So the two day take over ended. Boy, was it a good one. I can take so many good things away from it. The first is that instead of wondering if I chose the right path, I now KNOW, and that feels so good. These past two weeks may have been strenuous at times, but coming home from school happy and proud of my students has made it worth every minute. I cannot put into words how much I learned from this experience. I know I will be a great teacher, and the elements I may be lacking in (mostly management) will catch up to the qualities that soar in due time.
Another thing I want to remember about this take over is what I used to teach my students. Technology was a big deal to them. The PowerPoint presentations, the music, all got the students invested in the topic. These days it is hard to keep their attention, but the PowerPoint slides WORK.
I wish I could fully explain to my students just how grateful I am. They were nice, respectful, and great to be around. For a class of seniors, I could not have had any better. Once I got over my reservations about my own knowledge, I was able to settle in, be myself, and teach like a person, not a robot. These students finished Frankenstein in 2 school weeks!!! That is stellar by anyone's standards! The scores on the test were mostly FANTASTIC! A few subpar scores, but I know I can't reach everyone no matter how hard I try.
One student I will forever remember.... I will not write their name, but he/she is so intelligent and definitely ready for college. It pained me to hear that he/she had a "D" in the class. I made a copy of their test and cannot believe this. The writing was clear and beautiful, I have to show it off to everyone. I really hope he/she passes the class. They really need to further their education. I know they have the skill for it.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Paradox..?
"If at first you don't succeed, try, try again."
"Craziness is doing the same thing multiple times and expecting a different result."
I gave these two conflicting clichés to my Seniors on Friday in relation to Shelley's Frankenstein.
What do you have to say about it?
"Craziness is doing the same thing multiple times and expecting a different result."
I gave these two conflicting clichés to my Seniors on Friday in relation to Shelley's Frankenstein.
What do you have to say about it?
Thursday, November 26, 2009
In the zone, Chief.
Tuesday was awesome, and it only strengthened my feelings that I have made the right choice in careers. I tried the different reading groups, and that seemed to work. I had to stop for some classroom management but not too often and with great success. The thing that made took it to the next level was the final activity that I had planned. We read chapter 4 of Frankenstein and learned that Victor stole the body parts from charnel-houses, or a vault use to store bones and bodies. So, what I did was print out different styles of bodies and put them into envelopes which served as our charnel-houses. The students then picked out a body part without looking. This made it so they would get legs that did not match torsos or arms. Any way, it went really well. Everyone was laughing at their messed up figures. It was fun. The only thing I would have done differently was to get more supplies. It took a really long time for everyone to get what they needed and tape the pieces together. But, all in all, it was great.
Monday, November 23, 2009
How much should we pay teachers?
Not sure to whom this originally belongs, but it is definitely worth a read:
"I, for one, am sick and tired of those high paid teachers. Their hefty salaries are driving up taxes, and they only work nine or ten months a year! It's time we put things in perspective and pay them for what they do....baby-sit! We can get that for less than minimum wage. That's right. I would give them $3.00 dollars an hour and only the hours they worked, not any of that silly planning time. That would be $19.50 a day (7:45AM to 4:00 PM with 45 min. off for lunch). Each parent should pay$19.50 a day for these teachers to baby-sit their children. Now, how many do they teach in a day... maybe 30? So that's 19.5 X 30 = $585.00 a day. But remember they only work180 days a year! I'm not going to pay them for any vacations. Let's see. . . that's $585 x 180 = $105,300. Hold on! My calculator must need batteries! What about those special teachers or the ones with master's degrees? Well, we could pay them minimum wage just to be fair. Round it off to $7.00 an hour. That would be $7 times 6-1/2 hours times 30 children times 180 days=$245,700.00 per year. Wait a minute, there is something wrong here!"
"I, for one, am sick and tired of those high paid teachers. Their hefty salaries are driving up taxes, and they only work nine or ten months a year! It's time we put things in perspective and pay them for what they do....baby-sit! We can get that for less than minimum wage. That's right. I would give them $3.00 dollars an hour and only the hours they worked, not any of that silly planning time. That would be $19.50 a day (7:45AM to 4:00 PM with 45 min. off for lunch). Each parent should pay$19.50 a day for these teachers to baby-sit their children. Now, how many do they teach in a day... maybe 30? So that's 19.5 X 30 = $585.00 a day. But remember they only work180 days a year! I'm not going to pay them for any vacations. Let's see. . . that's $585 x 180 = $105,300. Hold on! My calculator must need batteries! What about those special teachers or the ones with master's degrees? Well, we could pay them minimum wage just to be fair. Round it off to $7.00 an hour. That would be $7 times 6-1/2 hours times 30 children times 180 days=$245,700.00 per year. Wait a minute, there is something wrong here!"
