Well, sort of at least. It has certainly felt like a whirlwind this past month. It has been interesting spending little more than four hours in a classroom each week to spending nearly thirty-five or more. While some of the classes can crawl by as I sweat out trying to extend a lesson that, unfortunately, fell short of the time I had allotted for it, the days fly by and I often leave feeling as though I have not accomplished everything I needed to.
But that's OK. The students are getting used to having me around the room, and some of them appear to even respect me a little bit. It has to be difficult for them as well to have somebody come into the classroom who they are not used to in the middle of the year, and start taking over. Of the classes I have taught so far they have gone, actually, quite well. The relationships are developing and the level of comfort is increasing daily.
One of the things I have come to love this semester, though it can also be a great source of frustration, is the expectation that my CT has for me. I have had good teachers and good bosses before, but I don't think I have ever worked with somebody who has stayed on me as hard to get things completed as she has. That isn't to say I am always a major procrastinator by any means, but where I like to get things finished on time-she prefers them early. While this is great, it can certainly cause a lot of stress during a semester that is not only filled with other responsibilities during student teaching but a couple of other jobs on top. The stress is ultimately worth it, though. The feeling of being ahead of where I expected to be at this point in the semester, and knowing that I will be finishing up with some major tasks way earlier than I had anticipated certainly is great. Plus, I know that it is just another lesson and skill that will come in handy when necessary in the future.
The next couple of weeks certainly have a lot in store. My first big unit will be starting up either a week from tomorrow, or the following Wednesday. I think I am feeling pretty confident in the lesson plan that I have devised for the students. Round 1 will be happening with my freshman class and they will be reading The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian. While there are some incredibly valuable lessons to be taught while reading this book, there are some portions that I think will be absolutely hilarious, and at times incredibly awkward to discuss with the students. I'm really looking forward to it.
And so it is that the beginning, it isn't bad. I know that this semester has a lot in store for me, and I'm excited to see what it brings.
Scott,
ReplyDeleteI think it's wonderful that you can work so well under pressure. The fact that your CT has a high expectation of you is wonderful - you'll always have that expectation for yourself. I've told my CT's to be honest with me about everything, because sugar coating does no good; however, I'm thankful for their honesty.
Sherman Alexie is definitely a great choice for students!
Good luck with your lessons, and the rest of your semester!
Amber
Scott,
ReplyDeleteI like how honest you are in your reflection. I know the feeling of not feeling like you have completed all the tasks needed for the day. As teachers we have to know that we cannot do everything, but we can sure try =) Having high expectations will truthfully benefit you... I am having the same experience with my CT. It shows what we are capable of, and keeps me on my toes, which is realistic in teaching. Being prepared and organized are one of the struggles I see teachers deal with everyday, I believe that you will be able to accomplish these feats with full force.
I have read many articles on stress and here is one I think you will like, it is not just for women. =)https://www.teachingchannel.org/blog/2012/03/12/4-stress-relievers/
Good luck with your lesson.
---Whitney