What Worked Well
In my first weeks of school, I noticed that thoroughly explaining my classroom management plan and classroom rules really set the tone for the class. Due to events outside of my control, I have had to utilize substitutes more frequently than usual. Because my rules, procedures, and management plans were put in place and reviewed extensively in the first weeks, my students have been able to come into class, establish the routines, and run their program without me in a very smooth, efficient, and discipline free way. I have substitutes leaving positive comments about how everything is organized and well planned. Last year, substitutes left negative remarks on certain things. Now several have left their numbers wanting to sub for me on a regular basis. It’s a big compliment.
What Has Not Worked Well
Time management has not been on my side in the first few weeks. What has not worked well is getting a new principal with new expectations, new administrators making new demands, a Georgia Keys Review with greater demands in preparation, a new mandatory grading and attendance program that is littered with kinks and bugs, all new Standards and Pathways for my program which requires the creation of all new lesson plans and course work, NTI courses, teaching extended day, getting Dual Enrollment cancelled, and the announcement of the cancelation of block courses next year - all at the same time (not to mention personal life experiences outside of my control). I have been teaching for 3 years now and have never seen anything like this or heard of anything like this from other professionals.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Bernardo Baker
During my first week of school I have found several of the teaching strategies and techniques I learned in NTI to be very efficient. Last year I was not equipped to handle the day to day operation that came with being a teacher. This year I've learned to manage my time, deal with behavior problems, and connect with students from all grade levels. I have been really impressed with how the different learning styles have come together in the classroom. Some days I am still challenged by several of the PEC students (Program for Exceptional Students) in my class. It has been a real challenge to keep these students on task. My main focus is to make sure that I am providing the necessary tools for these students.
First week of school
The first week of school was a little hard for me. All the new fases and names to fo the students in class were a task in its self. I made it now its not to hard to call the out in class. Now that we have been in school for 5 weeks now the students know what to axpeat out of me and I konw what to do with thowes who have differnt stilles of larne. the thing that I am having a hard time with is the students that wonts to do nothing but labs. Now this person dos ton wont to do anew thing but walk a round the class.
First Weeks, Worked Well and Didnt
For the most part these first few weeks have gone very well. My students are well behaved and there have not been any huge mountains that I have had to climb, maybe some hills but nothing major at all. One thing that has seemed to work well is the transfer in. This worked very well the first couple of weeks of school with my introduction classes because it helped them to remember what we did the day before, and to review what they have learned. I have also tried with being more constant because the really get used to doing the same thing, for example one day we had to use all the time in class to work on projects so I skipped the bell ringers being read aloud. So a student stops me and ask if we were going to be doing that.
I cant really see what has not worked too well I just sometimes have a hard time at remembering to do some of the things that we have been taught because the days go bye so fast
I cant really see what has not worked too well I just sometimes have a hard time at remembering to do some of the things that we have been taught because the days go bye so fast
Worked Well and Not Worked Well
A little of everything has worked well together. If that makes since. I have given control to some select students and they love it and run with it. While other students I have to think long and hard about giving them control. But in the end I must give them some sort of control because I will run myself crazy.
The use of a classroom and equipment manager has helped me out tremendously. The students really love the idea that they hold a title and can say that’s my job. I actually had a student ask when do I get to be the manager. I love that they take it seriously.
I am getting use to lesson plans. Sometimes they work well when I think they won’t. Then just when I say, “I got it” this plan is going to rock…Its all down hill…it doesn’t work. I then take it personally but the students have no idea that the day didn’t go as expected. They only except what they are given and move on to the next lesson they have.
One of my fellow teachers said to me don’t take the day/class and dwell on it internally because the kids let it go and start over fresh the next day, oh to be young again.
All that being said the strategies that we are leaning can only benefit our teaching practices as well as enhance the learning skills of our students.
The use of a classroom and equipment manager has helped me out tremendously. The students really love the idea that they hold a title and can say that’s my job. I actually had a student ask when do I get to be the manager. I love that they take it seriously.
