My confidence level has improved very much, I believe my delivery in the classroom is more fluid and my time estimates are better as a result. I find teaching Bell To Bell requires less late alternative back-ups. This also helps with my curriculum mapping, not having to make adjustments as often. My (Tool Bag) is growing and I enjoy trying new methods.
I feel classroom management continues to need adjustment. Most days are good, some are more difficult. Moods of different classes continues to amaze me. I feel this is one of the most important aspects of our duties, if classroom management fails, we and our students fail. I am grateful I get a second chance the second semester as I will receive a brand new block class. I feel this opportunity may place me a year ahead on classroom management by the end of spring semester. I have received advice from other teachers saying not to smile before Christmas. I wish this was in me, but totally out of my character. I see how this advice may help as the students do not have to like you to learn from you.
I would have never imagined you needed a confidence boost! You seem so calm and cool in class. I also will be glad for a new set of students next semester. I feel it gives me a whole new chance to improve.
ReplyDeleteThe students can still learn from you if they don't like you, but it certainly helps if they do.
ReplyDeleteHi, Ken - well said. You know, it's hard not to smile when you're having fun, and teaching should be fun and I think high school students, for the most part, learn more when they are having fun. The cool part is when they don't even realize they are learning because they are enjoying an activity so much. I know your Tool Bag will have many fun and interesting activities as your new lab gets going.
ReplyDeleteBy the way, I really like all the comments you have spread around the blog - very nice and thanks for taking the time to share with everyone.