A. I've witnessed many accounts of stereotyping and false assumptions in my experience this semester. There are several black and Hispanic males in my classroom that are in and out of ISS for various behavioral issues. However, my cooperating teachers and I have never experienced any trouble from them. After a bit of digging, we found that these students caused problems for teachers that wrote them off as "troublemakers" and therefore just gave up on them. It is amazing how different a student reacts just by being treated like a human. Unfortunately, not many teachers give them this opportunity because they are people of color with a history.
B. I believe that building a rapport with students is the first thing that teachers need to do, especially in high school. If the students do not believe that the teacher will vouch for them, they are less likely to put forth effort, or even behave in class. In one of my classes, there is a student who I will call "J." J has always been very polite, but never really talked or participated much in class. However, through building a relationship with him and offering to help as much as possible, J learned that he could trust us. Therefore, over the past few months, J has participated more in class and has been putting forth more effort. It makes sense, thinking back to my own high school experience. Students are far more willing to work for and approach a teacher they feel cares for them.
Saturday, November 23, 2013
Saturday, November 9, 2013
Reflection #3
The No Child Left Behind Act was created to ensure that all students were getting a proper education and that no one was "falling through the cracks." Unfortunately, since its implementation, it seems that only problems have arisen instead of results and, more importantly, true education. Because of the system, many if not most districts now only focus on the standardized testing in order to receive more funding.
In my opinion, the only way to fix the education system is to put more time and effort into creating individualized curriculum for all students. Unfortunately, I don't see this happening any time soon. In order for this plan to work, the nation would need tons of people to put in the work required. Hiring more people to do this would require more paychecks, and America in the present isn't willing to give that up just yet.
One way that teachers have been able to include all students is through the practice of Inclusion. This practice ensures that students with special needs are receiving all that they need in regular classes. It is extremely important that future educators be well prepared in handling students of all needs. Aydin and Kuzu state that "...teacher candidates’ attitudes toward mainstreaming varied significantly with the variable of taking or not taking special education and mainstreaming courses, the group who had taken the courses showed more positive attitudes. With these findings, it can be once again stressed that special education and mainstreaming lectures should be included in curriculum of teacher education programs" (2013, p. 477). When teachers are better prepared to handle students with special needs, the students themselves will receive a more fulfilling education.
In my classroom, I have experienced several cases of students with special needs receiving attention. For example, the students who are ELLs are given special curriculum and translations to help them acquire language within the classroom. In another example, my classroom has several students who require small-group testing. There are also students who simply have difficulty reading on white paper, so they are provided with colored overlays or colored copies of the same handouts.
As a student teacher, I believe the practice of Inclusion is a very noble pursuit, but the amount of time and preparation needed is incredible. I would stress, as the article above mentions, that future educators need plenty of training to feel comfortable teaching students of all levels. I try to keep up with all the current pedagogy and strategies, but I must admit, it can all be overwhelming at times.
Aydin, A. & Kuzu, S. (2013). Teacher Candidates’ Attitudes Towards Inclusion Education and
Comparison of Self-compassion Levels. US-China Education Review, 3(6), 470-479.
In my opinion, the only way to fix the education system is to put more time and effort into creating individualized curriculum for all students. Unfortunately, I don't see this happening any time soon. In order for this plan to work, the nation would need tons of people to put in the work required. Hiring more people to do this would require more paychecks, and America in the present isn't willing to give that up just yet.
One way that teachers have been able to include all students is through the practice of Inclusion. This practice ensures that students with special needs are receiving all that they need in regular classes. It is extremely important that future educators be well prepared in handling students of all needs. Aydin and Kuzu state that "...teacher candidates’ attitudes toward mainstreaming varied significantly with the variable of taking or not taking special education and mainstreaming courses, the group who had taken the courses showed more positive attitudes. With these findings, it can be once again stressed that special education and mainstreaming lectures should be included in curriculum of teacher education programs" (2013, p. 477). When teachers are better prepared to handle students with special needs, the students themselves will receive a more fulfilling education.
