Today I was able to reflect on how I was taught in middle school. It is so weird that I can remember certain aspects so clearly while others I don't recall at all.
I was in "junior high" in the mid 70's and the only memories I have are negative ones. I remember some of my teachers but not because they were good or because I liked them rather I remember them for their lack of understanding, their lack of teaching me in a way that worked for me. Teaching in junior high was lecturing, and if you needed help, it was a bad thing, and you were made to feel inadequate and stupid. I would never want to relive those two years! As a teacher now, I make a point of getting to know each of my students and let them know that they can always come for help; getting help is a good thing as you are advocating for yourself. While my own experience wasn't so great, I hope that the experience I give my own students is one that they will remember in a positive way.
For the last 30 days, I have been answering one reflection question each day and I have learned so much about myself as an educator. Whether you are a veteran blogger or brand new to blogging, I invite you to take this challenge. Video tape or write your answers to each of the reflection questions and share it with your PLN. Here are the questions that I came up with. Are you ready to take the challenge? 30-Day Blog Challenge Day 1: How did you decide to become a teacher? Day 2: What do you believe is your greatest strength as a teacher? Day 3: In which area do you think you can improve the most? Day 4: What were you most worried about as you approached your first day as a teacher? Day 5: How do you keep your classroom organized? Day 6: What have you observed of other teachers that might work in your own classroom? Day 7: How can you best promote responsibility in your students? Day 8: How do you connect with your...
Yesterday marked the first day of school on my 10th year of teaching. As yesterday went on, I reflected on lessons that I have learned through my decade career so far. 1. Get excited - Every new school year is like a blank slate with unlimited possibilities. Each year has students who are nervous and excited for school. Show them that having a passion for education is cool. 2. Surround yourself with positive people - We all know that the teaching profession can feel like a grueling and unappreciated profession at times, which is why we need to stay positive. You red to have a group of peers that will help keep you positive and focus on your goals. 3. Start small - I can tend to get caught up in the excitement of trying new things and I make a big wish list of things I want to accomplish. Then my wish list gets to be overwhelming and I don't know where to start. In these last 10 years I have learned to pick one or two things to put into practice. That way it is m...
Okay along with my 30 day reflection videos I do want to use this blog for sharing my ideas and collaborating. I was just telling my students that we live in a "global community" and I started thinking that I could collaborate with great teachers from all over. I have been researching a lot about standards based grading and I think it is the right thing for my classes. I have been reading books on grading and my eyes have really opened. My grade book used to be filled with all homework assignments and assessments. This doesn't tell anyone what the students actually came away with. I know that I need to change how I have been doing things and I know that it is best for my students.
I was in "junior high" in the mid 70's and the only memories I have are negative ones. I remember some of my teachers but not because they were good or because I liked them rather I remember them for their lack of understanding, their lack of teaching me in a way that worked for me. Teaching in junior high was lecturing, and if you needed help, it was a bad thing, and you were made to feel inadequate and stupid. I would never want to relive those two years! As a teacher now, I make a point of getting to know each of my students and let them know that they can always come for help; getting help is a good thing as you are advocating for yourself. While my own experience wasn't so great, I hope that the experience I give my own students is one that they will remember in a positive way.
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