Here's the place to share something from the week of Jan. 18th. Triumphs, trips, tragedies... You can cut and paste from your reflections or add something new. Can't wait to get the conversation started; it's hard seeing so little of you guys!
One of my students was in another class, and was getting picked on by another student. He used to go to Baldwin where he told another teacher, “You have no choice but to fight people” and where he had been suspended twice for fighting. Instead of losing his temper or hurting the student who was aggravating him, he warned him and remained calm. He told the student his background and explained that he could/would fight him, but he is as JMA to get a good education and make his family proud! ☺
I found it especially meaningful how passionate the teachers are about the grade level that they teach. I was able to talk to a few teachers of different grade levels, and each one of them said that they couldn’t imagine teaching an older or younger age group. My host teacher has had experience with all different age groups, and she has found that she really loves teaching younger students. This has made me realize the importance of figuring out what grade level I enjoy teaching the most, and this placement is allowing me to figure that out.
That is so true! You really have to experiment and spend time with different grades to get a feel for what you enjoy. Do you have any idea about which grade level your prefer right now? I know I love 10th graders!
Yes! This is so true!!! I realized over the winter break that I am a middle school teacher. I love it! I sometimes think I would like grade school but I enjoy the level of interaction and how the discussion can be intellectual in one moment and then silly in the next.
This week I talked to my kids in my 4th block about my edTPA and the permission slips that needed to be signed. They were all so kind and understanding about the whole thing. They made comments about how they were going to help me out in regards to recording. One student even said, “We got do what it takes to get you certified.” It was all very sweet. Through this experience learned that a relationship with your kids is almost just as important as the learning process. If there is no mutual respect and a relationship built between the teacher and the students, then teaching and learning will be that much more difficult. If I didn't get along with my kids, then filming for edTPA would be much harder.
A+ for knowing your students. It always blows my mind at how easy it is to get students to do things for you once they know you care. It really is all about being a "warm demander" and I am so glad that you are inspiring your students. Half the battle is believing in them, but the true challenge is having them believe in you in return. Keep up the great work! :)
Yes! same thing happened to me. They wanted to know about the class recordings so I explained edTPA and the class was like "don't worry we are gonna act like good students". BTW I sent out permission forms for edTPA my first day there. So far I have 5 back out of 32.
I think that's awesome! It's so refreshing to hear how thoughtful students can be. I haven't talked to my students yet about EdTPA, but I've decided which class it is going to be...Probably a group of Spanish I freshmen! I'm kind of nervous they'll act up just because that's my first impression of them, but I haven't been there long enough to really tell. I'm sure they're great kids like yours!
I totally agree Ms.Blanchard a positive, respectful, and mutual relationship is vital to motivating kids to learn. I heard one of my students say in class this is the 1st time i've liked all my teachers in one semester. That made me feel good despite my other feelings on a few things.
I really enjoy talking to the other teachers on my hall. I love being able to hear about their experiences and any advice they have. I think it is meaningful that they seem to really care about the profession and want to better it, as well as help me be the best teacher that I can be. I learned something about myself today. I am feeling less confident with these seniors than I was with the middle schoolers. I’m not sure if it’s because I’ve been out of a classroom for quite a while now so I’ve lost my mojo, or if I actually work better with middle schoolers. I’m hoping to have more insight on this in the next few weeks.
I am really glad that you are forming great relationships with other teacher colleagues. Honestly, I do not think it matters where you teach: you can always consult those teachers who you now know and love in the future and collaboration is so valuable. Because my heart is in middle grades, I cannot stress enough how important it is to find a grade level(s) you know and love. Your doubts will likely be remedied as you take over the classroom; however, do not ever be afraid to go with your gut. Either way, you are going to be a GREAT teacher.
I also really enjoy talking with other teachers! It's a bit weird for me though, because I went to the school I'm at so I still view them as being "above" me, yet they treat me as a collegue. I found that I am super passionate about politics and kind of want to start a teacher's lobbyist-type group because its ridiculous that the people who make decisions about education have CLEARLY never read any educational research. And as far as your comfort level, I say give it a little of time and you will see if its the fit for you or not.
Numero uno piece of advice (as we spoke) in getting into a new career is asking questions from peers. And that doesn't necessarily mean they are always right. Cultivate the ones you believe in and toss out the others. I was too shy to do it at your age. So I piled into construction plans, gained confidence, asked the right people the right questions and it was up from there. We have confidence having taught and with the knowledge gained so it's a lot easier. But I'm glad you're on it and keep it up! Plus you tie a rope to the right person and you can learn their secrets to success. The most amazing thing in life/work is most people LOVE telling you how awesome they are. So asking questions from the right people isn't something to be nervous about, they welcome it w/ open arms. Unless busy ...
It is wonderful having the support of veteran teachers! You can always reach higher when you have someone giving you a boost. As for the uncertainty with grade level, just know that you are not alone. When I went in to this program, I was very certain that I was going to be a high school teacher. After our fall placements, however, I just knew that I was meant to be in middle school. And now that I am in a different middle school, I can't help thinking that maybe I had it right the first time with high school. Every school is so different. Anyway, just know that you're not the only one feeling that way!
I felt very similar when I was at the high school. I was also less confident with them. I just realize that my interaction with students is geared more towards younger ages. Keep in mind that we are all emerging teachers though. So some feelings of discomfort may be coming from the fact that we are still growing/learning. Your feeling may just be growing pains :)
Middle schoolers are truly as passionate and emotional as everyone talks about, however my highs for the week include assisting students in identifying ways in which they can become more confident and be able to defend their decisions (in and outside of the visual arts classroom). Too often a student would say phrases like “I can’t” or “I don’t know how”, as a cop out for not trying. My host teacher emphasizes the student’s needs for coping skills, respect for authority and their peers, and skills regarding studying and literacy. This is evidenced by the 8th, 7th, and 6th grade visual arts classes, as there are definite gaps in spelling, paying attention to detail, and metacognitive skills. During this next week I will begin to teach the 6th graders, and will expose them to successful artists who worked persistently, modeled creativity and divergent thinking, and exhibited mastery of skills and techniques in both the visual arts and their written accounts of art production.
I hear my freshmen class say those kinds of things all the time too! I think it's great what you're planning on teaching and what you host teacher reinforces and emphasizes in her classroom! You'll do great!