In my classroom, I have experienced several cases of students with special needs receiving attention. For example, the students who are ELLs are given special curriculum and translations to help them acquire language within the classroom. In another example, my classroom has several students who require small-group testing. There are also students who simply have difficulty reading on white paper, so they are provided with colored overlays or colored copies of the same handouts.
As a student teacher, I believe the practice of Inclusion is a very noble pursuit, but the amount of time and preparation needed is incredible. I would stress, as the article above mentions, that future educators need plenty of training to feel comfortable teaching students of all levels. I try to keep up with all the current pedagogy and strategies, but I must admit, it can all be overwhelming at times.
Aydin, A. & Kuzu, S. (2013). Teacher Candidates’ Attitudes Towards Inclusion Education and
Comparison of Self-compassion Levels. US-China Education Review, 3(6), 470-479.
Saturday, October 26, 2013
Success Journal Reflection
Looking over my blogs this week, I can see that one of my biggest areas in need of improvement are classroom management and lesson planning. It's been difficult for me to create ideas and use plans that work for me. As this assignment states, it's easy to focus on the negative. But I have had some small successes, such as keeping my confidence up, at least in front of the students, and finding ways to connect with the students so that they feel that I'm approachable. Most of my small successes this week have been personal things that I've always been trying to work on.
However, perhaps my biggest "success" thus far has been perseverance. Because believe me, there have been plenty of times this semester when I've just wanted to give up. Part of it may be due to the many difficulties outside of the classroom that I've had this semester, but it's been tempting just to run away. Being in the classroom, I realize that I love getting to talk with students, to have discussions, both whole-classroom and one-one-one, but the work that surrounds it is more than I realized. Hopefully, I will be able to keep my perseverance going so that I can finish the semester and graduate.
However, perhaps my biggest "success" thus far has been perseverance. Because believe me, there have been plenty of times this semester when I've just wanted to give up. Part of it may be due to the many difficulties outside of the classroom that I've had this semester, but it's been tempting just to run away. Being in the classroom, I realize that I love getting to talk with students, to have discussions, both whole-classroom and one-one-one, but the work that surrounds it is more than I realized. Hopefully, I will be able to keep my perseverance going so that I can finish the semester and graduate.
Success Journal - October 25, 2013
It's been a very long week, and honestly, it was difficult to stay positive throughout the day. However, shortly after lunch, I realized that I needed to loosen up a bit. By the last period, I tried to have more fun with the students and relax. I think it worked, as it was much less stressful letting go a little bit for the end of the week. I can certainly see how stressing myself out will only result in failure, and I need to learn how to relax to be an effective teacher.
Thursday, October 24, 2013
Success Journal - October 24, 2013
Today I felt that I was a positive example to my students by donating blood. I know it's not specifically academic, but I felt that I was doing the right thing. It was also a chance to let some students see me outside of the regular class time, which I believe is important, as students begin to see you as a real person, not just someone who stands at the front of the classroom. Afterwards, I felt very woozy, but I took care of myself and stuck with the rest of the day, even though I honestly just wanted to go home. So overall, today was a very long and tiring day, but I persevered.
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
Success Journal - October 23, 2013
This morning I was running behind and was slightly under-prepared. Therefore, my first period was rather rough in terms of delivery. However, by second period, I was able to pull together a bit better and the rest of the day went more smoothly. I was proud of myself for being able to adjust and persevere and get through the day without falling apart, as I can be a little overly critical of myself and shut down. It makes me feel that I might be getting the hang of this.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Success Journal - October 22, 2013
Today, I was able to keep up with all my paperwork, particularly grading. I know that many teachers (especially us English teachers) tend to get bogged down with the amount we have to read and evaluate. I felt accomplished in getting caught up with the mountain of papers I had to grade. I was also able to enter the grades into the grade-book and computer with relative ease. It's the little details like this that take up so much time, and I feel that being a detail-oriented person, I will continue to succeed in this area.
