Week one of teaching is in the books!
What an awesome and exhausting week. I have been blessed with great co workers, mentors, and students.
My homeroom is made up of 16 students. They are a little (okay very very) chatty, but they are also very sweet and extremely helpful. My favorite part of the week was being greeted first thing in the morning with goodmorning hugs and left each day with hugs and "I love you'd."
While procedures, instruction, and curriculum are considered necessities in the classroom I took time to instill in my students over the course of the first week that no matter what we are a classroom family. My students thought it was silly when I told them that they have two mommas now- their home momma and their school momma (me). They also gasped when I told them that now they have 15 more brothers and sisters. However, I have seen my sweet babies embrace the classroom family model. They are quick to help a neighbor, they encourage one another like you would not believe, and they know without a shadow of a doubt that I will fiercely protect them, that I love them, and that I want to see them succeed.
I am looking forward to watching their growth this year and sharing it here with you!
Funny moment of the week:
I wore my hair like this on Thursday: Find picture here and...
One of my kids said "Miss Everett, you got pizza roll hair!"
Ways you can pray for my kiddos this week:
1. They have a quiz in thursday
2. Pray they are focused and attentive
3. Pray they feel loved and encouraged each day
Ways you can pray for me this week:
1. Rest each night
2. Patience
3. The ability to give consequences when needed (it's hard to punish consistently)
Thank you!!!
Monday, September 4, 2017
Friday, April 28, 2017
4.28.17
Rate
I would rate this week a 5 because we are so close to the end and I GOT A JOB!!!
Observe
This week, as I observed 5 other classrooms it was hard to sit back and just observe after teaching for ten weeks. However, I learned so much in these classrooms. It was a great experience to see other schools and see how other teachers do things.
Reflect
This week my observations taught me that each school is unique and has its own way of doing things, just like each teacher is unique and has their own way of doing things.
Focus
This week I only had to focus on my classroom observations and finishing up final edits my portfolio video. I stayed focused and accomplished my goals for the week.
Be Productive
This week I was very productive and accomplished the goals I set for myself.
Have Courage
I do not think fear or apprehension held me back this week.
Begin Anew
Next week I will spend my last few days of student teaching with my kiddos and prepare to present my portfolio. I am a little nervous about presenting the portfolio.
Data
This week I did not necessarily analyze student data because I was barely at my school, but I analyzed my observation data to determine what I learned from these experiences and what I would like to carry into my future classroom.
Advice
I would advise student teachers to get some rest and enjoy the little time we have left with our students! We made it y'all!
NCTCS
This week I observed NCTCS 4d, "Teachers integrate and utilize technology in their instruction.” Two teachers I observed used technology tools I had not seen or heard of before. They used Clickers, which is similar to pluckers but the students have the technology rather than the teacher, and Hot Dots, a reading comprehension tool.
Portfolio
My portfolio is complete!
University Supervisor
My CE and I have no questions or concerns. Thank you for all you have done for us this semester!
I would rate this week a 5 because we are so close to the end and I GOT A JOB!!!
Observe
This week, as I observed 5 other classrooms it was hard to sit back and just observe after teaching for ten weeks. However, I learned so much in these classrooms. It was a great experience to see other schools and see how other teachers do things.
Reflect
This week my observations taught me that each school is unique and has its own way of doing things, just like each teacher is unique and has their own way of doing things.
Focus
This week I only had to focus on my classroom observations and finishing up final edits my portfolio video. I stayed focused and accomplished my goals for the week.
Be Productive
This week I was very productive and accomplished the goals I set for myself.
Have Courage
I do not think fear or apprehension held me back this week.
Begin Anew
Next week I will spend my last few days of student teaching with my kiddos and prepare to present my portfolio. I am a little nervous about presenting the portfolio.
Data
This week I did not necessarily analyze student data because I was barely at my school, but I analyzed my observation data to determine what I learned from these experiences and what I would like to carry into my future classroom.
Advice
I would advise student teachers to get some rest and enjoy the little time we have left with our students! We made it y'all!
NCTCS
This week I observed NCTCS 4d, "Teachers integrate and utilize technology in their instruction.” Two teachers I observed used technology tools I had not seen or heard of before. They used Clickers, which is similar to pluckers but the students have the technology rather than the teacher, and Hot Dots, a reading comprehension tool.
Portfolio
My portfolio is complete!
University Supervisor
My CE and I have no questions or concerns. Thank you for all you have done for us this semester!
Thursday, April 13, 2017
4.13.17
Rate
I would rate this week a 5. It was an awesome week and now it's finally spring break!!!
Observe
This week I was pleasantly surprised by how much I am still learning from my CE as I sit back and observe her. Yes, I observed her before but it is different now that I have been the one in front of the classroom for 10 weeks.
Reflect
This week my work/experiences taught me that you are never finished learning. There is always room for improvement and bettering yourself as an educator. You can learn these ways to improve yourself by observing veteran teachers.