I am getting use to lesson plans. Sometimes they work well when I think they won’t. Then just when I say, “I got it” this plan is going to rock…Its all down hill…it doesn’t work. I then take it personally but the students have no idea that the day didn’t go as expected. They only except what they are given and move on to the next lesson they have.
One of my fellow teachers said to me don’t take the day/class and dwell on it internally because the kids let it go and start over fresh the next day, oh to be young again.
All that being said the strategies that we are leaning can only benefit our teaching practices as well as enhance the learning skills of our students.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
What has worked and what has not worked
I have survived my first six weeks as a new teacher in a tough high school with a smile so far, so that tells me that something in my classes must be working. I have 3 ninety minute blocks with multi-level students. I have kept my lectures to a bare minimum and have tried to incorporate alot of group activities to help students to have a variety of learning methods during one class period. I have created "Body Planes and Directions Win, Lose or Draw" for my Applications to Therapeutic Services class and they really enjoyed that. They did not stop playing until the bell rang-which is a miracle in and of itself. My Introductions Classes have enjoyed my Jeopardy test reviews with bonus points or Free Dress Passes (where they don't have to wear scrubs on professional dress day.)
There have been a few things that I can improve upon, like classroom management during my third period class. It is over 2 hours long due to lunch being during this time. They get tired of being in one class for so long and while they are not really disrespectful, they do like to talk. I am trying to break that class up into even more activity and small discussions, but near the end of class (we have last lunch, of course) they do like to get off task. I got some good suggestions from my classmates on how to handle this, but would love any new methods to handle this.
There have been a few things that I can improve upon, like classroom management during my third period class. It is over 2 hours long due to lunch being during this time. They get tired of being in one class for so long and while they are not really disrespectful, they do like to talk. I am trying to break that class up into even more activity and small discussions, but near the end of class (we have last lunch, of course) they do like to get off task. I got some good suggestions from my classmates on how to handle this, but would love any new methods to handle this.
Ten steps for studying for a Test
The first day of class I went over some key point on how to study for a test that I found on the Internet.
Below is a list of some of the points that students should find out ahead of time.
1. What material the test will cover.
2. What type of test(multiple choice, true false, ahort answer,essay).
3. How the test will be graded.
4. How much the test will count toward the final grade.
5. Study in a place that is free of distractions. Have ready all the things you will need, such as paper, pens or a calculator.
6. Study at a time when you are alert and not hungry or sleepy.
7. Don't wait until the last minute to study. Short daily study sessions are better than on long session the night before.
8. Set a goal for each study period. If you are being tested on three chapters, set up four study sessions, one for each chapter and one for a review of the main ideas in all three chapters.
9. Repetition is the key. Read and reread your class notes and the relevant chapters in the textbook.
10. Create you own study aids.a. Make an outline form your notes of just the main ideas.b. Make a timeline of important dates or the order of events.c. Make flashcards for studying vocabulary or events and important dates.
Good Luck.
Below is a list of some of the points that students should find out ahead of time.
1. What material the test will cover.
2. What type of test(multiple choice, true false, ahort answer,essay).
3. How the test will be graded.
4. How much the test will count toward the final grade.
5. Study in a place that is free of distractions. Have ready all the things you will need, such as paper, pens or a calculator.
6. Study at a time when you are alert and not hungry or sleepy.
7. Don't wait until the last minute to study. Short daily study sessions are better than on long session the night before.
8. Set a goal for each study period. If you are being tested on three chapters, set up four study sessions, one for each chapter and one for a review of the main ideas in all three chapters.
9. Repetition is the key. Read and reread your class notes and the relevant chapters in the textbook.
10. Create you own study aids.a. Make an outline form your notes of just the main ideas.b. Make a timeline of important dates or the order of events.c. Make flashcards for studying vocabulary or events and important dates.