Today I learned about a student who takes medication for adhd (in combination with something else, not sure yet) but forgets to take his medication more often than not. He is actually more interesting and fun when off his medication and even when he is on it he has trouble focusing, it seems to just calm him down and make him seem almost like a zombie. I will call this boy John and try to keep track of his mood/behavior changes because I think it will be a good way to learn about how to help students who struggle with ADHD.
I think this is great. I have a few students with ADHD too. I've been keeping track of one boy who is extra extra quiet. He struggles so much with everything. Im not sure why his behavior is like that. I'm going to ask to see his IEP. But I like how your taking time to learn about and help the students who struggle.
This is an example as to why I want to get into child psychology. There's a student who can't stand taking her med's in my class. Her mother came by to ensure she took her Rx, and as her daughter's head was in her crumpled sweatshirt hearing about her shortcomings while crying since she hadn’t taken them for two days. Her best interests were what mom, teach, et al had in mind but SHE was only left confused and shaken. Does this child need to be medicated? Is that the easy way out? Are there other options? I believe there are. Ps – you are missed @ ECGC
Sometimes it is okay to just throw the plan out the window. After the vocabulary test today, the students were not excited to talk about writing, much less write, so I used that energy and considered it. I let them do reading workshop for most of the period and then to ensure they were still on track with the ideas/concepts we have been working on, I implemented the “snowball” strategy at the end of class and let the students get in a brief kinesthetic brain break (which was AWESOME on a Friday). As I look over the crumpled pieces of paper with the student answers, I can tell you exactly who understands how to write an argument and what steps it takes. I can also tell you who is actively engaged and who is not. Too cool! I was focusing on experimenting today. I experimented and I experimented A LOT. The best part: the students loved it and they do not even notice that I am experimenting most of the time. What I love the most: the students do not think I talk to just be talking, so they often love when I am talking.
Side Note: Why do veteran teachers focus so heavily on the negative? Discipline is so UGH.
I feel like a lot of teachers who resort in negative discipline do it with students who they don't have a strong relationship with. Negative discipline is a defense mechanism. This is another reason why building positive relationships with students is so imperative.
I think it is really difficult for veteran teachers to see any possibility than just discipline. I will say this however, I was really impressed by teacher today in terms of discipline and what not. I had this student who refused to do his work, even after I had instructed the whole class, and then spoke to him personally and he still refused and started acting in a way that made other students laugh (so obviously he distracted everyone). She told me afterwards that she told him: "I don't know why you are acting like this, it isn't you. You are way too smart of a young man to be acting like this and I expect better of you." She also went on to remind him that it isn't his job to make everyone laugh--so in other words stop being a class clown. And I was even more impressed when he came back in class and got right to work.
One of my students today asked me to read a poem that she wrote. I was touched that she trusted me enough to look at something so personal. In addition, I was very pleased when she asked me to provide criticism instead of just asking if it was “good” or if I “liked it.” I thought that it was very mature of her, and it was a wonderful indication of how she wanted to grow and learn. It reminded me of what we have been learning this year concerning encouraging students to learn for learning's sake. This poem wasn't an assignment for a class, or in anyway affiliated with school, but this student sought out a teacher so that she could learn something for herself. It warmed my heart to see someone so willing to stretch themselves.
Yesterday I found it meaningful when a student grabbed my hand and as I was walking by her desk and said, "You love me don't you Ms K?" I said, "Of course it do!" and squeezed her hand The best part about this was that I had just finished reading her journal about what she did over christmas break and in it she expressed that she was going through some family issues and wanted everything to "fall back into place." I knew she needed to hear that someone loved her. After reading all of the journals I learned just how much the students trust me and Mrs. Burt with the things going on on their lives, a lot of them had no problem expressing issues going on with friends or at home. Because we are working on poetry I focused on teaching my kids to think out side of the box. I saw two girls "ahh-haa" moments when they realized "Beat. beat, Drum" is about the civil war. As far as great teaching goes, I did a lot of continuous checking for understanding. From all answer techniques to tracking.
Aw that is so sweet. I wish i had a way like journaling to get to know my kids better. I think im going to put some semi-personal questions on my pre-assessment so that I can understand them better.
My teacher actually only has them journal on the first day of each semester and I love that because it is much more genuine than making them journal everyday or even weekly.
Go Ms. K! The journals that students turn in are so interesting. I think this is a skill we should continue to teach because they get to be themselves completely in this way and I am happy that she opened up to you.
I have so many students y'all. Over the five classes, there are 170 students. I am trying so hard to learn all their names but it is very difficult. What I thought was awesome this week was how eager my students were to show me their work. They had to draw a picture depicting certain sentences in French and they were so eager for me to look at what they did. And some of them are so talented! I'm struggling, however, with a student who is kind of different. Her behavior strikes me, and the other students, as odd. What i'm struggling with is not visibly reacting to the things she does. Help!
Just react as though you care for her, so any outbursts or whatnot, ignore when need be and react appropriately if she gets too much out of hand. Not sure what her behavior is, so it is hard to give advice on exactly what you should do. Just remember you are to be above it all, but still care. Also don't let your make fun of or laugh at her. I hope that helps, you've probably already thought of this, or it may not even apply! haha
You may need to talk to her one on one that typically helps. Or make a random stupid joke relating to something you have noticed she takes interests in. There is no way I could learn that make names.
I wanted my students to know I cared, so this is my answer to question number 1 for today: It was especially meaningful to me when I got to read out a very personal “letter” to my 3rd period. Even if they could care less, it mattered to me. Here is what I said to them: I realize I came in as an outsider, totally new to you and to teaching. But I am oh so grateful to be here with you, all of you. You realize, y'all will go down in my history as the first class that I've taught. The first class that I will remember for the rest of my life. I know there's been moments where I haven't been your favorite person, and as your teacher that's liable to happen--my goal isn't to ensure you like me every single day, my goal is to educate you, all of you, to the best of my abilities. But I want you to all be sure of one thing: no matter how much you frustrate me, how much you dislike me, or how much you hate history--all I want for you is to succeed. I want you to be successful in this class and in your life. Now successful may have different definitions for everyone, but I want you to be able to look back on your life and be grateful for where life has taken you. This may seem too deep/philosophical/corny for a history teacher, but my utmost desire to make a difference. And I've known since I was a little girl, it would be by teaching high school history. You may think I'm often nagging you or maybe even disappointed in you, but it's only because I've seen what you can do when you give it your best shot and therefore expect nothing less.