Focus
While I would like to spend break doing as little as possible. I need to do a little portfolio work so that it will be ready to fall into place upon our return to campus.
Be Productive
This week, I could have spent more time working on Portfolio work. I had a lot of other things going on and didn't make as much time for the portfolio. I feel a little behind now.
Have Courage
I do not think fear or apprehension held me back at all this week.
Begin Anew
My first logical step for next week is to get some rest. Then the next step would be finalizing my classroom management piece and philosophy for the Portfolio.
Data
This week, I analyzed Mock EOG scores and responses to help my CE determine areas students really need to focus on for review when we return from spring break. Our students completely bombed multi-step word problems on the Mock Math EOG. This was because students do not take the time to analyze the problem they are solving. When I taught math, we constantly identified what we knew and what we needed to know after reading a word problem, before ever solving the problem. However, when students work alone, they tend to "forget" to analyze the problem. When my CE reviewed with the students, they realized they made so many careless mistakes because they did not analyze. My CE plans to continue enforcing and practicing analysis of word problems. Though I am not currently teaching math, I was able to help my CE plan a lesson for review.
Advice
Take lots of pictures! These are the days you want to remember. When your students ask you to wear converses so you'll match, do it and take a picture. When the Tar Heels win the NCAA Championship, wear Carolina Blue and take a picture or when your students run in the Fun Run, go and cheer them on (and, you guessed it, take a picture).
I would rate this week a 5. It was an awesome week and now it's finally spring break!!!
Observe
This week I was pleasantly surprised by how much I am still learning from my CE as I sit back and observe her. Yes, I observed her before but it is different now that I have been the one in front of the classroom for 10 weeks.
Reflect
This week my work/experiences taught me that you are never finished learning. There is always room for improvement and bettering yourself as an educator. You can learn these ways to improve yourself by observing veteran teachers.
Focus
While I would like to spend break doing as little as possible. I need to do a little portfolio work so that it will be ready to fall into place upon our return to campus.
Be Productive
This week, I could have spent more time working on Portfolio work. I had a lot of other things going on and didn't make as much time for the portfolio. I feel a little behind now.
Have Courage
I do not think fear or apprehension held me back at all this week.
Begin Anew
My first logical step for next week is to get some rest. Then the next step would be finalizing my classroom management piece and philosophy for the Portfolio.
Data
This week, I analyzed Mock EOG scores and responses to help my CE determine areas students really need to focus on for review when we return from spring break. Our students completely bombed multi-step word problems on the Mock Math EOG. This was because students do not take the time to analyze the problem they are solving. When I taught math, we constantly identified what we knew and what we needed to know after reading a word problem, before ever solving the problem. However, when students work alone, they tend to "forget" to analyze the problem. When my CE reviewed with the students, they realized they made so many careless mistakes because they did not analyze. My CE plans to continue enforcing and practicing analysis of word problems. Though I am not currently teaching math, I was able to help my CE plan a lesson for review.
Advice
Take lots of pictures! These are the days you want to remember. When your students ask you to wear converses so you'll match, do it and take a picture. When the Tar Heels win the NCAA Championship, wear Carolina Blue and take a picture or when your students run in the Fun Run, go and cheer them on (and, you guessed it, take a picture).
NCTCS
This week I think I grew in the area of NCTCS 4c (using a variety of instructional materials). This week, I only taught Science. This was odd for me to only teach one subject, but I taught about animal adaptations. On Monday we read an article about animal adaptations and on Tuesday, students performed a skit about animal adaptations. We had a field trip on Wednesday, but today students will research an animal of their choosing to determine the animals adaptations, predators, behaviors, and how it uses these adaptations and behaviors to protect itself from predators.
Portfolio
Next week, I will finalize my classroom management piece and philosophy for the Portfolio.
University Supervisor
At this time my CE and I have no questions or concerns.
Thursday, April 6, 2017
4.7.17
Rate
I would rate this week a 4 out of 5. It was hard stepping back, even though I only handed back math. My kids don't seem to understand and ask each day, "Why aren't you teaching us anymore Miss Everett?"
Observe
This week I was pleasantly surprised by the fact that I applied for a job on Saturday afternoon and had a FaceTime interview with that same school on Monday afternoon. It is becoming real that in a few weeks we will graduate and in a few months we will have classrooms of our own.
Reflect
This week I was amazed at my kids' response to me stepping back. They adjusted well to my CE taking over Math, but still each day asked why I wasn't teaching it anymore and when I would teach math again.
Focus
This weekend I am going to focus on editing my Philosophy and adding to my behavior plan/classroom management piece.
Be Productive
This week, it felt hard to focus and get a lot accomplished. I felt like I was forcing myself to do work after school each day. I'm not sure why, but I hope to rid myself of this feeling over the weekend.
Have Courage
This week, I was a bit nervous going into the interview, but I was myself and shared what I knew with the principal. I feel that though apprehension and indecision can arise, student teaching has prepared me for interviews and a future job. The nerves quickly faded as I began talking with the principal.