Reading Aloud
I'd like to start off by saying that I am a big proponent of reading aloud in class. I think it serves a purpose and should be implemented more often. That being said, I had an experience just last week that made me re-think my stance. My 12th grade class is reading Frankenstein, and lucky me, I get to plan the unit out and get it done by December 10th. I have come to the conclusion that in order to make this deadline, reading must be done in class. Luckily for me, though, I get to teach in the block schedule so I have plenty of time. So, last Wednesday the class and I had just finished reading Letters 3 and 4, and I hear a student mutter that this was boring. Now, one of the things I had never hoped to hear was those words. Boring? Ughh. So, over the weekend I mulled it over. Along with some ideas from fellow teachers, I came to the conclusion to be upfront with the students. Today I asked them what they thought about reading in class. I got mixed reviews. Some like it, some do not, some like it only if I read. Unfortunately, I did not really get a firm stance on where to go with it. I have come to the conclusion that reading in class MUST take place in order for us to meet the deadline of finishing. There is no other way to comply unless I believe that the students will read 15 pages a night-- I'm fairly optimistic but I wouldn't put money on it.
Starting next week I will be doing reading groups. Those that want to read on their own can on one side of the room, those that want to read aloud with me will go to another side. Each group will be given the same amount of time to finish the reading and we will come together to discuss as a class. This does bring up an issue with class management but I think if I plan it right, I can position myself in between the two groups to make sure each group is on task. I believe this will be my solution and it won't be done everyday--just when there is a lot of reading that needs to be done.
I don't know. I'll see how this works and adapt as I go.
Starting next week I will be doing reading groups. Those that want to read on their own can on one side of the room, those that want to read aloud with me will go to another side. Each group will be given the same amount of time to finish the reading and we will come together to discuss as a class. This does bring up an issue with class management but I think if I plan it right, I can position myself in between the two groups to make sure each group is on task. I believe this will be my solution and it won't be done everyday--just when there is a lot of reading that needs to be done.
I don't know. I'll see how this works and adapt as I go.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Sad Conditions...
Forgive the overdue update. However, I am spurred into writing by a regretful situation. I am not sure if I should write about it. On one hand, it is part of being a teacher and the relationships I am building with students. On the other, I do not want to explicitly write about a student's life. Therefore, I will try to maintain anonymity for my student. Forgive me if it is vague.
One of the most challenging and tragic situations I can think of for a teacher to experience has already happened to me. I had heard about the car crash that occurred very early Sunday morning, I heard the last name of the victims, but did not make the connection until my CT told me why She would not be in class today. I was shocked. Hearing one of my students was involved in a brutal accident at the hands of an allegedly intoxicated driver made me confused. How am I supposed to feel? I should probably be strong. Students look to teachers to be a foundation in this situation. Still, I can not help but to feel such a great remorse for what my students must be going through. And the for the student involved. To lose members of your family who were in the car with you, yet be in so much physical pain. My thoughts are with her.
One of the most challenging and tragic situations I can think of for a teacher to experience has already happened to me. I had heard about the car crash that occurred very early Sunday morning, I heard the last name of the victims, but did not make the connection until my CT told me why She would not be in class today. I was shocked. Hearing one of my students was involved in a brutal accident at the hands of an allegedly intoxicated driver made me confused. How am I supposed to feel? I should probably be strong. Students look to teachers to be a foundation in this situation. Still, I can not help but to feel such a great remorse for what my students must be going through. And the for the student involved. To lose members of your family who were in the car with you, yet be in so much physical pain. My thoughts are with her.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Something interesting I wrote quickly for a class of mine that I thought was interesting..
Today in class, after a classmate told us that her students were not reading Farenheit 451, someone asked, "is it ridiculous to ask our students to read for homework in their English class?" (or something along those lines, that is not verbatim) This struck a chord within me and I though, Wow, that is so true. I feel so bad assigning my students reading for homework. That being said (or thought in this case) I began wondering why I would feel so guilty about giving a reading assignment for homework. Perhaps it is because I am trying so hard to empathize with my students not wanting to read, I just do not give them any. Maybe it is the size of their text book. Or, possibly, it is because I simply do not think they will read the material.
In reality it is probably a bit of each scenario, but here is a theory that just came upon me: Could it be teachers these days are becoming too soft? They are just coming out of college where they did A LOT of reading and rather confront students with reading they (the students) may not enjoy, they simply read it to them? Thus vicariously living the ultimate dream life we, as teachers, wish we had as students. It sounds kind of crazy, but think about it. And if any part of this is true, can we put partial blame on ourselves for the illiteracy that is overtaking America? If every new teacher, from K-12, assigns less homework than they were given as a student, then logic might dictate that our students are reading less and expecting to not read so much as the cycle continues. Then when they get to college, should we be surprised that the common response is: "OMG, we have to read for this class?"
I am not entirely sure if this entry was a blog or a rant, but take from it what you will.
What I am taking from it is that I should assign (relevant) readings to my students, so be it should they fail.
In reality it is probably a bit of each scenario, but here is a theory that just came upon me: Could it be teachers these days are becoming too soft? They are just coming out of college where they did A LOT of reading and rather confront students with reading they (the students) may not enjoy, they simply read it to them? Thus vicariously living the ultimate dream life we, as teachers, wish we had as students. It sounds kind of crazy, but think about it. And if any part of this is true, can we put partial blame on ourselves for the illiteracy that is overtaking America? If every new teacher, from K-12, assigns less homework than they were given as a student, then logic might dictate that our students are reading less and expecting to not read so much as the cycle continues. Then when they get to college, should we be surprised that the common response is: "OMG, we have to read for this class?"