Good Luck.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Josh - First Week Posting
So, here I go with my first week's blog posting...
One thing that has worked well for me has been my discipline policy. I have been more consistent in managing my classroom, especially the students in my Level 1 classes. It was beneficial for me to work on a classroom management plan over the summer and come in and institute it with kids who are new to my program. I had already begun to crack down during second semester last year... so my Level 2 class is actually a good class.
The thing that has not worked well for me is lesson plans. I understand that lesson plans are important, but given the fact that I have been teaching people how to do television production for the past six years, I have found that they tend to cause me to stumble and feel more inept than prepared. I do make a list of the things I need to discuss, but by in large, video production is a hands-on talent. I am doing my best to get into the habit of using them, but as they are more of a hindrance, it has been difficult.
One thing that has worked well for me has been my discipline policy. I have been more consistent in managing my classroom, especially the students in my Level 1 classes. It was beneficial for me to work on a classroom management plan over the summer and come in and institute it with kids who are new to my program. I had already begun to crack down during second semester last year... so my Level 2 class is actually a good class.
The thing that has not worked well for me is lesson plans. I understand that lesson plans are important, but given the fact that I have been teaching people how to do television production for the past six years, I have found that they tend to cause me to stumble and feel more inept than prepared. I do make a list of the things I need to discuss, but by in large, video production is a hands-on talent. I am doing my best to get into the habit of using them, but as they are more of a hindrance, it has been difficult.
First week blog
One of the things that has worked well for me is the deliberateness of presenting my lessons. Using the skills that I learned, and saw in action this summer, I am trying to make sure students understand instructions and that the lessons have closure. In the past I would give lessons and instruction, but at the end of the unit I felt that there was no cohesiveness, much of the content was scattered. If I felt that way, imagine how my students must have felt. It would be like a taste of knowledge here and there, but when all was said and done, there were still a lot of holes left. Looking back, test scores confirmed this lack of learning, but at the time, I wasn't sure how to fix it. I feel that I am now more successful in tying lessons together for better student understanding of the content. Through lesson planning, presentation, and project exploration the students seem to be doing much better.
Something that is not working for me is trying to get set inductions, objectives, transfer-in / out for 3 different classes each day. In addition to having lessons ready, administrative duties, grading, teaching a new curriculum, etc. I feel overwhelmed some days and become frustrated when I cannot get it all done despite spending 9 hours a day at work. I put a lot of pressure on myself, but I'm not a "wing-it" kind of person, I want to be prepared. I realize that much of this is time management on my part as well as getting the hang of it all. When I do get it all pulled together for a class the students seem to appreciate the fact that the class went well, their interest was peaked, and they know what to expect when they come in the next day. I feel really good about it too. I think this will continue to improve over time and I'll get better and quicker, but for now I am quite BUSY!
Something that is not working for me is trying to get set inductions, objectives, transfer-in / out for 3 different classes each day. In addition to having lessons ready, administrative duties, grading, teaching a new curriculum, etc. I feel overwhelmed some days and become frustrated when I cannot get it all done despite spending 9 hours a day at work. I put a lot of pressure on myself, but I'm not a "wing-it" kind of person, I want to be prepared. I realize that much of this is time management on my part as well as getting the hang of it all. When I do get it all pulled together for a class the students seem to appreciate the fact that the class went well, their interest was peaked, and they know what to expect when they come in the next day. I feel really good about it too. I think this will continue to improve over time and I'll get better and quicker, but for now I am quite BUSY!
Sunday, September 14, 2008
First weeks blog assignment
1st Blog Assignment
Has worked well
During the first four weeks of school, I divide my three different classes into precincts. In each precinct, I assign different ranks to each student. The ranks are captain, lieutenant, sergeant, corporal, and officer. I have four precincts in two of my classes and two precincts in one class. By giving each student a chance to become the leader of their assigned precinct, students stay on task and put extra effort into their assignments. The students regard the rank structure as a goal setting accomplishment. The majority of the students respond in a positive manner. Therefore, I have fewer disruptions during both lectures and hands on assignments. The precinct concept is an excellent way for students to work together with structure and teamwork.