Begin Anew
This weekend I am going to push myself to work and to get out of the mode of having to force myself to complete tasks.
Data
This week, I analyzed and observed student responses to review/study questions throughout our social studies lessons on Monday and Tuesday and modified my Wednesday lesson to best serve my students. I realized students either were not studying at home like they should or were not retaining the information. To combat this or balance this, we did an in class study session on Wednesday. First, students used their study guides to quiz one another. Then, I used Plickers to quiz students. Students still needed to study after school, but Plickers showed improvement from last week's SS quiz grades and Monday and Tuesday review/study responses.
Advice
I would advise you to stay on top of things and try to have as much finished before spring break as possible. None of us want to work on assignments over break!
NCTCS
This week I think I grew in the area of NCTCS 3b ("encourages students to investigate the content area to expand their knowledge and satisfy their natural curiosity"). My students were so interested in our reading lessons this week. We were reading myths and studying mythology. The students were excited about reading each day and came to class with facts about gods and goddesses they had looked up at home. Several students checked out mythology books while at the library on Tuesday and they even pretended to be gods and goddesses at lunch and on the playground. It was the cutest and coolest thing ever.
Portfolio
This weekend I am going to work on editing my Philosophy and adding to my behavior plan/classroom management piece.
University Supervisor
At this time my CE and I have no questions.
I would rate this week a 4 out of 5. It was hard stepping back, even though I only handed back math. My kids don't seem to understand and ask each day, "Why aren't you teaching us anymore Miss Everett?"
Observe
This week I was pleasantly surprised by the fact that I applied for a job on Saturday afternoon and had a FaceTime interview with that same school on Monday afternoon. It is becoming real that in a few weeks we will graduate and in a few months we will have classrooms of our own.
Reflect
This week I was amazed at my kids' response to me stepping back. They adjusted well to my CE taking over Math, but still each day asked why I wasn't teaching it anymore and when I would teach math again.
Focus
This weekend I am going to focus on editing my Philosophy and adding to my behavior plan/classroom management piece.
Be Productive
This week, it felt hard to focus and get a lot accomplished. I felt like I was forcing myself to do work after school each day. I'm not sure why, but I hope to rid myself of this feeling over the weekend.
Have Courage
This week, I was a bit nervous going into the interview, but I was myself and shared what I knew with the principal. I feel that though apprehension and indecision can arise, student teaching has prepared me for interviews and a future job. The nerves quickly faded as I began talking with the principal.
Begin Anew
This weekend I am going to push myself to work and to get out of the mode of having to force myself to complete tasks.
Data
This week, I analyzed and observed student responses to review/study questions throughout our social studies lessons on Monday and Tuesday and modified my Wednesday lesson to best serve my students. I realized students either were not studying at home like they should or were not retaining the information. To combat this or balance this, we did an in class study session on Wednesday. First, students used their study guides to quiz one another. Then, I used Plickers to quiz students. Students still needed to study after school, but Plickers showed improvement from last week's SS quiz grades and Monday and Tuesday review/study responses.
Advice
I would advise you to stay on top of things and try to have as much finished before spring break as possible. None of us want to work on assignments over break!
NCTCS
This week I think I grew in the area of NCTCS 3b ("encourages students to investigate the content area to expand their knowledge and satisfy their natural curiosity"). My students were so interested in our reading lessons this week. We were reading myths and studying mythology. The students were excited about reading each day and came to class with facts about gods and goddesses they had looked up at home. Several students checked out mythology books while at the library on Tuesday and they even pretended to be gods and goddesses at lunch and on the playground. It was the cutest and coolest thing ever.
Portfolio
This weekend I am going to work on editing my Philosophy and adding to my behavior plan/classroom management piece.
University Supervisor
At this time my CE and I have no questions.
Friday, March 31, 2017
3.31.17
Rate
I would rate this week a 5 out of 5. It was my last week of the 10 weeks, my kids were well behaved, and I got a lot accomplished today.
Observe
This week I was pleasantly surprised by my resume appointment. I made an appointment with career development to look over my resume. I didn't feel very confident in the resume just because I had never made one before, but the staff was helpful and only suggested a few changes to positively impact my resume.
Reflect
This week I was just amazed in the fact that I completed my 5th observation and that it was my final week of full student teaching. I am going to have a hard time sitting back and observing during math next week.
Focus
This weekend I am going to focus on making edits to my resume and philosophy, as well as making a list of video clips I would like to include in my philosophy video.
Be Productive
This week I spent my time wisely. I also used the work day today to work ahead on some things and rearrange my students' desks.
Have Courage
I do not feel that apprehension or indecision held me back at all this week. I feel confident in sharing my ideas with the 4th grade team, other teachers, and administration.
Begin Anew
This weekend, I am going to focus on revisions of my resume and philosophy, as well as getting materials ready for my week next week.
