I would have to say that I have more interesting lessons this semester. There are so many of the activities that we've done, that I can't find the time to implement them all in my classes. I have been able to keep students more engaged by differentiating lessons for different learners, including activities in lectures and walking around the room when giving lessons.
I still need to keep working on time management. I spend way too much of my time (planning periods) fixing technical problems or simply trying to improve my production system. I should focus more on teaching my lessons and less on the technical issues. This is a problem when it comes time to give lessons and I rush through them to get back into fixing problems. I plan on using a pacing guide from now on.
I find myself adjusting all day. But I feel this helps, Im sure your delivery is better, and you compensate for issues. My lessons by the end of the day are much better and easier than the first. You care so you adjust. My last period flows, they are ahead of all the others, and I actually wind down where other teachers are consumed. Do what your doing, and you will get better.
ReplyDeleteHi, Amy - I had the same problem initially in that I spent so much time preparing material, supplies, projects, etc., for the lab, but it does get better over time.
ReplyDeleteIf your curriculum allows some flexibility, try to establish fewer but longer lab-based activities for the next year or two, maybe aimed at more basic skills or projects, then add more as your time frees up with experience.
Amy,
ReplyDeleteI am with you on the time mamagement issue. Part of my problem is that I am trying to develop files of the actvities I am doing so that I can just pull and use them next year. Most days I am at school at least 6p. I still have not tackled the supply closet in my room. Unfortunatey there have been a number of times when I want to use something and it is missing parts or inoperable. My plan is to use the last day of school before winter break to inventory and check all equipment. At least this way I will know what I really have to work with next semester. I look forward to the break because it gives me a chance to get back into the race again with a fresh tank of gas and an upgraded engine!