I am not entirely sure if this entry was a blog or a rant, but take from it what you will.
What I am taking from it is that I should assign (relevant) readings to my students, so be it should they fail.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Saturday..
Today, I planned out how I want my second placement to go. I had thought December was a long way from now, but as I planned what I would do throughout the period, I realized it really is not too far away. It is going to be here before I know it! That's kind of scary. Because, then, a month after that I will have my own class. Everything is happening a lot faster than I thought it would. I need some time to think about things.
Anyhow, next week I will be teaching Samuel Taylor Coleridge's "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner". It's a seven part poem that I will be spending about 40 minutes on for 3 days.
Anyhow, next week I will be teaching Samuel Taylor Coleridge's "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner". It's a seven part poem that I will be spending about 40 minutes on for 3 days.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Back in the 12th Grade!
So today was my first day back in the 12th grade. I have so many reservations with this group of students. I have a bit less confidence in my ability to teach a group of people that are only 6-7 years younger than me. I don't want to, but I feel like they are too close to being my peers. It also doesn't help that it is a British Literature class, which wasn't my strongest forte during undergrad. I tend to understand American Lit a lot more.
As far as the class goes, though, the students seem great. There is actually a boy that I remember from my Pre-professional work a few years ago. He was just a freshman back then. I also ran into another boy who was in that class a few years ago. It was kind of amusing and they seem like they might be good allies to have around.
My CT is really nice. She wants me to do as much as I want, but I am just not sure how to pry my way into the class. I knew it would be hard to come in mid-term, but I am just unsure what to expect from the students. It is just my first day, though, so hopefully by the end of the week I'll be able to figure out how the class flows and find my way into things.
As far as the class goes, though, the students seem great. There is actually a boy that I remember from my Pre-professional work a few years ago. He was just a freshman back then. I also ran into another boy who was in that class a few years ago. It was kind of amusing and they seem like they might be good allies to have around.
My CT is really nice. She wants me to do as much as I want, but I am just not sure how to pry my way into the class. I knew it would be hard to come in mid-term, but I am just unsure what to expect from the students. It is just my first day, though, so hopefully by the end of the week I'll be able to figure out how the class flows and find my way into things.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Graduation..kind of.
So, Wednesday was my last day of Junior High. It was bittersweet leaving that day. It is amazing how much you get used to who/what you are around. I had the students give me anonymous feedback. I told them to write one thing they liked, one thing they didn't like, and one thing I can work on to become a better teacher. I made sure to tell them to compare me to their other teachers as a guide. Wow, were they brutally honest!
Most said I should work on my handwriting, which is very valid. Others said I should write down things in complete sentences so they know what I meant. This is true, too, because I tend to use short hand when doing notes. I forget that they are only in 8th grade and that they need much more guidance in note taking. A couple said I should be more confident and less nervous. Some said I was too strict, others said too nice. So there are definitely some things I am taking with a grain of salt. But I definitely need to loosen up a bit. I am just so afraid of losing control if I act too goofy. Then again, I should just be myself and let the students know of when it is appropriate and when it is not.
I learned a lot from these youngsters, and I gave them each a pen and highlighter to show my appreciation.
Starting Monday I will be at ne of the local High Schools. I am pretty nervous. I will be taking part in a 12th grade English class, which is kind of scary. These students are going to be 6 years younger than me. That's not very much, in my opinion. I hear they are really great though. One of my colleagues had them and she said they were nice. I am curious to know more about them as a class, but I also want to find out on my own. I do not want to step into the classroom Monday with a bias. I feel that it is important to keep judgments to a minimum at the beginning.
I am also excited to be at the high school because they do the block scheduling. To me, this is a normal schedule, but apparently they are the only school in the district that does it. I should be comfortable in it seeing as I had it at my high school. The only thing is, as a teacher, how am I going to keep the students' attention for 90 min??
Well, wish me luck. I'll try to let you know how it goes down.
Most said I should work on my handwriting, which is very valid. Others said I should write down things in complete sentences so they know what I meant. This is true, too, because I tend to use short hand when doing notes. I forget that they are only in 8th grade and that they need much more guidance in note taking. A couple said I should be more confident and less nervous. Some said I was too strict, others said too nice. So there are definitely some things I am taking with a grain of salt. But I definitely need to loosen up a bit. I am just so afraid of losing control if I act too goofy. Then again, I should just be myself and let the students know of when it is appropriate and when it is not.
I learned a lot from these youngsters, and I gave them each a pen and highlighter to show my appreciation.