Deep Kinsey. Very deep. I think about almost every single day how I want to start my first day when I have my own classroom. I've written like a billion scripts for that day too. Saying something like this is exactly the type of tone I want to set. Bravo
Kinsey, Shamiah is right this is DEEP, "you will go down in my history." Yes, that is what students need to know and eventually feel. I am proud of you for being so personal with them.
I have a student in my class who is an aspiring rapper. I think the beautiful thing that has occurred in this class was the fact that he has fallen in love with writing and he is using what we are reading in the class to his raps. I know society would frown upon this but he is using vocabulary terms from the stories, he is using character names in the story, and other artifacts from the story. I am so honored to have him in my class because I see him falling in love with writing.
To see this light bulb go off in him is amazing and is the light I want to in all my students.
January 20 Today I figured out how to use the SMART board. Their system is outdated but the purpose is served. I think the use of technology in the classroom is good. But some teachers are not fully trained on the subject. I think they are needed in the classroom and can be extremely useful.
That is so amazing about the student who loves writing! It really inspires me. I love how he can take what you are learning and use it in a personal way. That is our goal!! Also, about the SMARTboard, it is definitely good to realize that some of us will be entering schools next year that may not be as up to date as some of schools we are in now. So as we do our lessons we need to keep in mind that some of the technology may be different.
Dr. Greer was correct. Knowing your way around the smart board is a huge plus. Your EC kiddos were saying "whoah" and what not with all of the things in the presentation. Even the balloon pops or using the eraser to get the answer. Ps - I don't think society would frown on that at all. Or at least I hope not.
Today there was a fight in the hall way. I just think about how difficult of a position fights put everyone in. I wish the students could see how the situation looks. But as a teacher do you want to put yourself in harms way because as a 5 foot woman I can tell you that I am not intervening. I think this is the purpose of the campus police. There were 3 fights at once in the same hallway! How?
I don't know how there could be that many in the same hallway. but that is a tough position to be in! What did you do when you noticed there were fights going on?
I think instead of trying to intervene (because that puts you in a dangerous position) maybe try to separate the students rushing to watch! It may help whoever get to the fight to break it up faster! I know students usually try to create a barricade around to watch and video; without the audience it could be easier to break up and settle.
The biggest thing about today was that I taught all day. I did not know this nor did I know what I was teaching until about five minutes before class, so I think I did surprisingly well coming up with stuff right off the top of my head. Today was a practice in improvisation! My teacher told me to run the class today, which I was more than willing to do, and when I asked her what we were doing for the day, she told me we would take the vocabulary quiz, go over homework, talk about hooks, topic sentences, and thesis, and then take a pop quiz over hooks. That was all I got for instruction, and with five minutes to plan, I think I came up with a fairly organized process. The vocabulary quiz was online, so I had no impact on that, however, for going over homework, I knew that I did not want to just read out the answer. I had to find a way to get everyone involved, so I decided to use hand signals. We were practicing subject-verb agreement, so I had students hold up their pointer finger if the verb should be singular and their whole hand in a high-five if it was plural. I would then ask students specifically what the answer was. If the students were split on if it was singular or plural, I randomly chose two students to present their argument. The students then voted on which one was right, and they always ended up figuring it out. Next, we came to the discussion of hooks, topic sentences, and thesis. I knew the last thing I wanted to do was lecture at the students, so on the spot I decided to have the students create a chart, with one column for hook, one column for topic sentence, and one column for thesis. I then had them get in pairs and had them discuss questions, like “What is a hook? What are its characteristics?” And write it down on their charts. Once they discussed, I randomly called on students to share what they had written and had them write down their ideas on the whiteboard for everyone to see. Once we completed this for hook and topic sentence, I had them get in their pairs to discuss the difference between hooks and topic sentences. Once they discussed in their group, I then had them share their answers. I also did the same thing for topic sentence and thesis, which was much harder for the students to distinguish, but all classes eventually found the answer. I am just so glad I had Think-Pair-Share to rely on! I felt I did pretty well considering that I was just winging it and had no time to create a real game plan. I hate being unprepared, but at least I know I can fake it beautifully.
That is amazing Hillary!! Good job! I probably would have freaked out if that happened to me, so hats off to you, lady! I think it's great that you found ways to constantly have your students engaged, and stayed away from lecturing. Everything we've learned seemed to really come in handy!
Oh I was definitely freaking out in my head, but I knew I had to stay as calm as possible and just keep swimming! It is certainly a trial by fire; I just wish I had some preparation time to put together something really engaging for the students.
Today was vocabulary quiz day in all art classes. In each class we have a few students who have accommodations when quiz/test taking. My host teacher asked me to take those students to a separate room and read the questions to them. I feel like some of the students don’t like this and others are grateful for the help. I’m guessing the ones that don’t like the “separate room for test taking” is because they don’t want the other students to see that they need the extra help. Maybe there is a different way we could have handled this. Find a way that meets the accommodations and makes the students feel comfortable.
The students not only talk to my host teacher to answer the questions she prompts, they actually discuss the poetry: rhyme scheme, summary, symbolism, ect. Something I heard today in one of the groups while working on answering the questions they were given: “I think Whitman uses drums because drums are so loud and you can't get them out of your head, you kind of can’t hear anything else when the drums are rolling. War is kind of the same thing; when it’s right in front of you, you can’t hear anything else around you. It’s all you see, all you hear, you can't get away from it.” Y'all, they actually understand what we're saying, and COMPREHENDING. This made me so happy.
Also, I'm trying to play more of a teaching role as opposed to observing role with students... can anyone give me advice on how to insert myself more into a teaching role where my students realize they can ask me their questions too?