Hasn't worked well
I use a blog to give information for my three different levels of law enforcement. The levels are Intro, Concepts of Public Safety, and Constitutional and Criminal Law. The blog informs the student what is going to be taught, and what they will be doing during a certain week for each level. On the blog, I place ten vocabulary words after each level's information. According to some of the students, it was difficult to determine which vocabulary words went with the correct level because the vocabulary words were listed in a jumbled manner. This caused confusion for some students. I am currently looking at different ways to correct the problem.
Has worked well
During the first four weeks of school, I divide my three different classes into precincts. In each precinct, I assign different ranks to each student. The ranks are captain, lieutenant, sergeant, corporal, and officer. I have four precincts in two of my classes and two precincts in one class. By giving each student a chance to become the leader of their assigned precinct, students stay on task and put extra effort into their assignments. The students regard the rank structure as a goal setting accomplishment. The majority of the students respond in a positive manner. Therefore, I have fewer disruptions during both lectures and hands on assignments. The precinct concept is an excellent way for students to work together with structure and teamwork.
Hasn't worked well
I use a blog to give information for my three different levels of law enforcement. The levels are Intro, Concepts of Public Safety, and Constitutional and Criminal Law. The blog informs the student what is going to be taught, and what they will be doing during a certain week for each level. On the blog, I place ten vocabulary words after each level's information. According to some of the students, it was difficult to determine which vocabulary words went with the correct level because the vocabulary words were listed in a jumbled manner. This caused confusion for some students. I am currently looking at different ways to correct the problem.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Welcome New NTI Teachers!
Welcome to the New Career and Technical Education Teachers' Blog. This site is a class blog for new CTE teachers enrolled in the New Teachers Institute at Georgia State University in Atlanta, Georgia. You may use this blog to post comments on the following:
- To share Reflective Journal entries
- To seek advice from peers regarding teaching, classroom, and lab management issues
- To discuss course assignments
- To share best classroom practices
- To share lesson plans and instructional activities, games, and ideas that you've used successfully in your classrooms
- To comment on your classmates' posts
Before you begin blogging, please read over the RULES FOR POSTING/COMMENTING TO THIS SITE listed in the column to your right. To post to this site, please sign in and click on "New Posts". We look forward to hearing form all of you. We hope you have a great blogging experience.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Craziness
If you or anyone you know is looking for a job teaching construction or business ed. in beautiful Social Circle GA, please get in touch with the Social Circle BOE at Social Circle City Schools
240-B W. Hightower Trail
Social Circle, GA 30025
If you desire, the application and reference forms may be faxed to: (770) 464-0403.
We have had 2 teachers resign today in my department. IT'S ONLY THE 6TH DAY OF SCHOOL!!!! Actually, one teacher was asked to take a position at the BOE and another just couldn't take it anymore. He was a new teacher with zero NTI.
240-B W. Hightower Trail
Social Circle, GA 30025
If you desire, the application and reference forms may be faxed to: (770) 464-0403.
We have had 2 teachers resign today in my department. IT'S ONLY THE 6TH DAY OF SCHOOL!!!! Actually, one teacher was asked to take a position at the BOE and another just couldn't take it anymore. He was a new teacher with zero NTI.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Work Ethics
I'm curious to know how many of you have been told that you have to "re-vamp" your work ethics rubrics and policies because "you cannot punish a child academically for a behavioral issue"? Also, how can you grade work ethics without double jeopardy? This is a new one for me and they are reiterating it pretty hard this year.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Survival
Well, today was my first day of school with students and it went surprisingly well! It's amazing how much better my days go now that I've had NTI. Have a great year!
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
All Advice Appreciated!!!!