Starting Monday I will be at ne of the local High Schools. I am pretty nervous. I will be taking part in a 12th grade English class, which is kind of scary. These students are going to be 6 years younger than me. That's not very much, in my opinion. I hear they are really great though. One of my colleagues had them and she said they were nice. I am curious to know more about them as a class, but I also want to find out on my own. I do not want to step into the classroom Monday with a bias. I feel that it is important to keep judgments to a minimum at the beginning.
I am also excited to be at the high school because they do the block scheduling. To me, this is a normal schedule, but apparently they are the only school in the district that does it. I should be comfortable in it seeing as I had it at my high school. The only thing is, as a teacher, how am I going to keep the students' attention for 90 min??
Well, wish me luck. I'll try to let you know how it goes down.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
3 Day Take Over
So, my 3 day take over was the last 3 days of September. I was not completely enthused with what my CT wanted me to teach (proposition and support). The Friday before my first day we met up and brainstormed a lesson together. I threw out my ideas and she critiqued them. It was a great meeting and I got to put my twist on things.
Monday, I reviewed the general topic of Proposition and Support, asking the students what they remembered about it, and who uses this format of writing. Then we read a sample persuasive letter and, as a class, annotated/marked it up. We highlighted the thesis/proposition, underlined the support and labeled the type. This pretty much took all period. That night for homework I had them do it again on another essay.
Tuesday, in my opinion, was brutal. I went over the homework and asked the students to tell me what the marked up on their sample essay. It felt like I was pulling teeth. So painful. I would have been embarrassed had someone been observing me. And it is not like the students did not do the work. When I looked at their papers, I saw they had marked it up. They were just not talking. It's so frustrating. Anyway, after that painful 20 minutes, I gave the students time in class to work on their own persuasive letters. Some used the time wisely and got most of it done in class, the others were to finish it up for homework and be ready for a Peer Review the next day.
Wednesday went a bit better. Most of the students did their homework, albeit with quite a few moans and groans about how much they had for homework. I felt bad, but not too much since I had given them 30 minutes to get it done in class. So, in partners they read the letters, using a score sheet I gave them. They were to be looking for structural issues like having support and a counterargument, and so on. That night for homework they were to take what they had and fix it up, ready to type it up in the computer lab.
Since I was not there Thursday, I did not get to see the process as it was completed, but I did pick up the ones that were done on Friday and read them over the weekend. They were all pretty well done. Although, I think I am a fairly easy grader. I have yet to decide if that is a good thing or not, however.
Overall, I think the takeover went well. The kids seemed to be engaged with everything, even the boring part.
And now, if I can I would like to be a tad unprofessional and let you know exactly how bad it was on Tuesday. It was so bad, that even I did not want to be there. If I was one of them, I would have been bored out of my mind. It was pretty ridiculous. They made me proud, though. The way they stayed polite was quite admirable given the normal antics one might expect from 8th graders.
Monday, I reviewed the general topic of Proposition and Support, asking the students what they remembered about it, and who uses this format of writing. Then we read a sample persuasive letter and, as a class, annotated/marked it up. We highlighted the thesis/proposition, underlined the support and labeled the type. This pretty much took all period. That night for homework I had them do it again on another essay.
Tuesday, in my opinion, was brutal. I went over the homework and asked the students to tell me what the marked up on their sample essay. It felt like I was pulling teeth. So painful. I would have been embarrassed had someone been observing me. And it is not like the students did not do the work. When I looked at their papers, I saw they had marked it up. They were just not talking. It's so frustrating. Anyway, after that painful 20 minutes, I gave the students time in class to work on their own persuasive letters. Some used the time wisely and got most of it done in class, the others were to finish it up for homework and be ready for a Peer Review the next day.
Wednesday went a bit better. Most of the students did their homework, albeit with quite a few moans and groans about how much they had for homework. I felt bad, but not too much since I had given them 30 minutes to get it done in class. So, in partners they read the letters, using a score sheet I gave them. They were to be looking for structural issues like having support and a counterargument, and so on. That night for homework they were to take what they had and fix it up, ready to type it up in the computer lab.
Since I was not there Thursday, I did not get to see the process as it was completed, but I did pick up the ones that were done on Friday and read them over the weekend. They were all pretty well done. Although, I think I am a fairly easy grader. I have yet to decide if that is a good thing or not, however.
Overall, I think the takeover went well. The kids seemed to be engaged with everything, even the boring part.
And now, if I can I would like to be a tad unprofessional and let you know exactly how bad it was on Tuesday. It was so bad, that even I did not want to be there. If I was one of them, I would have been bored out of my mind. It was pretty ridiculous. They made me proud, though. The way they stayed polite was quite admirable given the normal antics one might expect from 8th graders.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Blogging isn't as easy as you think..
I'm so bad at this.
Not too much has changed lately. Still at the junior high. I have started to discuss my 3-Day Takeover with my CT, though. We are planning for September 28th, 29th, and 30th. I am not entirely sure what I will be teaching, but I am hoping for something fun. Then again, it might be up to me to make it fun.
Back to School Night was this past Thursday. I got nervous all over again introducing myself to the parents and mentioning what I was doing there. They all seemed very friendly though. I tried my best to look extra professional that night.