I hand wrote all my stuff sort of journal style so I’ll sum them up in one post, albeit late. I had an amazing week. The funny thing is how each day just immediately became better and better. The kids are responding so well. The highlight was one of our student’s grandmother often will sit in with us in class because she wants to know everything going on with her granddaughter, lesson plans, is she keeping up, etc. She also meets with us often in the mornings to sort of get updates. It’s really amazing. Anyway, we were talking about Gandhi throughout the week and she asked two times if she could give her perspective. Her thoughts were so intertwined with the lesson we were trying to engage within the students, it was perfect. Having an older black woman tell about her own stories growing up in the south, and recalling how MLK Jr. was mostly inspired by Gandhi’s teachings. How non-violence was the answer not only from a moral perspective, but the simple fact those in poverty can’t fight against the gov’t with guns and violence, because it’d be a losing battle. How’s that for a connection? She’s such a wonderful woman and provides insight and experiences myself or my host can not since we lived in very different times and in different worlds if you will. Sure, MLK is a hero to all of us, but we weren’t around for his teachings. She was. That’s perspective. That’s history.
That is so awesome to have someone like her visiting frequently in your class. Even though most schools place many barriers to having family visitors in the classroom I think they are just as important as any other factor in the school when it comes to motivating students and reaching student achievement. It goes along with my motto of it takes a village to raise a child. We cannot take back our schools with out the community/family support.
It's awesome that in teaching history, you're getting to learn history too! Don't discredit yourself, though, you have your own history that these kids don't know about either. I didn't realize until my placement last semester when we discussed 9/11; I was young when it happened, but these kids weren't even alive! Your perspective and your life is a part of history for them too!
1. I found many things meaningful this week in addition to many things not so meaningful. One of the most meaningful things I discovered this week was that despite the hand we are sometimes dealt there is always at least one good deck in the stack. These words are spoken from someone that doesn’t play cards. This week I issued my first unit quiz which was very easy. I expected most of the kids to pass it because I used all of the different learning styles mentioned earlier in the program from Lemov Pepper Techniques, to Vygotsky pairing with a more knowledgeable other and there were still some students that failed. I looked at the data of what questions the students missed most and asked myself what could I have done different to made sure the students learned the material. One of the students that transferred into my class a week after the semester started scored a 55 and she came after school for additional help and I was so happy that she scored an 85 on the retake.
Hey I know I'm a little early posting but the next one isn't up yet and I won't be by my computer later so here is my entry for Week 2: 1/25-1/29
1/27: I got to teach today and I was amazing. I watched and listened to my teacher explain and teach the assignment (third period is a little behind so their activity is the one that the other two classes did yesterday). I walked around helping students, answering their questions and going over a couple definitions they had problems with. At the end of the period when it was time to go over the responses, I got to teach! I went through the assignment with the students and discussed their findings in the spirituals. It was an amazing feeling! I’m so grateful that I went out of my comfort zone and acted as a teacher in the classroom! Today I learned that I sweat a lot when I get nervous. I learned that I’m a lot more knowledgeable than I realized; I know more than I know that I know (does that make sense?). When they asked me questions, I knew the answer and could explain the reasoning behind them. That was one of my teaching fears—not being knowledgeable enough to answer their questions. I obviously don’t know everything, but I know enough and I know my content!
I feel the same way when Im teaching. I get nervous too. I've noticed it gets better the more you do it. When I don't know answers to their questions I always tell them "that's a really good question" "Let's figure out the answer"
In one class I did a more interactive lesson with the students. I think they enjoyed it because its something different from what my host teacher does. I feel like I need to work on getting more students interested. I had most of the class on board but there where a few that did not want to participate no matter how much I asked them to. I’m having hard time with students who act like this. They will literally tell me “I’m not doing anything in here” “there is nothing you can do to make me do it”
This way my epic failed attempt at CPS. My focus was to reframe her ability to speak boldly. She had a look on her face like she knew why I called her in the hall so I asked her if she knew why I asked her to come speak with me. She shrugged her shoulders. I said, “Well actually, I called you in the hall to thank you.” She then started to look really confused. I continued, “Thank you for trying to control your behavior. (I know that she can get a lot worse) I know it can be difficult to not have your teacher here. I understand how difficult it can be to adjust to a sudden change in routine. It is difficult to accept someone new as the ‘teacher’.” Her body language showed that she did not care to have this conversation and she began to say, “Ok I’ll be quiet. Can I go back in the room now?” I expressed my concern for her inability to listen and follow directions. If she does not learn to develop self-control and follow simple directions, it will be very difficult for her to keep a job.
Holiday Palace It is a website to participate in gaming, internet gambling. Guaranteed by bettors across South East Asia as the best gambling site. The rules of service for more than 11 years until the contract was expert in accordance with the provisions of Cambodia. We are so full that it will take care of all of us to a new dimension of investment. You will never touch the place before. We have a technology system that comes in the form of live broadcasting via satellite from the gambling casino in front of the real estate. Go directly to your mobile phone or computer monitor. Make a bettor like in our service model is rest approx. The picture and the sound of the real life is about. We have a great game of risk, over 400 hits. It's great that anybody who is keen to open a new profitable gambling game with your own. We have well-trained clerks who are available 24 hours a day at the website. Gclub
One of my students was in another class, and was getting picked on by another student. He used to go to Baldwin where he told another teacher, “You have no choice but to fight people” and where he had been suspended twice for fighting. Instead of losing his temper or hurting the student who was aggravating him, he warned him and remained calm. He told the student his background and explained that he could/would fight him, but he is as JMA to get a good education and make his family proud! ☺
ReplyDeleteThat's awesome! I'm so glad everything worked out! We actually had a fight today at BHS that ended up in my classroom! Scary!
DeleteWoah! I am with Allison! That is super intense. I am glad that they are fostering a growth mindset in the student at JMA.
DeleteOh wow! Congrats to that young man for being so mature!
DeleteI found it especially meaningful how passionate the teachers are about the grade level that they teach. I was able to talk to a few teachers of different grade levels, and each one of them said that they couldn’t imagine teaching an older or younger age group. My host teacher has had experience with all different age groups, and she has found that she really loves teaching younger students. This has made me realize the importance of figuring out what grade level I enjoy teaching the most, and this placement is allowing me to figure that out.
ReplyDeleteThat is so true! You really have to experiment and spend time with different grades to get a feel for what you enjoy. Do you have any idea about which grade level your prefer right now? I know I love 10th graders!
DeleteAt this point I'm leaning towards middle school, I think they are really fun to work with!
DeleteYes! This is so true!!! I realized over the winter break that I am a middle school teacher. I love it! I sometimes think I would like grade school but I enjoy the level of interaction and how the discussion can be intellectual in one moment and then silly in the next.
