Some strategies that I have implemented from this summer's NTI course are preparation and organization from the beginning until the end of class. I utilize my set induction time to assure my role has been taken so that I do not waste class time, if possible. I also like the strategy of posting my rules for both the classroom and lab on the walls so that they see them clearly everyday. I point them out from time to time so that they are reminded. I like splitting the class down into small sessions of lectures, group activities, demonstrations, individual projects, student teaching and many other strategies. Making changes throughout the ninety minute class period helps the students focus and touch on all the different ways that various students learn.
What has made this year run more smoothly than last year? I feel that I was more confident and continue to be on a day to day basis because I have a better concept of time management. I have all my lesson plans finished for the semester and I am freed up to enhance my learning or to add to lesson plans that may be weak. I feel that having gone through this has made me realize my strengths and weaknesses. It has helped me to work on the areas that I may not be so strong in. If I ever do have extra time at the end of class I now have a "bag of tricks" to pull out from, such as, different forms of reviewing that are fun and effective way of learning for students.
Thank you for your guidance and direction in making us all feel that we have what it takes to be a great teacher one day! You have formed a very supportive team and you all are very much admired at the strides you take to assure our success!
Gina, I could not agree more. I bet your last year was crazy. My year has been crazy thus far even after taking NTI. I found "the bag of tricks", to have at the end of class do help with classroom management. At the beginning of the year I felt I was too nice and I started seeing the studetns taking advatage of the that. I started giving them enough to keep them busy until the end of class. I also make them clean up now so I don't go in behind them after every class and feel like a janitor.
ReplyDeleteHi Gina,
ReplyDeleteTime management is an issue with most teachers. It gets easier as we gain experience. I still always have too much and have to cut things. I had a great activity for our group for Saturday and we didn't have time to do it. I will save it for our session in December. Dr. Colbert (from last year's summer) mentioned that time management is difficult for him. Thanks for your post, Dr. J.