I am being observed tomorrow by my English content instructor. I am trying not to be too nervous about it. The only thing is I am not really going to be teaching, but more discussing. I hope she doesn't mind too much.
TEP work is starting to pile on. I know I have things to be doing, but I am not quite sure what is due when. It's my own fault really. I need to get organized. I am pretty sure I have it together.
I sent in a letter today for a fellowship. I really hope I get it. Free money is the best kind of money and would be very greatly appreciated. The less loan money I have to take out, the better in the end for me.
One thing before I forget. It's written down in my notes, but I would like to say it here so anytime I read this I'll see it...
"Don't Suck Out the Joy!!"
Not too much has changed lately. Still at the junior high. I have started to discuss my 3-Day Takeover with my CT, though. We are planning for September 28th, 29th, and 30th. I am not entirely sure what I will be teaching, but I am hoping for something fun. Then again, it might be up to me to make it fun.
Back to School Night was this past Thursday. I got nervous all over again introducing myself to the parents and mentioning what I was doing there. They all seemed very friendly though. I tried my best to look extra professional that night.
I am being observed tomorrow by my English content instructor. I am trying not to be too nervous about it. The only thing is I am not really going to be teaching, but more discussing. I hope she doesn't mind too much.
TEP work is starting to pile on. I know I have things to be doing, but I am not quite sure what is due when. It's my own fault really. I need to get organized. I am pretty sure I have it together.
I sent in a letter today for a fellowship. I really hope I get it. Free money is the best kind of money and would be very greatly appreciated. The less loan money I have to take out, the better in the end for me.
One thing before I forget. It's written down in my notes, but I would like to say it here so anytime I read this I'll see it...
"Don't Suck Out the Joy!!"
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Week 3
My gosh, have I really not updated this since August 31st? I am so ashamed. Forgive me. But if it is any consolation, it might just be an indicator to how busy I have been.
Last week was another big step for me as a student teacher. My CT suggested that I give a lesson every day on Latin and Greek roots in words. I took this more in the direction of a History of the English Language. Sounds boring, I know, but I tried my hardest to make it fun for the students. That means as little lecturing as possible, and an activity to drive the ideas home. Coming up with lessons is so hard for me. For those that may know me well, you might also know that when it comes to certain things I may tend to over think them, or want them perfect. (Right now my family is thinking "really??" But yes, it's true) I felt like no matter how hard I tried the students would not find the lesson relevant, fun, interesting, or any other positive adjective you can think of. I am always asking my CT what she thinks and she just kind of chuckles at how much of a novice I am, but she does offer her input which is nice.
I had a "formal" observation last Tuesday, where my Site Supervisor came into class to watch me teach. I know it wasn't really a pressure situation but it just added to the pressure of my first lesson. It is getting a lot easier now, though. Before my voice would get a bit shaky and my face would get real red when I was in front of the class, but now it's not so apparent. That isn't to say I am not still nervous though.
This week was short since Monday was Labor Day. I was at the junior high on Tuesday and Wednesday. Tuesday I gave a quick lecture about Greek roots, and Wednesday I had the kids do an activity where they put different roots together to form words. I had them make 5 words they knew and then 5 words they made up. For example, a word they use today would be digress, using the roots "di" and "gress". The part where they made up words seemed to be the most fun for them. They got really creative. One that I remember off the top of my head is "aquast". I should also mention that for the words they made up, they had to come up with the part of speech and a working definition. If I recall correctly, an "aquast" is a water star (aqua meaning water, ast meaning star). So I think it was a synonym for Starfish.
Once again, I am a little bummed out that I won't know much about what is going on at school over the weekend, but I am trying to plan something fun for the students when I get back.
Also, my CT and I have also started talking about when I do my 3 day take over. As of now we are aiming for the last week of September! It sounds far but seems so close! I am going to be so nervous!
Last week was another big step for me as a student teacher. My CT suggested that I give a lesson every day on Latin and Greek roots in words. I took this more in the direction of a History of the English Language. Sounds boring, I know, but I tried my hardest to make it fun for the students. That means as little lecturing as possible, and an activity to drive the ideas home. Coming up with lessons is so hard for me. For those that may know me well, you might also know that when it comes to certain things I may tend to over think them, or want them perfect. (Right now my family is thinking "really??" But yes, it's true) I felt like no matter how hard I tried the students would not find the lesson relevant, fun, interesting, or any other positive adjective you can think of. I am always asking my CT what she thinks and she just kind of chuckles at how much of a novice I am, but she does offer her input which is nice.
I had a "formal" observation last Tuesday, where my Site Supervisor came into class to watch me teach. I know it wasn't really a pressure situation but it just added to the pressure of my first lesson. It is getting a lot easier now, though. Before my voice would get a bit shaky and my face would get real red when I was in front of the class, but now it's not so apparent. That isn't to say I am not still nervous though.