DeleteThis week I talked to my kids in my 4th block about my edTPA and the permission slips that needed to be signed. They were all so kind and understanding about the whole thing. They made comments about how they were going to help me out in regards to recording. One student even said, “We got do what it takes to get you certified.” It was all very sweet. Through this experience learned that a relationship with your kids is almost just as important as the learning process. If there is no mutual respect and a relationship built between the teacher and the students, then teaching and learning will be that much more difficult. If I didn't get along with my kids, then filming for edTPA would be much harder.
ReplyDeleteA+ for knowing your students. It always blows my mind at how easy it is to get students to do things for you once they know you care. It really is all about being a "warm demander" and I am so glad that you are inspiring your students. Half the battle is believing in them, but the true challenge is having them believe in you in return. Keep up the great work! :)
DeleteThat is so funny and sweet! I'm glad that your kids are willing to help you out as much as they can! You are so cool ;)
DeleteYes! same thing happened to me. They wanted to know about the class recordings so I explained edTPA and the class was like "don't worry we are gonna act like good students". BTW I sent out permission forms for edTPA my first day there. So far I have 5 back out of 32.
DeleteI think that's awesome! It's so refreshing to hear how thoughtful students can be. I haven't talked to my students yet about EdTPA, but I've decided which class it is going to be...Probably a group of Spanish I freshmen! I'm kind of nervous they'll act up just because that's my first impression of them, but I haven't been there long enough to really tell. I'm sure they're great kids like yours!
DeleteI totally agree Ms.Blanchard a positive, respectful, and mutual relationship is vital to motivating kids to learn. I heard one of my students say in class this is the 1st time i've liked all my teachers in one semester. That made me feel good despite my other feelings on a few things.
DeleteI really enjoy talking to the other teachers on my hall. I love being able to hear about their experiences and any advice they have. I think it is meaningful that they seem to really care about the profession and want to better it, as well as help me be the best teacher that I can be. I learned something about myself today. I am feeling less confident with these seniors than I was with the middle schoolers. I’m not sure if it’s because I’ve been out of a classroom for quite a while now so I’ve lost my mojo, or if I actually work better with middle schoolers. I’m hoping to have more insight on this in the next few weeks.
ReplyDeleteI am really glad that you are forming great relationships with other teacher colleagues. Honestly, I do not think it matters where you teach: you can always consult those teachers who you now know and love in the future and collaboration is so valuable. Because my heart is in middle grades, I cannot stress enough how important it is to find a grade level(s) you know and love. Your doubts will likely be remedied as you take over the classroom; however, do not ever be afraid to go with your gut. Either way, you are going to be a GREAT teacher.
DeleteI also really enjoy talking with other teachers! It's a bit weird for me though, because I went to the school I'm at so I still view them as being "above" me, yet they treat me as a collegue. I found that I am super passionate about politics and kind of want to start a teacher's lobbyist-type group because its ridiculous that the people who make decisions about education have CLEARLY never read any educational research. And as far as your comfort level, I say give it a little of time and you will see if its the fit for you or not.
DeleteNumero uno piece of advice (as we spoke) in getting into a new career is asking questions from peers. And that doesn't necessarily mean they are always right. Cultivate the ones you believe in and toss out the others. I was too shy to do it at your age. So I piled into construction plans, gained confidence, asked the right people the right questions and it was up from there. We have confidence having taught and with the knowledge gained so it's a lot easier. But I'm glad you're on it and keep it up! Plus you tie a rope to the right person and you can learn their secrets to success. The most amazing thing in life/work is most people LOVE telling you how awesome they are. So asking questions from the right people isn't something to be nervous about, they welcome it w/ open arms. Unless busy ...
DeleteIt is wonderful having the support of veteran teachers! You can always reach higher when you have someone giving you a boost. As for the uncertainty with grade level, just know that you are not alone. When I went in to this program, I was very certain that I was going to be a high school teacher. After our fall placements, however, I just knew that I was meant to be in middle school. And now that I am in a different middle school, I can't help thinking that maybe I had it right the first time with high school. Every school is so different. Anyway, just know that you're not the only one feeling that way!
DeleteI felt very similar when I was at the high school. I was also less confident with them. I just realize that my interaction with students is geared more towards younger ages. Keep in mind that we are all emerging teachers though. So some feelings of discomfort may be coming from the fact that we are still growing/learning. Your feeling may just be growing pains :)
DeleteMiddle schoolers are truly as passionate and emotional as everyone talks about, however my highs for the week include assisting students in identifying ways in which they can become more confident and be able to defend their decisions (in and outside of the visual arts classroom). Too often a student would say phrases like “I can’t” or “I don’t know how”, as a cop out for not trying. My host teacher emphasizes the student’s needs for coping skills, respect for authority and their peers, and skills regarding studying and literacy. This is evidenced by the 8th, 7th, and 6th grade visual arts classes, as there are definite gaps in spelling, paying attention to detail, and metacognitive skills. During this next week I will begin to teach the 6th graders, and will expose them to successful artists who worked persistently, modeled creativity and divergent thinking, and exhibited mastery of skills and techniques in both the visual arts and their written accounts of art production.
ReplyDeleteI hear my freshmen class say those kinds of things all the time too! I think it's great what you're planning on teaching and what you host teacher reinforces and emphasizes in her classroom! You'll do great!
DeleteToday I learned about a student who takes medication for adhd (in combination with something else, not sure yet) but forgets to take his medication more often than not. He is actually more interesting and fun when off his medication and even when he is on it he has trouble focusing, it seems to just calm him down and make him seem almost like a zombie. I will call this boy John and try to keep track of his mood/behavior changes because I think it will be a good way to learn about how to help students who struggle with ADHD.
ReplyDeleteI think this is great. I have a few students with ADHD too. I've been keeping track of one boy who is extra extra quiet. He struggles so much with everything. Im not sure why his behavior is like that. I'm going to ask to see his IEP. But I like how your taking time to learn about and help the students who struggle.
DeleteThis is an example as to why I want to get into child psychology. There's a student who can't stand taking her med's in my class. Her mother came by to ensure she took her Rx, and as her daughter's head was in her crumpled sweatshirt hearing about her shortcomings while crying since she hadn’t taken them for two days. Her best interests were what mom, teach, et al had in mind but SHE was only left confused and shaken. Does this child need to be medicated? Is that the easy way out? Are there other options? I believe there are.