Success Journal - October 21, 2013
Sorry for being a day late! Internet problems...
Today (the 21st), I had a student offer me cupcakes. I also had another student tell me that they saw me shopping this past weekend and wanted to say hello. While that may not seem like much, it was a sign to me that I am building a repertoire with my students. These particular students are very shy and quiet. They've gotten comfortable with talking and joking around with me when appropriate. I feel that I'm a very approachable person, and hopefully, this will encourage students to feel comfortable approaching me with any concerns in the future.
Today (the 21st), I had a student offer me cupcakes. I also had another student tell me that they saw me shopping this past weekend and wanted to say hello. While that may not seem like much, it was a sign to me that I am building a repertoire with my students. These particular students are very shy and quiet. They've gotten comfortable with talking and joking around with me when appropriate. I feel that I'm a very approachable person, and hopefully, this will encourage students to feel comfortable approaching me with any concerns in the future.
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Reflection #2
1. Sometimes, offering only multiple choice or chapter tests limit a student's intellectual and creative processes when students have the potential to do so much more. These types of test only assess knowledge of students, not the skills or ideas they may have. In the poem "Chapter 14" the author describes their questions and thoughts about the subject. However, the author's expanding inquisitiveness is halted because the author is more concerned about the test, not about the knowledge they may gain by following through with their thoughts and questions.Many times, students who are allowed to express their own personal input show more interest in the subject and overall success in the classroom.
2. Two types of formative assessments I use are one-on-one communications with students, such as asking them specific questions, and classroom discussions, where students are allowed to express their own thoughts and concerns about a question given to them and exchange ideas.
Two types of summative assessments I use are unit tests, such as over a book or literary period, and papers, such as an expository essay over several subjects we cover in a unit.
It is important to have both types of assessments for students so that their day-to-day progress can be monitored while they have something "tangible" that reflects their growth and success.
One assessment I would like to try is a portfolio of students' work and progress throughout a six weeks. I would do this by collecting their papers, assignments, and any other crafts they create. Another assessment I would like to try is exit slips. I would have each student answer a question before they were allowed to leave the class. Finally, another assessment I am interested in are interviews. I think this would be great practice for all students who will need formal one-on-one communication skills in their lives. I would like to schedule times for students to answer both objective and subjective questions verbally, based on a topic or unit.
2. Two types of formative assessments I use are one-on-one communications with students, such as asking them specific questions, and classroom discussions, where students are allowed to express their own thoughts and concerns about a question given to them and exchange ideas.
Two types of summative assessments I use are unit tests, such as over a book or literary period, and papers, such as an expository essay over several subjects we cover in a unit.
It is important to have both types of assessments for students so that their day-to-day progress can be monitored while they have something "tangible" that reflects their growth and success.
One assessment I would like to try is a portfolio of students' work and progress throughout a six weeks. I would do this by collecting their papers, assignments, and any other crafts they create. Another assessment I would like to try is exit slips. I would have each student answer a question before they were allowed to leave the class. Finally, another assessment I am interested in are interviews. I think this would be great practice for all students who will need formal one-on-one communication skills in their lives. I would like to schedule times for students to answer both objective and subjective questions verbally, based on a topic or unit.
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Reflection #1: Introduction
What a unique title. My creative writing professors would be proud. Though it was required in the instructions, so I suppose it can slide...
My name is Kiah, quite obviously. This semester I am teaching English to juniors at Central High. I am hoping the experience in a big school (as I graduated from a small high school, myself) will prepare me to teach in the city. Hopefully, I will move to Austin to teach after graduation. I've always loved the city and the surrounding area, so teaching in Austin would be ideal for me.
On to the questions: It's an interesting saying - "wearing different hats" - at least to me, as it makes me think of my grandmother. She was...eccentric, to say the least. And one of her quirks was that she liked to wear "fashionable" hats that would put the British royal family to shame. But her blood runs through my veins, and while I may not be as eccentric as my dear Nana, rest her offbeat soul, I must learn to wear my metaphorical hats as well.
