1. Demonstrates
knowledge of disciples and subject matter related to curriculum -
Now I give strong
directions and know how to appropriately scaffold the learning for different
levels of learning. I use videos, class discussion, maps and worksheets, and
role-playing to help the students make connections and build on their prior
knowledge. I feel comfortable
redirecting students when they’re not quite to the answer. We are comfortable
enough with each other to ask for more. I think one of my strengths is
explaining a concept in student friendly terms and making it relevant to them.
During this lesson on the Blackfeet tribe the students role-played what it
would be like to be a fur trapper and a Native American. We discussed how each
side would feel and related it to our own experience.
2. Designs
interdisciplinary and discrete subject area instruction to achiever curriculum
goals -
I feel I have stronger
objectives and know how to narrow them down per lesson. The students are able
to tell me what our objectives are when I ask them. I love integrating various
disciplines into a lesson. Combining helps create hooks and build ownership of
knowledge.
3. Uses appropriate
technologies and resources to enhance instruction and student performance-
When it is appropriate I
bring in technology. We had a video about the Blackfeet history that was
produced by the tribe. The information was relevant and interesting. The
students really enjoyed and gained a lot from hearing Blackfeet tell their own
history. In this case, technology helped me because I was unable to bring in a
presenter for our lesson.
4. Selects and designs
appropriate, authentic means of assessing student learning and progress –
I do a lot of formative
assessing during a lesson through my questioning and discussions. By asking
higher-level thinking off the students rather than to fill out a worksheet I
can gain a better feel whether they are really understanding the lesson and
taking ownership of it. I feel I am really starting to grow into this style of
teaching and I like how it has progressed.
5. Implements management strategies to
promote a safe and positive learning environment –
During the lesson I am
using proximity to monitor and mediate student behavior that is not appropriate
for that time. To promote a safe and positive learning environment, especially
during a cultural lesson I talk a lot about sensitivity to others and what is
appropriate or not. When a comment is made I did not call the student out in
front of his peers but took him aside after the lesson and talked about
cultural sensitivity. Also, we practice giving respect to our peers during a
discussion. We may have to practice this during recess if need be. At the
beginning of each lesson I like to have students summarize what they already
know so I can determine where a lesson should go. If I hear anything during our
discussions that needs more attention I will redirect the lesson as is needed.
Flexibility is crucial.
6. Engages students in
learning activates that promote critical and creative thinking -
In this lesson I decided
the lesson was becoming too much like a lecture and I wanted to spark deeper
thinking. The kids were asked to discuss whether meeting with fur traders would
be a good thing or not. They had to weigh out all options and then present
their opinion to the class. I heard lots of higher-level thinking and connections
were being made. During our discussion I would vary my questioning but I always
ask for more. If a student give a partial answer I’ll ask them to ‘strain their
brain’ and make it hurt. It is more rewarding when they have to work for it.
7. Designs and
organized learning environments to accommodate learners -
This particular lesson
called for direct instruction, discussion, a small debate of opinion, and a
video component for note taking. The students were using many different forms
of assimilate the knowledge into their schemas. By this video reflection my
objectives have become clearer. The students are able to tell me what our goals
are and respect them. Discussions are great because all students can gain by
listening and participating in the discussion.
8. Communicates
clearly, accurately, and professionally to diverse audiences -
My communication with
students was a bit awkward during the beginning of my student teaching. It took
awhile to know what 4th graders know and understand. I still use some
slang and accent words but I think it helps me connect with the students rather
than distract them from the lesson. My biggest accomplishment is my ability to
give directions. Again, knowing the 4th grade mind has helped me to
scaffold my directions and prompts. I know how much chunking and front loading
to do. I feel much more comfortable with this now.
9. Reflects on
professional responsibilities and demonstrates commitment to fairness and the
ability of all to learn -
All students are capable
of learning when given a chance, so I give them all a chance. There are some
students who gain more from listening and small group discussions than being
called out in front of everyone. I do what is fair for my students as
individual learners.
10. Have you reached
your goals from the first reflection -
I have met my goals and
then some. I look comfortable with the class, my body language is more at easy;
I look like I enjoy what I do. My
ability to introduce a lesson has improved immensely. There is a flow to the lesson but it is not so ridged that I
can’t be flexible when needed. Unfortunately, I still am getting used to the
sound of my teacher voice on tape and it bugs me but I guess I’m stuck with
that.
