Wow! I can't believe the first semester is over already! As I look back on it, I think that the thing that I did a really good job of is building a good repor with my students. For the most part, I feel that I have established a respectful relationship with them and it helps with the overall operation of my classes. Other than my sixth period class who thinks the day ends after fifth, I really have some eager students. I think I have developed a comfortable environment for them and also for me.
Reflecting on what I need to work on, I can think of more than one thing as there is always room for improvement. At the top of my list would be sticking to my lesson plans and not deviating from them. Personality wise, I am a very "go with the flow" type of person. There are some days when I get to work and read my lesson plan for the day that I decide that is not what I want to do, so I change it up, causing more work for me. I stick to the same topic, I just change activities. Second on my list would be doing a better job following through with grading work that the students are supposed to do in their notebooks (bell work, daily work, etc.). I need to do a better job of showing students my expectations for them as far as independant work is concerned. I could go on, but I will stop there! It really has been a good first half so with all things considered!
I am with you 100% but for the most part when the changes are made they are for the best. I've done that several times but notice with the change in activity the students were more receptive and really enjoyed class. So sometimes they could be a good thing,eventhough you may have to work a little harder.
ReplyDeleteI used to deviate from my lesson plan also. Like you, time became an issue. So now I basically try and think the lesson plans all the way through so that I don't miss a something that will really require me to change what I am doing for that class period. As far as improvements go, its a good thing that YOU can actually see that you need to improve. I know of several teachers who complains about the students when it is really they who is at fault about some of the problems they are having. It's good to be humble.
ReplyDelete