DeletePs – you are missed @ ECGC
Sometimes it is okay to just throw the plan out the window. After the vocabulary test today, the students were not excited to talk about writing, much less write, so I used that energy and considered it. I let them do reading workshop for most of the period and then to ensure they were still on track with the ideas/concepts we have been working on, I implemented the “snowball” strategy at the end of class and let the students get in a brief kinesthetic brain break (which was AWESOME on a Friday). As I look over the crumpled pieces of paper with the student answers, I can tell you exactly who understands how to write an argument and what steps it takes. I can also tell you who is actively engaged and who is not. Too cool!
ReplyDeleteI was focusing on experimenting today. I experimented and I experimented A LOT. The best part: the students loved it and they do not even notice that I am experimenting most of the time. What I love the most: the students do not think I talk to just be talking, so they often love when I am talking.
Side Note: Why do veteran teachers focus so heavily on the negative? Discipline is so UGH.
I feel like a lot of teachers who resort in negative discipline do it with students who they don't have a strong relationship with. Negative discipline is a defense mechanism. This is another reason why building positive relationships with students is so imperative.
DeleteI think it is really difficult for veteran teachers to see any possibility than just discipline. I will say this however, I was really impressed by teacher today in terms of discipline and what not. I had this student who refused to do his work, even after I had instructed the whole class, and then spoke to him personally and he still refused and started acting in a way that made other students laugh (so obviously he distracted everyone). She told me afterwards that she told him: "I don't know why you are acting like this, it isn't you. You are way too smart of a young man to be acting like this and I expect better of you." She also went on to remind him that it isn't his job to make everyone laugh--so in other words stop being a class clown. And I was even more impressed when he came back in class and got right to work.
DeleteOne of my students today asked me to read a poem that she wrote. I was touched that she trusted me enough to look at something so personal. In addition, I was very pleased when she asked me to provide criticism instead of just asking if it was “good” or if I “liked it.” I thought that it was very mature of her, and it was a wonderful indication of how she wanted to grow and learn. It reminded me of what we have been learning this year concerning encouraging students to learn for learning's sake. This poem wasn't an assignment for a class, or in anyway affiliated with school, but this student sought out a teacher so that she could learn something for herself. It warmed my heart to see someone so willing to stretch themselves.
ReplyDeleteYesterday I found it meaningful when a student grabbed my hand and as I was walking by her desk and said, "You love me don't you Ms K?" I said, "Of course it do!" and squeezed her hand The best part about this was that I had just finished reading her journal about what she did over christmas break and in it she expressed that she was going through some family issues and wanted everything to "fall back into place." I knew she needed to hear that someone loved her. After reading all of the journals I learned just how much the students trust me and Mrs. Burt with the things going on on their lives, a lot of them had no problem expressing issues going on with friends or at home. Because we are working on poetry I focused on teaching my kids to think out side of the box. I saw two girls "ahh-haa" moments when they realized "Beat. beat, Drum" is about the civil war. As far as great teaching goes, I did a lot of continuous checking for understanding. From all answer techniques to tracking.
ReplyDeleteAw that is so sweet. I wish i had a way like journaling to get to know my kids better. I think im going to put some semi-personal questions on my pre-assessment so that I can understand them better.
DeleteMy teacher actually only has them journal on the first day of each semester and I love that because it is much more genuine than making them journal everyday or even weekly.
DeleteGo Ms. K! The journals that students turn in are so interesting. I think this is a skill we should continue to teach because they get to be themselves completely in this way and I am happy that she opened up to you.
DeleteI have so many students y'all. Over the five classes, there are 170 students. I am trying so hard to learn all their names but it is very difficult. What I thought was awesome this week was how eager my students were to show me their work. They had to draw a picture depicting certain sentences in French and they were so eager for me to look at what they did. And some of them are so talented! I'm struggling, however, with a student who is kind of different. Her behavior strikes me, and the other students, as odd. What i'm struggling with is not visibly reacting to the things she does. Help!
ReplyDeleteJust react as though you care for her, so any outbursts or whatnot, ignore when need be and react appropriately if she gets too much out of hand. Not sure what her behavior is, so it is hard to give advice on exactly what you should do. Just remember you are to be above it all, but still care. Also don't let your make fun of or laugh at her. I hope that helps, you've probably already thought of this, or it may not even apply! haha
DeleteYou may need to talk to her one on one that typically helps. Or make a random stupid joke relating to something you have noticed she takes interests in. There is no way I could learn that make names.
DeleteWell clearly i cant give advise on this because my facial expressions are awful but you could use CPS to better understand her.
DeleteI would like some advice on this too. It's so hard to not react when a students behaves in an "odd" way. I just smile and nod as I walk way.
DeleteI wanted my students to know I cared, so this is my answer to question number 1 for today: It was especially meaningful to me when I got to read out a very personal “letter” to my 3rd period. Even if they could care less, it mattered to me. Here is what I said to them: I realize I came in as an outsider, totally new to you and to teaching. But I am oh so grateful to be here with you, all of you. You realize, y'all will go down in my history as the first class that I've taught. The first class that I will remember for the rest of my life. I know there's been moments where I haven't been your favorite person, and as your teacher that's liable to happen--my goal isn't to ensure you like me every single day, my goal is to educate you, all of you, to the best of my abilities. But I want you to all be sure of one thing: no matter how much you frustrate me, how much you dislike me, or how much you hate history--all I want for you is to succeed. I want you to be successful in this class and in your life. Now successful may have different definitions for everyone, but I want you to be able to look back on your life and be grateful for where life has taken you. This may seem too deep/philosophical/corny for a history teacher, but my utmost desire to make a difference. And I've known since I was a little girl, it would be by teaching high school history. You may think I'm often nagging you or maybe even disappointed in you, but it's only because I've seen what you can do when you give it your best shot and therefore expect nothing less.
ReplyDeleteDeep Kinsey. Very deep. I think about almost every single day how I want to start my first day when I have my own classroom. I've written like a billion scripts for that day too. Saying something like this is exactly the type of tone I want to set. Bravo
DeleteThank you Shamiah! I literally couldn't sleep last night until I wrote it.
DeleteKinsey, Shamiah is right this is DEEP, "you will go down in my history." Yes, that is what students need to know and eventually feel. I am proud of you for being so personal with them.
