Leading up to my first classroom visit at Maury River Middle School, I am a little worried and enthusiastic. I know that as soon as me and my partner are put into the classroom that it is go time. It’s almost exhilarating because I will be put into a role I haven’t really been focusing on. Even though me and my partner are supposed to observe the first day, my drive and passion will encourage me to do more and fully engulf myself in the situation. I will embark on a journey of interacting with a range of different kids from all sorts of backgrounds. One thing in my own educational career is the impact that my teacher had on me when I was a student. I want to make a huge impact in these kids’ lives, the same way my teachers helped me.
Elise Sheffield in her presentation gave me the notion that kids are eager to learn and that they need to be stimulated in ways that motivate them. The process of teaching these kids must be interactive and engaging. These kids need to be in situations where there is project-based learning. That puts these kids in the driver seat when it comes to their education. They need to be able to make conclusions for themselves not what someone tells them they should know. I expect the students to be very cautious of me at first but hopefully they will open up to me the longer they are around me. My partner and I have already contacted the teacher of the classroom. We already know we have a presentation to give to the classroom. I am excited that this is my first opportunity where I will have complete control of the classroom. This will be our first real test when it comes to teaching these kids and we will make the most of this opportunity.
Your excitement for this opportunity is certainly contagious! I think you’re definitely right to be reflecting on the influence that you might have on these kids, especially in light of the way you may have been influenced by teachers in your past. Although we may feel like interlopers in these classrooms, I think an attitude like this one will be very helpful in engaging with these students.
I think you will thrive in that role. You already do well mentoring freshman at Promaji. I think with students who are younger and eager will be great for you .
Chris, I really appreciate the energy you bring to these expectations, and the ways you’re able to connect to your own history as a learner. Just remember there is time to observe, breathe, and take in these students.
As you begin your observations tomorrow, take time to build your awareness of how the classroom seems similar, and yet distinct from ones you remember as a young student. Your observation sheet (on back of schedule) and your readings in PB Teaching should give you lots of jumping off points. What norms and expectations, for example, do you think might surprise you? I’ll be curious to hear.
As far as visit 2, you, Ty and I should take about readying a short presentation on public speaking. Be sure to connect with Ms Dowless to ask her what expectations she’s had thus far, and talk to the students about their ideas while they are there to get a read on possibilities.
Enjoy.
MAJ Hodde