This week was short since Monday was Labor Day. I was at the junior high on Tuesday and Wednesday. Tuesday I gave a quick lecture about Greek roots, and Wednesday I had the kids do an activity where they put different roots together to form words. I had them make 5 words they knew and then 5 words they made up. For example, a word they use today would be digress, using the roots "di" and "gress". The part where they made up words seemed to be the most fun for them. They got really creative. One that I remember off the top of my head is "aquast". I should also mention that for the words they made up, they had to come up with the part of speech and a working definition. If I recall correctly, an "aquast" is a water star (aqua meaning water, ast meaning star). So I think it was a synonym for Starfish.
Once again, I am a little bummed out that I won't know much about what is going on at school over the weekend, but I am trying to plan something fun for the students when I get back.
Also, my CT and I have also started talking about when I do my 3 day take over. As of now we are aiming for the last week of September! It sounds far but seems so close! I am going to be so nervous!
Monday, August 31, 2009
Week 2, Day 1
And so, week two begins. I am not sure if I prefer last week's schedule or the one that started today. It's nice to be in Journalism, and in other classrooms, but I already miss the kids I had seen in my original Read 180 class.
Journalism is exciting. It is, for the next few weeks, my period 1 class. The teacher is very nice. I also like his teaching style. Very quick, very fun. I am not sure if I'd be able to keep the pace he does in my own classroom, but I'd like to try.
Period 2 is now Read 180. However, instead of being with my CT, I am with another teacher. She's nice as well. It's a little different in her class because it is seventh graders but it is still fun.
It is kind of weird to be gone the last two days of the week. I felt like I was trying to catch up today. Hopefully as time goes on it won't be as hard.
Anyway, today in English 8 we went over the elements of "plot" using Cornell notes. The students took some notes as my CT explained each element (ie climax, resolution, conflict, etc). We also went over apostrophe usage as part of a grammar exercise, and a lesson about Latin roots in modern English. Tomorrow we are going to go over "proposition" and "support." I think we will also be getting into "Letters for Algernon," which is a fun, but long, story. I started to re-read it today. At first, it hadn't sounded familiar, but the more I read the more I was able to recall it. I hope we don't rush through it, just because it is so long that to rush it would be a shame, and I don't think the students will be able to comprehend it as well.
Today's 4pm-7pm class was ED 332B (Children, Families, and Community). It wasn't as bad as I thought. We are going to be learning the affects of relationships on students and how it applies to our jobs as teachers. I am pretty interested in it, so far.
Journalism is exciting. It is, for the next few weeks, my period 1 class. The teacher is very nice. I also like his teaching style. Very quick, very fun. I am not sure if I'd be able to keep the pace he does in my own classroom, but I'd like to try.
Period 2 is now Read 180. However, instead of being with my CT, I am with another teacher. She's nice as well. It's a little different in her class because it is seventh graders but it is still fun.
It is kind of weird to be gone the last two days of the week. I felt like I was trying to catch up today. Hopefully as time goes on it won't be as hard.
Anyway, today in English 8 we went over the elements of "plot" using Cornell notes. The students took some notes as my CT explained each element (ie climax, resolution, conflict, etc). We also went over apostrophe usage as part of a grammar exercise, and a lesson about Latin roots in modern English. Tomorrow we are going to go over "proposition" and "support." I think we will also be getting into "Letters for Algernon," which is a fun, but long, story. I started to re-read it today. At first, it hadn't sounded familiar, but the more I read the more I was able to recall it. I hope we don't rush through it, just because it is so long that to rush it would be a shame, and I don't think the students will be able to comprehend it as well.
Today's 4pm-7pm class was ED 332B (Children, Families, and Community). It wasn't as bad as I thought. We are going to be learning the affects of relationships on students and how it applies to our jobs as teachers. I am pretty interested in it, so far.
Friday, August 28, 2009
First Week
Remember when I said I was anxious to start the week? It turns out I was so anxious and excited I couldn't fall asleep until about 1:30am. Needless to say waking up was not fun, but I poured myself a tall glass of iced black tea with a touch of lemon and was good to go.
Class itself was fun. Although we did not get our official schedules until Tuesday, so on Monday I ended up helping out my CT and observing a couple other teachers. The first day was not as fun as the other two. I do not know why, but I enjoyed Tuesday and Wednesday a lot more. Perhaps it was my lack of sleep on Sunday night.
Monday night I wrote a letter to my students in English 8, and Tuesday night for homework they wrote me, and my CT, back. I have been reading them the past couple of days and making comments. It is quite humbling that some kids will trust you enough to write the things they do. I will not go into any details, and it's nothing too heavy, but still I was not expecting some of the things they were putting in there.
This week was kind of sit back and see how things go. Although I am trying to be as proactive as I can and want to do as much as I can. I am really excited to be working with the kids in my class. I already feel like I have some of them figured out, but have already been surprised.
So starting next week, my official schedule is as follows:
Per. 1 - Journalism
Per. 2 - Read 180
Per. 3 - Prep/Mentor
Per. 4 - English 8
Per. 5 - Not Assigned (mostly observing other teachers)
Per. 6 - N/A '' ''
Thursdays and Fridays are interesting. We are not on site, but rather on campus at UCSB. Yesterday we had our first master's class, and to be honest, it kind of scared me. Coming up with a topic to write on for my research feels a little scary/sketchy right now. I am definitely not too confident, but I am going to try. I would really like to get my master's at the end of all this.