Data
Yesterday, after grading SS tests, I realized my students were struggling with the three branches of our state government and would benefit from more learning experiences and more time focusing on the material. I decided to completely re-write my SS plans today to focus on reviewing the material and some project based learning to really help students connect with the material. After spending another week with the material, students will take a re-test next week.
Advice
I would advise you to enjoy the time with your kids, even the little things, because even though student teaching can be stressful, you'll miss that time when you start stepping back.
NCTCS
This week I think I grew in the area of NCTCS 5a (teachers analyze student learning). Though I wasn't pleased with the outcome of the SS test, it felt good to call the shots and move things around to give students more time and practice with the material. I told my CE afterwards, but felt confident in my decision enough to where I did not first ask for permission. She agreed with my decision though and liked that I made the call on my own.
Portfolio
This weekend I will be editing my resume and philosophy.
University Supervisor
My CE and I have no questions at this time.
I would rate this week a 5 out of 5. It was my last week of the 10 weeks, my kids were well behaved, and I got a lot accomplished today.
Observe
This week I was pleasantly surprised by my resume appointment. I made an appointment with career development to look over my resume. I didn't feel very confident in the resume just because I had never made one before, but the staff was helpful and only suggested a few changes to positively impact my resume.
Reflect
This week I was just amazed in the fact that I completed my 5th observation and that it was my final week of full student teaching. I am going to have a hard time sitting back and observing during math next week.
Focus
This weekend I am going to focus on making edits to my resume and philosophy, as well as making a list of video clips I would like to include in my philosophy video.
Be Productive
This week I spent my time wisely. I also used the work day today to work ahead on some things and rearrange my students' desks.
Have Courage
I do not feel that apprehension or indecision held me back at all this week. I feel confident in sharing my ideas with the 4th grade team, other teachers, and administration.
Begin Anew
This weekend, I am going to focus on revisions of my resume and philosophy, as well as getting materials ready for my week next week.
Data
Yesterday, after grading SS tests, I realized my students were struggling with the three branches of our state government and would benefit from more learning experiences and more time focusing on the material. I decided to completely re-write my SS plans today to focus on reviewing the material and some project based learning to really help students connect with the material. After spending another week with the material, students will take a re-test next week.
Advice
I would advise you to enjoy the time with your kids, even the little things, because even though student teaching can be stressful, you'll miss that time when you start stepping back.
NCTCS
This week I think I grew in the area of NCTCS 5a (teachers analyze student learning). Though I wasn't pleased with the outcome of the SS test, it felt good to call the shots and move things around to give students more time and practice with the material. I told my CE afterwards, but felt confident in my decision enough to where I did not first ask for permission. She agreed with my decision though and liked that I made the call on my own.
Portfolio
This weekend I will be editing my resume and philosophy.
University Supervisor
My CE and I have no questions at this time.
Thursday, March 23, 2017
3.24.17
Rate
I would rate this week a 3 out of 5. The week just felt really long and I was exhausted after completing and turning in edTPA.
Observe
This week I was pleasantly surprised by how little I have left to do to meet all standards of the NCTCS rubric. After my 5th observation, I now need to focus in on 3c, 4a, and 4f.
Reflect
This week I felt like a big weight had been lifted when I turned in the edTPA assignments.
Focus
This weekend, I am going to focus on completing my resume and getting my philosophy close to being finished.
Be Productive
This week I think I spent my time wisely. I got a lot accomplished and am ready to take on Week 10!
Have Courage
I don't really feel like apprehension and indecision hold me back anymore.
Begin Anew
This weekend, I am going to clear all mental clutter of edTPA and put all of my attention on resume and philosophy work.
Data
This week, I realized students were not getting something we did in WIN and needed more time and explanation to complete the assignment. I decided to nix the next days WIN lesson so that I could use that time to work with students on the assignment and provide assistance where needed.
Advice
FINISH STRONG! We're tired and ready to be done, but Keep Pushing!!!!! Our kids deserve our best!
NCTCS
This week I think I grew in the area of NCTCS 2b (diversity in the classroom). I have a hispanic student and we have been incorporating Spanish terms into our science lessons. This student's face lit up when I first introduced the Spanish words, but seeing the way other students have taken to it is really cool! They love telling me the terms in Spanish when we review.
Portfolio
This weekend, I am going to knock out my resume and get close to finishing my philosophy.
University Supervisor
My CE and I have no questions at this time.
I would rate this week a 3 out of 5. The week just felt really long and I was exhausted after completing and turning in edTPA.
Observe
This week I was pleasantly surprised by how little I have left to do to meet all standards of the NCTCS rubric. After my 5th observation, I now need to focus in on 3c, 4a, and 4f.
Reflect
This week I felt like a big weight had been lifted when I turned in the edTPA assignments.
Focus
This weekend, I am going to focus on completing my resume and getting my philosophy close to being finished.
Be Productive
This week I think I spent my time wisely. I got a lot accomplished and am ready to take on Week 10!
Have Courage
I don't really feel like apprehension and indecision hold me back anymore.
Begin Anew
This weekend, I am going to clear all mental clutter of edTPA and put all of my attention on resume and philosophy work.
