Today was my last day with my friends in the 3rd grade. It was a very bittersweet day. Right before the bell rang, I was swarmed by the students – they were asking me if I had to leave and if I could come back next week. It was sad to say bye to them, but it was also a happy moment because I was much closer to the end! I had some enjoyable experiences during my time in the classroom. In both times during lessons, I had some fun activities that the students loved. Last week I taught a lesson and incorporated a fossil hunt which the students loved – I did not think they would be going as crazy for it as they did. Today, we were learning about the Iroquois and their games, so we planned for them to play one game. They had a great time doing that as well. It’s always fun to see the students get into a lesson.
My most challenging experience was dealing with my MT. Every step of the way, I felt like she made things more complicated than needed. She always gave me good feedback, but her grades would not mirror her. I always left her classroom feeling bad about myself and my future. But I can use that; what I’ve learned from my MT is to keep going no matter what, always be flexible, and not let things get to you. Sometimes people don’t like you – she was one of those people. I also learned a lot about myself during my time here; I knew that I am fantastic at this, can make things fun, and that students feed off my fun, vibrant energy! From the students, man, did I learn a lot? I knew that students need constant praise and attention, that all are different, that some struggle while others do not, and that they all want to be at school and learn! I also improved my questions during lessons but could still work on them. This is the only thing that needs improvement or work in the future.
I think I did awesome this semester, regardless of my grade in the class. I loved teaching all my lessons, and I did excellent in them, but if I had to pick one that could improve, it would be my first SS lesson. It was like the third week of my being there, and the students were still getting used to me, so it was a little hectic. They were trying to figure out what to do with me being up there and running the lesson. After this, though, all my other lessons went well! I am still determining if I learned anything about education from my MT. If I could do something differently, it would be for me to have the choice in MTs. I do – my MT ruined my experience, which is sad and upsetting. I can’t wait to get to know my students and teacher for student teaching. I really cannot wait! I am not anxious about anything. I’m in the classroom four days a week this semester. On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, I am in a 4th grade doing all the lesson planning, grading, etc., and on Thursdays at Mokena – I am not anxious about much. If anything, just being in a younger grade.