Perhaps I'm in denial but, so far, my year has been pretty darn good! I'm enjoying the maturity level of the high schoolers in my district. The biggest issue I deal with is technology! We are pushing technology so students don't get behind in the world yet they're consistently "playing" on it. It's VERY frustrating. I've created a "Technology Time-Out" (shoe hanger with 2 numbers in each pocket; one for the student to retrieve their technology and the other labeling "their" pocket). Jama shared this idea with me and I LOVE it. Side Note: I enjoy taking up a cellphone and letting it face outward for others sitting close by to read their texts. My teachers used to hang notes on their bulletin boards for an entire week after they took them up! Ha!
I've employed extra-credit points for students who bring supplies from my "requested list" (on the syllabus); Lysol Spray/Wipes, Kleenex, Windex Spray, Baby Wipes, Hand Sanitizer, Pop-tabs (for the Ronald McDonald House Charity)and a Bag of Candy. I use the candy to reward my students for hard work (100 on Quizzes or Tests, Class Involvement, etc). As for my supply cabinet, it gets fuller each day! One student brought in 10 lbs. (yes, POUNDS) of pop-tabs!! Our HOSA Club is looking forward to a trip to Chattanooga next month to deliver them in person. We will also tour the Life Force Helipad, and have several different healthcare providers speak to them. A small group of 18-year-olds (hospital requirement) will tour a few select areas of the Children's Hospital.
With all this being said, I'd say I wish I didn't have to deal with "playing/texting/social media" on technology during class. Everyday, every class I have to ask them to put their technology away or turn it over (out of sight, out of mind). However, I feel certain I will continue to deal with this issue. I'm hopeful the younger generation will realize "school is for learning".
Any suggestions are ALWAYS appreciated!! :0)
My anxiety of the teaching process was relieved this week after my visit with Dr. M. Its interesting I've been in this industry for two years and I did not realize that daily lesson plans existed until my visit. Now knowing what needs and can be and done and how to plan ahead
ReplyDeleteI feel relieved. As far as the kids not acting accordingly, I employed a simple process of posting a detention list on my door and as they earn the ability sit with me after school I first informed them that I was not going to fight with them but will just add them to the list , after the first person was publicly added with ease it had an immediate effect on the remainder of the class. Use the discipline process it can works for most.
I am glad that you started using daily lesson plans. They are a great way to stay focused, keep your kids focused, and stay on top of what you are doing.
ReplyDeleteTee