Data
This week, I realized students were not getting something we did in WIN and needed more time and explanation to complete the assignment. I decided to nix the next days WIN lesson so that I could use that time to work with students on the assignment and provide assistance where needed.
Advice
FINISH STRONG! We're tired and ready to be done, but Keep Pushing!!!!! Our kids deserve our best!
NCTCS
This week I think I grew in the area of NCTCS 2b (diversity in the classroom). I have a hispanic student and we have been incorporating Spanish terms into our science lessons. This student's face lit up when I first introduced the Spanish words, but seeing the way other students have taken to it is really cool! They love telling me the terms in Spanish when we review.
Portfolio
This weekend, I am going to knock out my resume and get close to finishing my philosophy.
University Supervisor
My CE and I have no questions at this time.
Friday, March 17, 2017
3.17.17
Rate
I would rate this week a 4 out of 5. My kids were very hyper/talkative today, I'm not sure if it was because it was St. Patrick's day or what!
Observe
This week, I was pleasantly surprised by just how sweet my students are. My students are constantly willing to help a classmate or me and are so encouraging to one another. We played a review game yesterday to review for our novel test today. Students were able to steal points from other teams by answering correctly and then were able to steal even more if they made a basket in an over the door hoop. When students went up to shoot, all classmates cheered them on and if they missed the basket, their classmates still clapped and told them good job. I was so proud of the love they have for one another.
Reflect
This week, I was a little stressed because of trying to get edTPA finished up. However, I do not have much left and it should all be finished tomorrow, which will be very nice.
Focus
This weekend I need to focus on finishing and uploading edTPA to TaskStream. I know that there are other things I could begin working on after completing and turning in edTPA, but this weekend I am going to take some "me" time when that is off my plate.
Be Productive
This week was very productive, despite how unfocused I felt because of the extreme quietness on campus. I was able to finish up my plans last night which gives me plenty of time to complete the last pieces of edTPA.
Have Courage
This week, apprehension and indecision did not really hold me back. I found some great ideas to contribute to the plans for the coming weeks in science, math, and reading. It felt really good to share these ideas with the 4th grade team and them to accept them and share that they don't want me to graduate and leave them.
Begin Anew
This weekend, I will not really begin anew. I will finish up edTPA and start fresh on Monday. Next week, I plan to begin anew by finishing my resume and my philosophy.
Data
This week, I used test responses from my math edTPA assessment to guide and plan my re-teaching lesson and re-test. This allowed me to see areas of the material that students needed more practice and teaching and meet them where they were.
Advice
I would advise you to not forget to be real with your students. I think my students relate to me more when we have some down time (recess, lunch, morning work) and I share personal stories or make connections between myself and them. My students remember these things and I think it makes teaching them easier because they see me as a person as well as a teacher.
NCTCS
This week, I think I grew in the area of NCTCS 5 (teachers reflect on their practice). I looked at assessment data and used that data to plan a reteaching experience for students to continue practice in areas they performed poorly in on the test. This was a cool experience to see exactly what the students did not get and then to bring them up to understanding of the material.
Portfolio
This weekend, I will begin completing my Math edTPA tasks.
University Supervisor
At this time, my CE and I do not have any questions
I would rate this week a 4 out of 5. My kids were very hyper/talkative today, I'm not sure if it was because it was St. Patrick's day or what!
Observe
This week, I was pleasantly surprised by just how sweet my students are. My students are constantly willing to help a classmate or me and are so encouraging to one another. We played a review game yesterday to review for our novel test today. Students were able to steal points from other teams by answering correctly and then were able to steal even more if they made a basket in an over the door hoop. When students went up to shoot, all classmates cheered them on and if they missed the basket, their classmates still clapped and told them good job. I was so proud of the love they have for one another.
Reflect
This week, I was a little stressed because of trying to get edTPA finished up. However, I do not have much left and it should all be finished tomorrow, which will be very nice.
Focus
This weekend I need to focus on finishing and uploading edTPA to TaskStream. I know that there are other things I could begin working on after completing and turning in edTPA, but this weekend I am going to take some "me" time when that is off my plate.
Be Productive
This week was very productive, despite how unfocused I felt because of the extreme quietness on campus. I was able to finish up my plans last night which gives me plenty of time to complete the last pieces of edTPA.
Have Courage
This week, apprehension and indecision did not really hold me back. I found some great ideas to contribute to the plans for the coming weeks in science, math, and reading. It felt really good to share these ideas with the 4th grade team and them to accept them and share that they don't want me to graduate and leave them.
Begin Anew
This weekend, I will not really begin anew. I will finish up edTPA and start fresh on Monday. Next week, I plan to begin anew by finishing my resume and my philosophy.
Data
This week, I used test responses from my math edTPA assessment to guide and plan my re-teaching lesson and re-test. This allowed me to see areas of the material that students needed more practice and teaching and meet them where they were.