Friday was our first content/methodology class. I am not sure how I feel about it at this point. I know it will be very useful, but I also feel it will be more of another source of work, which is not appealing in the least.
I got some more shirts and ties to wear to school so I can switch things up a bit. I will not have to wear the same 3 shirts every week now. That's actually the highlight of my week, sad as it may sound. :o)
I know I should be updating this every day, but I get so tired. When I get home I just want to sleep. I will give it my best effort though.
Class itself was fun. Although we did not get our official schedules until Tuesday, so on Monday I ended up helping out my CT and observing a couple other teachers. The first day was not as fun as the other two. I do not know why, but I enjoyed Tuesday and Wednesday a lot more. Perhaps it was my lack of sleep on Sunday night.
Monday night I wrote a letter to my students in English 8, and Tuesday night for homework they wrote me, and my CT, back. I have been reading them the past couple of days and making comments. It is quite humbling that some kids will trust you enough to write the things they do. I will not go into any details, and it's nothing too heavy, but still I was not expecting some of the things they were putting in there.
This week was kind of sit back and see how things go. Although I am trying to be as proactive as I can and want to do as much as I can. I am really excited to be working with the kids in my class. I already feel like I have some of them figured out, but have already been surprised.
So starting next week, my official schedule is as follows:
Per. 1 - Journalism
Per. 2 - Read 180
Per. 3 - Prep/Mentor
Per. 4 - English 8
Per. 5 - Not Assigned (mostly observing other teachers)
Per. 6 - N/A '' ''
Thursdays and Fridays are interesting. We are not on site, but rather on campus at UCSB. Yesterday we had our first master's class, and to be honest, it kind of scared me. Coming up with a topic to write on for my research feels a little scary/sketchy right now. I am definitely not too confident, but I am going to try. I would really like to get my master's at the end of all this.
Friday was our first content/methodology class. I am not sure how I feel about it at this point. I know it will be very useful, but I also feel it will be more of another source of work, which is not appealing in the least.
I got some more shirts and ties to wear to school so I can switch things up a bit. I will not have to wear the same 3 shirts every week now. That's actually the highlight of my week, sad as it may sound. :o)
I know I should be updating this every day, but I get so tired. When I get home I just want to sleep. I will give it my best effort though.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
This Past Week
With my placement known, I went to the school Tuesday and met my cooperating teacher (CT). She is very nice and I am looking forward to working with her. Thursday we went to a staff meeting where I met most of the teachers and the administration. I talked to my CT some more.
Friday was interesting. I woke up and went to the school to help my CT set up her classroom. When I was done hanging up posters and other things, we went to the library to get my Teacher's Edition textbooks. After that, my CT said I could leave but as I was packing my backpack up and walking across campus, I decided to ask her if I could do more. I mean, I had nothing else to do that day and I figured anything I could do would be helpful; not to mention another learning experience for me. So, I met up with her in the copy room and she had me make a lot of copies of things. And I do mean a lot. It was really frustrating dealing with a copy machine that jams every 5 seconds. I'm not even exaggerating. So I battled the copier for about an hour and finally finished it up. After that I went home.
Tomorrow is the first day of school!! I'm really anxious. I hope it all goes well.
Wish me luck!
Friday was interesting. I woke up and went to the school to help my CT set up her classroom. When I was done hanging up posters and other things, we went to the library to get my Teacher's Edition textbooks. After that, my CT said I could leave but as I was packing my backpack up and walking across campus, I decided to ask her if I could do more. I mean, I had nothing else to do that day and I figured anything I could do would be helpful; not to mention another learning experience for me. So, I met up with her in the copy room and she had me make a lot of copies of things. And I do mean a lot. It was really frustrating dealing with a copy machine that jams every 5 seconds. I'm not even exaggerating. So I battled the copier for about an hour and finally finished it up. After that I went home.
Tomorrow is the first day of school!! I'm really anxious. I hope it all goes well.
Wish me luck!
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
My Placement
So I found out on Monday that I will have my first placement at a Junior High School. I did my pre-professional experience there. It's a nice campus. I like it. My fellow junior high TEPers and I took a tour of the campus yesterday and met so many nice people, including our Cooperating Teachers (CTs). I have two other people with me a the school, one other English, the other Foreign language.
I think we are having a meeting tomorrow, I just don't know what time yet. Hopefully someone lets me know.
I think we are having a meeting tomorrow, I just don't know what time yet. Hopefully someone lets me know.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Crazy Weather
So, as the week comes to an end, I would like to apologize for not putting up any pictures yet. Unfortunately, the weather has taken a turn for the worse and I have not seen the sun in about 3 days. That, plus there is a fire near Santa Ynez that is causing ash to rain down through the fog/mist/clouds. It's pretty depressing. I think it is having an effect on everyone in the program.
