First Impressions...

I didn't have time to write after my first visit to the school, so I'll do it now after I've been there twice. So far, I really enjoy being in the classroom. I am already a pro at using the copy machine. I guess it's a necessary evil that's good to learn now. I really like that the teacher has given me a copy of all of the handouts she uses on the days that I am there. It is a great way to collect a ton of resources for future use in my classroom. It is also nice to be able to follow along during the class instead of just sitting there having no clue what is going on. One of the first things I noticed when I walked in the classroom, was how she had it set up. First off, the classroom is huge. She said at one time it was two rooms, but now it's all hers! She has a section of tables set up for teaching and then another set up for reading/writing groups. She has a ton of bulletin boards that are covered in things about reading and writing. There is so much to look at! It's weird being in a middle school class...I can't even remember being that age. I like seeing all of the different dynamics between the students. I've learned a lot so far even though I've only been there twice. I look forward to learning more and getting to know the students!

Guest Speaker: YA Lit

Talking in class about using young adult literature in a classroom was really interesting, but also nerve wracking at the same time. I have all these great ideas for books to use, but have no clue how to enact it in a class. I feel like students would love the books, but parents and administration might find them to non-traditional. I'm concerned that I might not know how to give a good enough rationale to back up my decisions. I am also concerned that my choices might be too biased. I want all of my students to enjoy what we do in class and be able to relate to the books that we use. I'm concerned that I will have a hard time finding good/appropriate young adult literature. So much to think about...

Teaching Diverse Learners

Most students are diverse learners because no two people are the same. Students learn differently and have different needs from a teacher. Preparing for teaching, we need to keep this in mind. Lessons need to include things that visual, auditory, etc. learners can use and understand. Lessons need to be open to views from all sides of a topic. Students should be encouraged to share their opinions because they can provide new and important information to their classmates and also the teacher. Students learn better when they can relate to something and this is a concept teachers need to keep in mind when planning their lessons. Boring topics need to be made interesting and fun!

Why Teach English?

This is a reflection I wrote in class on what it means to teach English:

I have always enjoyed and have been good at English. This is what started me wanting to teach English. English is a core subject and I want to help students fully understand the concept. Students often hate English class, but as a teacher I want to make it fun. English is a subject that prepares students not only for college, but day to day life. As an English teacher, one is responsible for a big part of a student's life. Everything builds off of English and allows students to better understand other subjects. Teaching English is a big job. English is the foundation for a student and is a very important aspect of their life.