Advice
I would advise you to not forget to be real with your students. I think my students relate to me more when we have some down time (recess, lunch, morning work) and I share personal stories or make connections between myself and them. My students remember these things and I think it makes teaching them easier because they see me as a person as well as a teacher.
NCTCS
This week, I think I grew in the area of NCTCS 5 (teachers reflect on their practice). I looked at assessment data and used that data to plan a reteaching experience for students to continue practice in areas they performed poorly in on the test. This was a cool experience to see exactly what the students did not get and then to bring them up to understanding of the material.
Portfolio
This weekend, I will begin completing my Math edTPA tasks.
University Supervisor
At this time, my CE and I do not have any questions
Friday, March 10, 2017
3.10.17
Rate
I would rate this week a 5 out of 5. It was a great week overall!
Observe
This week, I was pleasantly surprised by my students' engagement in my math lessons. I was doing edTPA and I feel like this had a big part in the engagement level. However, I complete ownership of the lessons helped me to find practice activities that were more my style of teaching rather than my CE's. After watching these lessons this week, my CE has shared that she would like to work on including different assignments and activities in her own lessons that get the students excited about learning.
Reflect
This week was the first week that I did not let student teaching and things I needed to get done stress me out, and it felt really great! I'm not really sure what I did differently this week than all the others, but I want to find out and keep doing this. I feel like I was able to accomplish more because I wasn't so worried over the next task or other things I had going on.
Focus
This weekend I will gather the last materials needed for wrapping up my Math edTPA lessons next week. I will also be working on the Math edTPA Tasks.
Be Productive
This week was a very productive week. I'm not sure that I could have spent more or less time doing any specific tasks.
Have Courage
This week, apprehension and fear made me nervous to lead Parent Teacher Conferences. I was unsure about starting the first one. I wanted my CE to do one so I could mimic her or see how it is done. However, she pushed me to start it and said she'd step in or add things if I needed her. After leading the first conference, I felt much more confident and lead all the other conferences. It felt good to have that under my belt and know that I can handle this next year.
Begin Anew
This weekend, I will begin anew by starting on my Math edTPA assignments. It's hard to believe they are due in a little over a week.
Data
This week I looked over DIBELS Data and grades to prepare for the Parent Teacher Conferences. I used this data and formative assessment data I have collected to share student successes and areas of weakness with parents. It was cool to know that besides the DIBELS Data, all data shared was data I had collected and a reflection of my teaching.
Advice
I would like to advise student teachers to finish strong! We are so close to the end, spring has sprung, and like our kids we'd much rather be outside, on a beach, or anywhere but our classrooms. BUTTTT...FINISH STRONG! Don't let those things distract you from the prize!
NCTCS
This week, I think I grew in the area of NCTCS 2e (communication and collaboration with parents). I lead parent teacher conferences yesterday and was able to communicate directly to parents. I shared student successes and weaknesses. After sharing, the parent and I talked about ways that I can help the student while they are at school and what the parent can do at home to help the student. Each parent I talked to was very positive and thanked me for suggesting ways they could help too.
Portfolio
This weekend, I will begin working on Math edTPA tasks.
University Supervisor
At this time, my CE and I do not have any questions.
I would rate this week a 5 out of 5. It was a great week overall!
Observe
This week, I was pleasantly surprised by my students' engagement in my math lessons. I was doing edTPA and I feel like this had a big part in the engagement level. However, I complete ownership of the lessons helped me to find practice activities that were more my style of teaching rather than my CE's. After watching these lessons this week, my CE has shared that she would like to work on including different assignments and activities in her own lessons that get the students excited about learning.
Reflect
This week was the first week that I did not let student teaching and things I needed to get done stress me out, and it felt really great! I'm not really sure what I did differently this week than all the others, but I want to find out and keep doing this. I feel like I was able to accomplish more because I wasn't so worried over the next task or other things I had going on.
Focus
This weekend I will gather the last materials needed for wrapping up my Math edTPA lessons next week. I will also be working on the Math edTPA Tasks.
Be Productive
This week was a very productive week. I'm not sure that I could have spent more or less time doing any specific tasks.
Have Courage
This week, apprehension and fear made me nervous to lead Parent Teacher Conferences. I was unsure about starting the first one. I wanted my CE to do one so I could mimic her or see how it is done. However, she pushed me to start it and said she'd step in or add things if I needed her. After leading the first conference, I felt much more confident and lead all the other conferences. It felt good to have that under my belt and know that I can handle this next year.
Begin Anew
This weekend, I will begin anew by starting on my Math edTPA assignments. It's hard to believe they are due in a little over a week.
Data
This week I looked over DIBELS Data and grades to prepare for the Parent Teacher Conferences. I used this data and formative assessment data I have collected to share student successes and areas of weakness with parents. It was cool to know that besides the DIBELS Data, all data shared was data I had collected and a reflection of my teaching.
Advice
I would like to advise student teachers to finish strong! We are so close to the end, spring has sprung, and like our kids we'd much rather be outside, on a beach, or anywhere but our classrooms. BUTTTT...FINISH STRONG! Don't let those things distract you from the prize!