"So what are the top three hats of a teacher?" I hear you ask with anticipation. Here's what I believe:
The Provider
One of the duties of an educator is to provide material and means of examining said material. Teachers need to be well informed and well read in their fields. They also need to be aware of how to present information about their fields to students. Teachers need to do more than tell, they need to teach, redundant as it may sound. Learning occurs when the student comes to his or her own conclusions about the information provided, often with guidance.
The Supporter
Learning cannot happen (not to its full potential, anyways) if students feel endangered, threatened, or otherwise discouraged. Therefore, educators need to pay special attention to students' well-being. There are so many factors in a student's life that happen outside the classroom that could affect his or her learning. Perhaps it's life at home, or a job, or any number of other responsibilities. Teachers should check up on their students, learn about their needs and interests and dreams, create meaningful connections that will ultimately both comfort and inspire students.
The Catalyst
This role may be the most important, in my humble opinion. For it has been teachers that inspire the next generation. Ideas are a truly powerful thing, and many of them begin in learning environments. Teachers and students should always be brainstorming together, trying to see the world in a clearer light, thinking of ways to improve the future. Many people wiser than I have said that the most important job in the world is that of a teacher, because it's the starting point of every profession out there.
And so, all that remains is to include a few pictures to end on a light note (I'm not sure exactly how many I should post, so here goes nothing).
In all seriousness, I do look forward to this semester and learning all that I can about being an effective teacher. I hope we can support and mentor each other as well as have some fun along the way. We can do this!
My name is Kiah, quite obviously. This semester I am teaching English to juniors at Central High. I am hoping the experience in a big school (as I graduated from a small high school, myself) will prepare me to teach in the city. Hopefully, I will move to Austin to teach after graduation. I've always loved the city and the surrounding area, so teaching in Austin would be ideal for me.
On to the questions: It's an interesting saying - "wearing different hats" - at least to me, as it makes me think of my grandmother. She was...eccentric, to say the least. And one of her quirks was that she liked to wear "fashionable" hats that would put the British royal family to shame. But her blood runs through my veins, and while I may not be as eccentric as my dear Nana, rest her offbeat soul, I must learn to wear my metaphorical hats as well.
"So what are the top three hats of a teacher?" I hear you ask with anticipation. Here's what I believe:
The Provider
One of the duties of an educator is to provide material and means of examining said material. Teachers need to be well informed and well read in their fields. They also need to be aware of how to present information about their fields to students. Teachers need to do more than tell, they need to teach, redundant as it may sound. Learning occurs when the student comes to his or her own conclusions about the information provided, often with guidance.
The Supporter
Learning cannot happen (not to its full potential, anyways) if students feel endangered, threatened, or otherwise discouraged. Therefore, educators need to pay special attention to students' well-being. There are so many factors in a student's life that happen outside the classroom that could affect his or her learning. Perhaps it's life at home, or a job, or any number of other responsibilities. Teachers should check up on their students, learn about their needs and interests and dreams, create meaningful connections that will ultimately both comfort and inspire students.
The Catalyst
This role may be the most important, in my humble opinion. For it has been teachers that inspire the next generation. Ideas are a truly powerful thing, and many of them begin in learning environments. Teachers and students should always be brainstorming together, trying to see the world in a clearer light, thinking of ways to improve the future. Many people wiser than I have said that the most important job in the world is that of a teacher, because it's the starting point of every profession out there.
And so, all that remains is to include a few pictures to end on a light note (I'm not sure exactly how many I should post, so here goes nothing).
A very professional picture of myself.
My best friend.
My other best friend.
And finally, a relative of mine. (Get it? Because it's a rhea? And my last name is Rhea? Never mind...)
In all seriousness, I do look forward to this semester and learning all that I can about being an effective teacher. I hope we can support and mentor each other as well as have some fun along the way. We can do this!
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