DeleteThank you Sheika! It was definitely nerve wracking, I was shaking the whole time, mouth went dry, and I almost teared up a time or two.
DeleteJanuary 19, 2016
ReplyDeleteI have a student in my class who is an aspiring rapper. I think the beautiful thing that has occurred in this class was the fact that he has fallen in love with writing and he is using what we are reading in the class to his raps. I know society would frown upon this but he is using vocabulary terms from the stories, he is using character names in the story, and other artifacts from the story. I am so honored to have him in my class because I see him falling in love with writing.
To see this light bulb go off in him is amazing and is the light I want to in all my students.
January 20
Today I figured out how to use the SMART board. Their system is outdated but the purpose is served. I think the use of technology in the classroom is good. But some teachers are not fully trained on the subject. I think they are needed in the classroom and can be extremely useful.
That is so amazing about the student who loves writing! It really inspires me. I love how he can take what you are learning and use it in a personal way. That is our goal!! Also, about the SMARTboard, it is definitely good to realize that some of us will be entering schools next year that may not be as up to date as some of schools we are in now. So as we do our lessons we need to keep in mind that some of the technology may be different.
DeleteDr. Greer was correct. Knowing your way around the smart board is a huge plus. Your EC kiddos were saying "whoah" and what not with all of the things in the presentation. Even the balloon pops or using the eraser to get the answer. Ps - I don't think society would frown on that at all. Or at least I hope not.
DeleteToday there was a fight in the hall way. I just think about how difficult of a position fights put everyone in. I wish the students could see how the situation looks. But as a teacher do you want to put yourself in harms way because as a 5 foot woman I can tell you that I am not intervening. I think this is the purpose of the campus police. There were 3 fights at once in the same hallway! How?
ReplyDeleteI don't know how there could be that many in the same hallway. but that is a tough position to be in! What did you do when you noticed there were fights going on?
DeleteI think instead of trying to intervene (because that puts you in a dangerous position) maybe try to separate the students rushing to watch! It may help whoever get to the fight to break it up faster! I know students usually try to create a barricade around to watch and video; without the audience it could be easier to break up and settle.
DeleteI am trying to post a picture of my journal for one of my days but it will not allow me to, can someone help?
ReplyDeleteSame I thought we could. aka why I hand wrote all mine.
DeleteThe biggest thing about today was that I taught all day. I did not know this nor did I know what I was teaching until about five minutes before class, so I think I did surprisingly well coming up with stuff right off the top of my head. Today was a practice in improvisation! My teacher told me to run the class today, which I was more than willing to do, and when I asked her what we were doing for the day, she told me we would take the vocabulary quiz, go over homework, talk about hooks, topic sentences, and thesis, and then take a pop quiz over hooks. That was all I got for instruction, and with five minutes to plan, I think I came up with a fairly organized process. The vocabulary quiz was online, so I had no impact on that, however, for going over homework, I knew that I did not want to just read out the answer. I had to find a way to get everyone involved, so I decided to use hand signals. We were practicing subject-verb agreement, so I had students hold up their pointer finger if the verb should be singular and their whole hand in a high-five if it was plural. I would then ask students specifically what the answer was. If the students were split on if it was singular or plural, I randomly chose two students to present their argument. The students then voted on which one was right, and they always ended up figuring it out. Next, we came to the discussion of hooks, topic sentences, and thesis. I knew the last thing I wanted to do was lecture at the students, so on the spot I decided to have the students create a chart, with one column for hook, one column for topic sentence, and one column for thesis. I then had them get in pairs and had them discuss questions, like “What is a hook? What are its characteristics?” And write it down on their charts. Once they discussed, I randomly called on students to share what they had written and had them write down their ideas on the whiteboard for everyone to see. Once we completed this for hook and topic sentence, I had them get in their pairs to discuss the difference between hooks and topic sentences. Once they discussed in their group, I then had them share their answers. I also did the same thing for topic sentence and thesis, which was much harder for the students to distinguish, but all classes eventually found the answer. I am just so glad I had Think-Pair-Share to rely on! I felt I did pretty well considering that I was just winging it and had no time to create a real game plan. I hate being unprepared, but at least I know I can fake it beautifully.
ReplyDeleteThat is amazing Hillary!! Good job! I probably would have freaked out if that happened to me, so hats off to you, lady! I think it's great that you found ways to constantly have your students engaged, and stayed away from lecturing. Everything we've learned seemed to really come in handy!
DeleteOh I was definitely freaking out in my head, but I knew I had to stay as calm as possible and just keep swimming! It is certainly a trial by fire; I just wish I had some preparation time to put together something really engaging for the students.
DeleteToday was vocabulary quiz day in all art classes. In each class we have a few students who have accommodations when quiz/test taking. My host teacher asked me to take those students to a separate room and read the questions to them. I feel like some of the students don’t like this and others are grateful for the help. I’m guessing the ones that don’t like the “separate room for test taking” is because they don’t want the other students to see that they need the extra help. Maybe there is a different way we could have handled this. Find a way that meets the accommodations and makes the students feel comfortable.
ReplyDeleteDo you have any ideas about how to meet the accommodations yet make them feel comfortable at the same time?
DeleteThe students not only talk to my host teacher to answer the questions she prompts, they actually discuss the poetry: rhyme scheme, summary, symbolism, ect. Something I heard today in one of the groups while working on answering the questions they were given: “I think Whitman uses drums because drums are so loud and you can't get them out of your head, you kind of can’t hear anything else when the drums are rolling. War is kind of the same thing; when it’s right in front of you, you can’t hear anything else around you. It’s all you see, all you hear, you can't get away from it.” Y'all, they actually understand what we're saying, and COMPREHENDING. This made me so happy.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I'm trying to play more of a teaching role as opposed to observing role with students... can anyone give me advice on how to insert myself more into a teaching role where my students realize they can ask me their questions too?
This comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI hand wrote all my stuff sort of journal style so I’ll sum them up in one post, albeit late. I had an amazing week. The funny thing is how each day just immediately became better and better. The kids are responding so well. The highlight was one of our student’s grandmother often will sit in with us in class because she wants to know everything going on with her granddaughter, lesson plans, is she keeping up, etc. She also meets with us often in the mornings to sort of get updates. It’s really amazing. Anyway, we were talking about Gandhi throughout the week and she asked two times if she could give her perspective. Her thoughts were so intertwined with the lesson we were trying to engage within the students, it was perfect. Having an older black woman tell about her own stories growing up in the south, and recalling how MLK Jr. was mostly inspired by Gandhi’s teachings. How non-violence was the answer not only from a moral perspective, but the simple fact those in poverty can’t fight against the gov’t with guns and violence, because it’d be a losing battle. How’s that for a connection? She’s such a wonderful woman and provides insight and experiences myself or my host can not since we lived in very different times and in different worlds if you will. Sure, MLK is a hero to all of us, but we weren’t around for his teachings. She was. That’s perspective. That’s history.
ReplyDeleteThat is so awesome to have someone like her visiting frequently in your class. Even though most schools place many barriers to having family visitors in the classroom I think they are just as important as any other factor in the school when it comes to motivating students and reaching student achievement. It goes along with my motto of it takes a village to raise a child. We cannot take back our schools with out the community/family support.
DeleteIt's awesome that in teaching history, you're getting to learn history too! Don't discredit yourself, though, you have your own history that these kids don't know about either. I didn't realize until my placement last semester when we discussed 9/11; I was young when it happened, but these kids weren't even alive! Your perspective and your life is a part of history for them too!
Delete1. I found many things meaningful this week in addition to many things not so meaningful. One of the most meaningful things I discovered this week was that despite the hand we are sometimes dealt there is always at least one good deck in the stack. These words are spoken from someone that doesn’t play cards. This week I issued my first unit quiz which was very easy. I expected most of the kids to pass it because I used all of the different learning styles mentioned earlier in the program from Lemov Pepper Techniques, to Vygotsky pairing with a more knowledgeable other and there were still some students that failed. I looked at the data of what questions the students missed most and asked myself what could I have done different to made sure the students learned the material. One of the students that transferred into my class a week after the semester started scored a 55 and she came after school for additional help and I was so happy that she scored an 85 on the retake.
ReplyDeleteThat's really interesting! What ideas have you come up with to help the students learn the material?
DeleteHey I know I'm a little early posting but the next one isn't up yet and I won't be by my computer later so here is my entry for Week 2: 1/25-1/29
ReplyDelete1/27: I got to teach today and I was amazing. I watched and listened to my teacher explain and teach the assignment (third period is a little behind so their activity is the one that the other two classes did yesterday). I walked around helping students, answering their questions and going over a couple definitions they had problems with. At the end of the period when it was time to go over the responses, I got to teach! I went through the assignment with the students and discussed their findings in the spirituals. It was an amazing feeling! I’m so grateful that I went out of my comfort zone and acted as a teacher in the classroom! Today I learned that I sweat a lot when I get nervous. I learned that I’m a lot more knowledgeable than I realized; I know more than I know that I know (does that make sense?). When they asked me questions, I knew the answer and could explain the reasoning behind them. That was one of my teaching fears—not being knowledgeable enough to answer their questions. I obviously don’t know everything, but I know enough and I know my content!
If anyone is willing to move this to the Second Week Reflections when that's made I'd greatly appreciate it!
DeleteI feel the same way when Im teaching. I get nervous too. I've noticed it gets better the more you do it. When I don't know answers to their questions I always tell them "that's a really good question" "Let's figure out the answer"
DeleteWEEK 2
ReplyDeleteIn one class I did a more interactive lesson with the students. I think they enjoyed it because its something different from what my host teacher does. I feel like I need to work on getting more students interested. I had most of the class on board but there where a few that did not want to participate no matter how much I asked them to. I’m having hard time with students who act like this. They will literally tell me “I’m not doing anything in here” “there is nothing you can do to make me do it”
UGHHHH!!!! What do I do!?
This way my epic failed attempt at CPS. My focus was to reframe her ability to speak boldly. She had a look on her face like she knew why I called her in the hall so I asked her if she knew why I asked her to come speak with me. She shrugged her shoulders. I said, “Well actually, I called you in the hall to thank you.” She then started to look really confused. I continued, “Thank you for trying to control your behavior. (I know that she can get a lot worse) I know it can be difficult to not have your teacher here. I understand how difficult it can be to adjust to a sudden change in routine. It is difficult to accept someone new as the ‘teacher’.” Her body language showed that she did not care to have this conversation and she began to say, “Ok I’ll be quiet. Can I go back in the room now?” I expressed my concern for her inability to listen and follow directions. If she does not learn to develop self-control and follow simple directions, it will be very difficult for her to keep a job.
ReplyDeleteRajasthan Gram Seva Bharti Hostel Warden Admit Card
ReplyDeleteMaharashtra Board 12th 10th Admit Card 2017
Punjab Board 10th 12th Permission letter 2017
Karnataka Board 12th 10th Admit Card 2017
Rajasthan Lab Assistant Admit card 2017
RBSE Board 12th 12th Admit card 2017
Odisha Board 12th Time Table 2017
NIOS 10th Exam Time Table 2017
Punjab Board 10th Class Datesheet 2017
JKBOSE 10th Time Table & Datesheet 2017
ReplyDeleteHP Board 10th Time Table 2017
Punjab Board 12th Time Table 2017
Rajasthan Board 12th Class Time Table 2017
ICSE 10th Datesheet 2017
HBSE 10th Datesheet 2017
MBSE HSLC Datesheet 2017
UPMSP HS Datesheet 2017
Superb post of "First Week Reflections!"
ReplyDeleteOnly Mcx Tips | Gold Tips Free Trial on Mobile
Playing the game online realistically.
ReplyDeleteHoliday Palace It is a website to participate in gaming, internet gambling. Guaranteed by bettors across South East Asia as the best gambling site. The rules of service for more than 11 years until the contract was expert in accordance with the provisions of Cambodia.
We are so full that it will take care of all of us to a new dimension of investment. You will never touch the place before. We have a technology system that comes in the form of live broadcasting via satellite from the gambling casino in front of the real estate. Go directly to your mobile phone or computer monitor. Make a bettor like in our service model is rest approx. The picture and the sound of the real life is about. We have a great game of risk, over 400 hits.
It's great that anybody who is keen to open a new profitable gambling game with your own. We have well-trained clerks who are available 24 hours a day at the website. Gclub