Anyway, tomorrow is our last day for this set of classes. I CANNOT WAIT to be done. Not because I do not like them, but because it means we are closer to our assignments and being in actual classrooms in the field. Which, to me, means more fun, excitement, challenges, and learning.
BTW, I thought this was interesting for "turn for the worse": (http://newsgroups.derkeiler.com/Archive/Alt/alt.usage.english/2009-02/msg02023.html)
Anyway, tomorrow is our last day for this set of classes. I CANNOT WAIT to be done. Not because I do not like them, but because it means we are closer to our assignments and being in actual classrooms in the field. Which, to me, means more fun, excitement, challenges, and learning.
BTW, I thought this was interesting for "turn for the worse": (http://newsgroups.derkeiler.com/Archive/Alt/alt.usage.english/2009-02/msg02023.html)
Saturday, August 8, 2009
A Week Later
A week later and wow! 8-5 is so tiring. I'm sure my fellow TEP-ers would agree. Fortunately the workload for the weekend is light and I got most of it done yesterday. I was quite upset with myself yesterday for getting so worked up and frustrated yesterday in ED 211S. I'm blaming it on a long, tiring week. I am fine now. This weekend is going to be a good time to let off some steam and get read for another long week.
Anyway, these are the classes I have been taking, and will be taking until the 14th:
ED 396 SCWriP
ED 211S (Psych Foundations)
ED 283A (Classroom Management) ended yesterday
ED 234 (Linguistics for Tch) starts Mon.
So far, this summer, I have taken:
ED 103 (Technology Tools)
ED 109M (Health Education)
ED 203A (Foundations of Ed.)
ED 270H (Language, Culture, & Learn.)
We start our assignments in a couple weeks, and the highly anticipated "Teachers at the Beach(ers)" is coming up. So there are many things to look forward to.
Anyway, these are the classes I have been taking, and will be taking until the 14th:
ED 396 SCWriP
ED 211S (Psych Foundations)
ED 283A (Classroom Management) ended yesterday
ED 234 (Linguistics for Tch) starts Mon.
So far, this summer, I have taken:
ED 103 (Technology Tools)
ED 109M (Health Education)
ED 203A (Foundations of Ed.)
ED 270H (Language, Culture, & Learn.)
We start our assignments in a couple weeks, and the highly anticipated "Teachers at the Beach(ers)" is coming up. So there are many things to look forward to.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
First One
So, here I am in back at UCSB. Things are going great, albeit a little tiring. I finished up my first two official education classes on Thursday and start 3 new ones on Monday. This is the first time in a few weeks I have had a free weekend to do whatever and just relax and recharge the batteries. On Monday we start a Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm schedule. Needless to say, I am NOT looking forward to that.
Classes are really different than undergrad. There is a bit of reading every night, and some responses, but usually nothing is graded. At least, not yet. Most of the time we just discuss theory about education, which is really tiring, but I find it to be awesome to get other people's perspectives on certain things.
I've met some really cool people. I have found it much easier to get along with classmates since we all have the same goal-- to teach. The female to male ratio is quite ridiculous. Out of the 102 people in the program (that's Special Ed, Elementary, and Secondary) about 89 or so are female. Maybe a little less. But over 80 for sure. There was supposed to be a Happy Hour get together on Thursday. All the girls went to Chili's for Margaritas. About 4 of us guys went to this Pizza place in Isla Vista for some Happy Hour priced pitchers of beer. I think it's going to be important for us to just have a guys night or something every once in a while so as not to get overrun by the sheer abundance of estrogen.
I was supposed to go to NP yesterday for a haircut and pick up supplies, but my hair stylist wasn't working, so I am going in a couple hours. My mom and I are going to see a movie before I come back up. I think I'll be back in the evening.
I need to post up some pics of my surroundings. I have a decent view and if I crane my neck just enough I can see the sun set behind the foothills every day from my window. It's gorgeous.
Classes are really different than undergrad. There is a bit of reading every night, and some responses, but usually nothing is graded. At least, not yet. Most of the time we just discuss theory about education, which is really tiring, but I find it to be awesome to get other people's perspectives on certain things.
I've met some really cool people. I have found it much easier to get along with classmates since we all have the same goal-- to teach. The female to male ratio is quite ridiculous. Out of the 102 people in the program (that's Special Ed, Elementary, and Secondary) about 89 or so are female. Maybe a little less. But over 80 for sure. There was supposed to be a Happy Hour get together on Thursday. All the girls went to Chili's for Margaritas. About 4 of us guys went to this Pizza place in Isla Vista for some Happy Hour priced pitchers of beer. I think it's going to be important for us to just have a guys night or something every once in a while so as not to get overrun by the sheer abundance of estrogen.
I was supposed to go to NP yesterday for a haircut and pick up supplies, but my hair stylist wasn't working, so I am going in a couple hours. My mom and I are going to see a movie before I come back up. I think I'll be back in the evening.
I need to post up some pics of my surroundings. I have a decent view and if I crane my neck just enough I can see the sun set behind the foothills every day from my window. It's gorgeous.
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