Blog 4.4 Mini-Teach 2

 Intro

As the last day of my 5-week field experience, I taught my 2nd mini-lesson. I was accompanied by Ms. Sweat and Ms. Turner, who is the middle school principal. They both observed me as I prepared the students for their state atlas test by going over symmetry.

Lesson plan overview    

I started off by reviewing the previously taught mini-lesson to see if the students retained the knowledge, then we polished off the definitions, and went straight into some examples. This time, every portion was student-based teaching, allowing them to give their own examples and to be able to give the correct answer.

What went right/well

When giving the students the opportunity to teach the class with me, it made sure not only were they learning, but they were able to have fun while doing so, thus giving a positive environment that all students could enjoy before state testing.

Needed changes

I believe that for this lesson, I taught it as well as I could, thus seeing no changes needed. This lesson got positive feedback from both the students and the teacher. 

Conclusion

I am so glad that I was able to teach the class my mini-lesson. I truly was given the full experience of what it was like to have a positive outcome from a lesson, and see how the students showed growth because of it. So overall, a great lesson.

Blog 4.3 Mini-Teach 1

 Intro

In the last days of our 5-week period, we were allowed to teach 2 lessons on anything in the curriculum. As Ms. Sweat's class was going over symmetry, I decided to do my mini-lesson on it, hoping that it could better prepare her students for the state atlas test.

Lesson plan overview

The mini-teacher started by defining what symmetry was and how to spot it. Next, we went over some easy examples so as not to overload the students. Then, we went into more definitions in the classroom textbooks, and Ms. Sweat took over the rest of the class from there.

What went right/well

When going over the definitions, all students participated in the lesson, whether it was raising their hand because they were confused or had an answer, to allowing students to give many examples of what their thoughts were on symmetry.

Needed changes

To better teach the students, I realized that my mini lessons need to be more student-focused teaching instead of focusing solely on definitions and word problems.

Conclusion

Overall, I felt pretty good for my first mini-teachings. I now know what works for the students and what needs to be changed to better advance their learning strengths. I believe I am now fully prepared for the next time I observe and teach the class.

Blog 4.2 Observations 4-6

 Intro.

As we now move on to the ending portion of my 5-week observations, I am tasked with stepping out of an intern position and into the role of a teacher. Over these days, I will be giving mini-teaches, and also the pleasure of interviewing the teacher to get a better insight into the thoughts of a teacher and their upbringing.

 Whole Class:  Favorite 1

One of my many favorite things about the class was that after every lesson, there were no complaints, no asking how much longer until next class, and no interruptions. This class was very self-disciplined and gave it a very welcoming vibe.

 Whole Class:  Favorite 2

My second favorite is whenever I was teaching, the students gave a ton of feedback. There was never a time when I got done explaining something that the students wouldn't comment on, thus giving the classroom a flowing and engaging environment.

Focus on the Teacher:  Favorite Method 1

During the times I taught, Ms. Sweat ensured that all the students were very kind and professional. If a student misbehaved or made a rude comment, she would step in to help keep me on track.

Focus on the Teacher:  Favorite Method 2

Ms. Sweat also helped me try to remember all the students' names to connect more with the students. I feel that it is best to call a student by their name instead of saying "you" or "the kid in the back"; it gives a feeling that you don't care, for which I'm glad I had help in this category.

Overall:  Impact on Your Career in Teaching

These observations have truly impacted my inspiration to teach, though I have decided to switch subjects, my interest in education stays strong.

Conclusion

Overall, this experience gave me a clear picture of what kind of teacher I hope to become one who creates a welcoming, engaging, and respectful space for every student.

4.1 Middle Schools Observations 1-3

Intro.

As I begin my 5-week observations, I was proudly informed that I would be observing Ms. Sweat! Over the first 3 observations, I got to see firsthand how a 4th grade math teacher, plans, coordinates, and conducts her classroom and the pace at which she teaches from one topic to the next.

Whole Class:  Favorite 1

One of my favorite moments is when students are allowed to come up to the board and give their answer and thought process on a problem, and no matter right or wrong, the whole class gives positive feedback!

Whole Class:  Favorite 2

Another favorite is how the students conduct themselves. They are always respectful when it comes to criticism and are always prepared to go to the next lesson with an open mind.

Focus on the Teacher:  Favorite Method 1

An amazing method the teacher uses is when she adds or subtracts points from the classroom dojo. With the sound playing over the classroom, all students are made aware that they are either doing great or getting a little too rowdy and should settle down.

Focus on the Teacher:  Favorite Method 2

At times when Ms. Sweat had to calm a situation down, she never rose to the student(s) level; instead, she calmly talked with them to asses the situation and solve it as best as she could.

Overall:  Impact on Your Career in Teaching

These past 3 observations have strengthened my passion to teach, giving me a more insightful perspective on the challenges and rewards to come.

Conclusion

Observing Ms. Sweat’s classroom has been an amazing experience that showed the importance of patience, positive reinforcement, and strong classroom management. These observations will help my journey in becoming a better teacher in the future.

3.2 Middle School Observations

 Introduction

    Currently, in Intro to Education, we are allowed to observe Middle School teachers and how they conduct the classroom, what materials are frequently used, what are some commonly used areas, and how they ensure student growth.

Middle School Observation 1

    My first observation was of Mrs. Sweat and her 4th-grade math class. Mrs. Sweat used many tools to help her conduct her classroom, such as Class Dojo, daily bellwork, i-Ready books, and more. These materials help ensure that the class is having fun while staying productive

Middle School Observations 2

    My second observation was Mrs. Hall. With a more traditional teaching style, she kept students focused the whole time with a constant and engaging learning flow. She was quick to answer any questions and made sure that all knowledge was retained for their next class

Greatest Takeaway

    The biggest takeaway is that both modern tools and traditional methods can be effective in keeping students engaged and focused, as long as the teacher is organized and makes learning enjoyable.

Conclusion

    In conclusion, both observations show that different teaching styles can be successful when paired with strong classroom management and a focus on student learning.