NCTCS
This week, I think I grew in the area of NCTCS 2e (communication and collaboration with parents). I lead parent teacher conferences yesterday and was able to communicate directly to parents. I shared student successes and weaknesses. After sharing, the parent and I talked about ways that I can help the student while they are at school and what the parent can do at home to help the student. Each parent I talked to was very positive and thanked me for suggesting ways they could help too.
Portfolio
This weekend, I will begin working on Math edTPA tasks.
University Supervisor
At this time, my CE and I do not have any questions.
Friday, March 3, 2017
3.3.17
Rate
I would rate this week a 4 out of 5, more because of my own tiredness than the kids or the teaching.
Observe
This week I was pleasantly surprised by the outcomes of my behavior plan. My plan is in place to benefit a student who has trouble focusing and frequently zones out during instruction. This week we implemented a check list on his desk. He gets a check mark for every 10 minutes that he is completely focused. This week he only missed getting 5 or 6 checks total. It was almost like working with a completely different child. His test scores also improved tremendously this week, jumping 24 points in math and 14 points in reading. I am very pleased and hope this trend continues.
Reflect
This week, I realized what a huge difference taking time to figure out what works for a student can make. My behavior management student has become a new person this week and it's great!!!
Focus
This weekend I will focus on finishing up Task 3 and getting everything organized to teach edTPA math next week.
Be Productive
This week I could have been more productive in working on Task 3. However, I did not want to fall behind in my lesson planning as it is an all week job.
Have Courage
I do not feel that apprehension or fear held me back this week.
Begin Anew
This weekend, I want to have edTPA Reading Tasks finalized so I can begin fresh with edTPA Math next week and not have the stress of both assignments hanging over my head.
Data
This week, I got a lot of formative assessment data from math station time and was able to hone in on areas that my students really needed extra practice in preparation for their tests. For the most part, I think it paid off. However, I still had a few students with grades much lower than I would have liked to see.
Advice
I would like to tell student teachers to take this experience very seriously because it is preparing us to step into the real world in a few short months and lead classrooms of our own with no CE present.
NCTCS
This week, I would say I grew in the area of NCTCS 5a (teachers analyze student learning). Recording data in math centers and reading stations has been something I have struggled with this semester, but this week I think I finally got it. I created a table on Word and I printed it out and I can put student names in, what problem we are solving or what question I am asking and record student answers. This has proven to be a great tool to look back at and see where students need extra practice.
Portfolio
This weekend, I will be finishing my edTPA Reading and getting everything organized and prepared for my edTPA Math.
University Supervisor
After the observation this afternoon, my CE and I have no questions.
I would rate this week a 4 out of 5, more because of my own tiredness than the kids or the teaching.
Observe
This week I was pleasantly surprised by the outcomes of my behavior plan. My plan is in place to benefit a student who has trouble focusing and frequently zones out during instruction. This week we implemented a check list on his desk. He gets a check mark for every 10 minutes that he is completely focused. This week he only missed getting 5 or 6 checks total. It was almost like working with a completely different child. His test scores also improved tremendously this week, jumping 24 points in math and 14 points in reading. I am very pleased and hope this trend continues.
Reflect
This week, I realized what a huge difference taking time to figure out what works for a student can make. My behavior management student has become a new person this week and it's great!!!
Focus
This weekend I will focus on finishing up Task 3 and getting everything organized to teach edTPA math next week.
Be Productive
This week I could have been more productive in working on Task 3. However, I did not want to fall behind in my lesson planning as it is an all week job.
Have Courage
I do not feel that apprehension or fear held me back this week.
Begin Anew
This weekend, I want to have edTPA Reading Tasks finalized so I can begin fresh with edTPA Math next week and not have the stress of both assignments hanging over my head.
Data
This week, I got a lot of formative assessment data from math station time and was able to hone in on areas that my students really needed extra practice in preparation for their tests. For the most part, I think it paid off. However, I still had a few students with grades much lower than I would have liked to see.
Advice
I would like to tell student teachers to take this experience very seriously because it is preparing us to step into the real world in a few short months and lead classrooms of our own with no CE present.
NCTCS
This week, I would say I grew in the area of NCTCS 5a (teachers analyze student learning). Recording data in math centers and reading stations has been something I have struggled with this semester, but this week I think I finally got it. I created a table on Word and I printed it out and I can put student names in, what problem we are solving or what question I am asking and record student answers. This has proven to be a great tool to look back at and see where students need extra practice.
Portfolio
This weekend, I will be finishing my edTPA Reading and getting everything organized and prepared for my edTPA Math.
University Supervisor
After the observation this afternoon, my CE and I have no questions.
Friday, February 24, 2017
2.24.17
Rate
I would rate this week a 4 out of 5.
Observe
This week I was pleasantly surprised by the time improvement on writing lessons. I didn't believe it when we were told the process would become a lot faster, but they were right and it has.
