A Strange Start

Our first day with our cooperating teacher was unusual to say the least.  Ms L was helpful, full of suggestions, and clearly a wonderful teacher, but a black cloud hung over her and her students today.  They have lost one of their own.  The mood was somber and low-key.  Ms L made sure to let her kids know that she was mourning right along with them and not particularly in the mood to push them too hard, though she did get them to complete some of the necessary daily business.  Most striking for me was her compassion and her enthusiasm for her kids, whom she repeatedly referred to as ’smart’ and ‘awesome.’   I feel really lucky to be working with Ms L this semester.

Week Three

The observation this week was really great.  I was able to observe an excellent teacher in my content area, and I was totally inspired by her approach and her innovative style.  It is a great feeling to know I am on the right track career-wise.

I am really looking forward to planning lessons and actually conducting my own mini-teach in both the block and in my methods class.  Looking at textbooks was not the torturous experience maybe I was afraid it could or would be; rather, I was relieved to learn what a supportive resource they will prove to be.

Week Two…

I am really excited about observing a real life classroom, with an honest-to-goodness teacher, and authentic adolescent specimens!  We were graced with a presentation by an ESL teacher who seemed so refreshingly original and individual.  I don’t know that I will adopt all of his philosophies/tactics, but it was nice to see that a professional teacher felt comfortable enough to speak his mind truthfully and passionately.  I’m feeling a lot of mixed emotions…will write more soon.