I would say the teaching practice that has improved most for me is in planning group activities. After one of my observations by Ms. Greene, she suggested that I have smaller groups. I had always divided the groups mathematically… I had five computers so I had five groups. Unfortunately, this caused me to have larger groups and that meant less “hands-on” learning for some of the group members. It also meant more playing around and potential for trouble. By decreasing the group sizes, I have better control of the groups and we are getting to work on a variety of projects.
In order to improve, I need to be more consistent. I am so stressed with life and work that I have a difficult time maintaining consistency. I will start something and then drift off down the path of least resistance. We may start a project, but if the kids are having a really difficult time with it, I will break it down and make it easier. I know this may be a good idea on occasion, but I think it would be better if I set the standard and keep to it. I’m pretty sure the State would prefer that as well.
Josh, a reminder of an NTI saying; things don't always work the first time you try them. When I do a project I try to make changes as I go, not for the current class, but for the next time I do the project in hopes that it will work better. I also try to let my students (especially after their first semester) have a say in the development of the project. I even use this plan on projects that I have fully planned out already and may change a thing or two depending on their ideas. But, when they have input they fully know the expectations as well as consequences of the project. Recently I allowed a class to develop their project rubric and had great success with it. They like that ownership.
ReplyDeleteI adjusted a few lessons early on and found the students talked to other classes and started using this in an effort to do less. I adjust lesson plans for implementation only as a rule. I seldom lower my expectations. These students are good at getting their way, some only have to ask twice at home to get their way. If they see a soft underbelly they will feed.
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