I have been attending the GACTE conference and today was our session day. I attended the HOSA 101 segment and received some interesting information that I would like to bounce off of all of you ("old" and new!). It has been *strongly suggested* that when I make my syllabus (which is due on Friday...yes I have already started pre-planning!) that I put a notice on there that *all* students who take my class must be HOSA members and therefore, pay the dues. This came from another HSTE teacher but was STRONGLY backed up by Allen Seigler.
For those of you who did not attend GACTE, please be aware that the state is making a multitude of changes in our CTSO's. Be sure to spend some time talking to your state person and look at your state website so you don't miss out on anything.
I will say, (and I think that Connie and Tracey will back me on this) that this was the most DISORGANIZED mess of a conference I have ever seen. It's a shame that the state people who (dis)organized all of this are more concerned about collecting money for a conference than ensuring that room sizes are appropriate and that the environment is suitable. Obviously, they didn't ever have NTI.
For those of you who did not attend GACTE, please be aware that the state is making a multitude of changes in our CTSO's. Be sure to spend some time talking to your state person and look at your state website so you don't miss out on anything.
I will say, (and I think that Connie and Tracey will back me on this) that this was the most DISORGANIZED mess of a conference I have ever seen. It's a shame that the state people who (dis)organized all of this are more concerned about collecting money for a conference than ensuring that room sizes are appropriate and that the environment is suitable. Obviously, they didn't ever have NTI.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
SkillsUSA National Competition
Thanks to all for starting up the blogging again.
I spent a week in Kansas City for skills competition .We came back with 2 silvers and 4 fourth places. I think that was great seeing we only have our students for one year while most of the other schools has their students for a period of 4 years.
Are we still on open mic?
I spent a week in Kansas City for skills competition .We came back with 2 silvers and 4 fourth places. I think that was great seeing we only have our students for one year while most of the other schools has their students for a period of 4 years.
Are we still on open mic?
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Welcome New NTI class
Hello NTI classmates,
I am a graduate from last semester just sending you this email to wish all of you well. You guys are in for an AWESOME learning journey. I can't begin to tell you all the valuable information Dr. B and Ms. Hayden taught us. They made it so fun and always pushed you to excel beyond your limit. Just enjoy them, get ready to get down and dirty into your work and always ASK questions. You will succeed.
Never Give Up!
Victoria
June 07 NTI class
I am a graduate from last semester just sending you this email to wish all of you well. You guys are in for an AWESOME learning journey. I can't begin to tell you all the valuable information Dr. B and Ms. Hayden taught us. They made it so fun and always pushed you to excel beyond your limit. Just enjoy them, get ready to get down and dirty into your work and always ASK questions. You will succeed.
Never Give Up!
Victoria
June 07 NTI class
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Teaching Certificate!!
Hello everyone! Just wanted to let you know that today I received my official clear and renewable TEACHING CERTIFICATE in the mail. It is the most beautiful piece of paper I have ever seen! :)
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Just Curious
What is the theme for your school district's school year? In Social Circle our theme is going to center around holistic health and wellness. I think it is long overdue that we do this! If any of you have had a theme such as this and would like to share your ideas, please let me know. I am the chairperson of the Wellness Committee that is responsible for many of the activities that will take place this coming school year. For our convocation, we are having a health fair featuring many community resources. We are also going to do a school wide "Walk Georgia" program. I highly recommend that to everyone! It opens for registration in August at www.walkga.org Get involved! It's great fun! We also had our local Rec center to donate the Pilates balls that we sat on in class instead of chairs this past year. It was great fun!
Construction Guys!!!
We have a new construction teacher at our school who has no teaching experience. He was hired too late to get into NTI this year too. :( Anyway, I was hoping that some of you have lesson plans done according to the new GPS that you could send to me that I could give to him to use. I am going to spend some time teaching him some of the NTI stuff I have learned. His wife is our Technology teacher and she is going to work with him too. Any help you could provide would be great. Please send anything you may have to faithfulgirl4@gmail.com Thanks so much!!
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