Ed Founds Prac Day reflection(s)
Ed Found Prac Reflection #1 – the ‘first’ days
Being assigned to a NSW’s school, I’m actually in my third-week of Prac teaching, and dare I say, it’s been quite an experience thus far. I’m seeing that what we have learned in our Education courses is becoming valuable in the classroom environment.
My mentor teacher is a battle-hardened veteran and has experienced allot in the classroom. He has offered me heaps of advice and noteworthy guidance. Very candid and forthcoming with his assessments on how I’ve been doing – and its much appreciated. I regress for a moment (...)
(…) My first week was full of jitters. My biggest issue was I wanted to know the students names. I decided to make little paper placards that each student could write their name on and place on top of their desks. After I asked them to write their “real” name on the placard, they seemed to follow my instructions. This is year 7 Geography class. Just learning the copier was a huge task – thank you ITC class!
Late in this lesson, I managed to remove their name placards and tuck them in my satchel until the next morning. When I had them again for class – I tried my best to match the name placards with the students. I only managed to match about 10% of the students’ names with the correct placard! Needless to say, we all had fun with this exercise – at my expense! Most of the students were laughing at my memorisation exercise.
Proper preparation is the key! Did I say preparation? The students can sniff out a non-prepared teacher. I learned this very quickly – especially if the class in very engaged and focused. Also, a well prepared lesson will enable the students to glean the most from a good lesson that’s prepared and targeted.
Also, the timing of lesson plan should match the time allotted. One class, I found myself full ten-minutes short of where I was supposed to finish, ouch! ‘Dog and pony show’ perhaps to fill the time. Oh no! With the assessments due the same time as preparing prac lessons, I have not seen my spouse for about two-weeks now. It’s rather tiring times …
Yes, I am having huge challenges with some students, but I’m trying to convey to them it’s important to do well, and try their best. Some listen, and some don’t. Stay tuned for further updates, as I am eager to share them with you.
