Since starting in December of 2016 I can definitely say that we have had some highs and lows in room 119 but with all of that we are progressing in the right direction. I am overwhelmed at times of all the study I am to complete and work at the same time but I know it will all pay off and honestly I have already begun to use quite a few processes I have been learning in room 119. My kids are amazing to say the least. They have each grown since taking over in December. They are able to sit and listen to me teach, learn from what I teach and with parent proof (teacher parent conferences before Spring Break)...they are retaining it!!!
I have rearranged the classroom a few times and we now have it so that all five are sitting at one table and then transition to centers twice a day. They enjoy centers and like to be able to complete tasks and earn choice time.
I created rules for the classroom and we recite and talk about them everyday during morning circle. We give examples of right from wrong. I will sometimes read a specific story based on one of the rules and they are able to identify it. I try to give consequences to choices and for the most part it works, but I do have to remind myself I am working with "pre-school level to 2nd grade level" capacity.
I am going to introduce after spring break, a puppet to help me manage circle time when I do my lessons. I find that when I do my circle time, students get distracted, I can manage them for about 15 minutes and then their attention span has started to linger. So, after discussing the idea with one of my mentors after seeing it on a CD from my EDU 276 class, she is letting me borrow a couple to try it out! I am hoping with the addition of something fun, it will keep my non-verbal awake and my pre-school/k entertained (intoon) with the lesson.
I overall am truly loving my position and my students. I feel blessed to have this opportunity and am looking forward to next year as room 119 teacher again!
Smile,
Christin
Christin,
ReplyDeleteYour continued positive outlook and reflection is amazing! I look forward to reading your blog entry each week and "listening" to you as you discuss your journey--as you put it, the highs and lows. I can't wait to hear how your puppet is introduced and the response your students have to it. Great work!