Reflect
This week I learned that a lot of outside factors play into a student's life and those have to be taken into consideration throughout the school day.
Focus
This weekend, I need to focus on my edTPA work. My goal is to be completely finished with the reading tasks so I can begin planning the math learning segments.
Be Productive
This week, I felt that I was really productive. I don't know that there was much more I could have spent time doing.
Have Courage
This week, I had courage to ask my Hispanic student to share when she made a connection between a Spanish word and a word in our novel. I did not want to put her on the spot or embarrass her, but it was a great opportunity for her to share her culture with the class.
Begin Anew
This weekend, I plan to tackle the remaining pieces of my Reading edTPA.
Data
This week, we got a new-old student in our class. He was in our class from August-October and is now back. I analyzed his test scores and data to get an "on paper" understanding of this student.
Advice
I would like to tell student teachers to lean on one another. This week Ben reached out to me and I was able to share some things I was doing in my class. We are both teaching 4th grade, so I was able to share some materials I had created for him to incorporate into his own classroom. This was a neat experience.
NCTCS
This week I would say I grew in the area of NCTCS 2d by reaching out to my CTC to find out what she does at our school and what resources she could offer to help me as a teacher.
PortfolioThis weekend, I will be working on edTPA.
University SupervisorMy CE does not have any questions at this time.
I do not have any questions at this time.
I would rate this week a 4 out of 5.
Observe
This week I was pleasantly surprised by the time improvement on writing lessons. I didn't believe it when we were told the process would become a lot faster, but they were right and it has.
Reflect
This week I learned that a lot of outside factors play into a student's life and those have to be taken into consideration throughout the school day.
Focus
This weekend, I need to focus on my edTPA work. My goal is to be completely finished with the reading tasks so I can begin planning the math learning segments.
Be Productive
This week, I felt that I was really productive. I don't know that there was much more I could have spent time doing.
Have Courage
This week, I had courage to ask my Hispanic student to share when she made a connection between a Spanish word and a word in our novel. I did not want to put her on the spot or embarrass her, but it was a great opportunity for her to share her culture with the class.
Begin Anew
This weekend, I plan to tackle the remaining pieces of my Reading edTPA.
Data
This week, we got a new-old student in our class. He was in our class from August-October and is now back. I analyzed his test scores and data to get an "on paper" understanding of this student.
Advice
I would like to tell student teachers to lean on one another. This week Ben reached out to me and I was able to share some things I was doing in my class. We are both teaching 4th grade, so I was able to share some materials I had created for him to incorporate into his own classroom. This was a neat experience.
NCTCS
This week I would say I grew in the area of NCTCS 2d by reaching out to my CTC to find out what she does at our school and what resources she could offer to help me as a teacher.
PortfolioThis weekend, I will be working on edTPA.
University SupervisorMy CE does not have any questions at this time.
I do not have any questions at this time.
Friday, February 17, 2017
2.17.17
Rate
I would give this week a 5 out of 5. My students were great and most everything went as planned.
Observe
This week I completed my edTPA lessons for Reading. My students were working on informative writing pieces. This went really well. They surprised me with how focused they were on the learning and how much they wrote.
Reflect
This week I learned that sometimes students don't accomplish everything you plan, but that's okay. I intended for more time spent editing and conferencing with my students about their writing so they could turn in final drafts. However, my students barely knew what a paragraph was on Monday and they ended up with full pages of writing on Thursday. Yes their writing still needs progress and they did not turn in perfect pieces, but that is okay.
Focus
This weekend I need to focus on Task 2 and 3 for my edTPA assignments.
Be Productive
This week I could have spent more time reading ahead on the chapters that I will be reading in our novel next week so I could have discussion questions prepared in advance.
Have Courage
This week I cannot think of a time where apprehension and indecision held me back.
Begin Anew
I plan to tackle as much of my edTPA work as I can this weekend so I can move forward next week and begin planning my edTPA math lessons.
Data
This week I analyzed student comprehension. I noticed that one student in particular is having trouble answering comprehension questions when asked in the whole group setting. However she performs well on comprehension tasks in a one on one setting and on tests. I almost think she may just get nervous answering in front of everyone. I am going to continue to monitor her and this situation.
Advice
I would advise other student teachers to reach out to parents. Today my students presented their research and writing in a Live Museum. Parents were invited. Though only 5 came, this was a time for me to talk with them and share information about their children.
NCTCS
This week I would say I grew in the area of NCTCS 4d, utilizing technology. Students used iPads in the reading station to review for their test today and to research famous African Americans.
Portfolio
This weekend, I will be working on edTPA task 2 and 3.
University Supervisor
My CE does not have any questions at this time.
I do not have any questions at this time.
Friday, February 10, 2017
2.10.17
Rate
I would rate this week a 4 out of 5 again. For some reason it seemed like a longer week than normal and my students were kind of crazy today.
Observe
This week I planned my edTPA Literacy Learning Progression and will teach it next week.
Reflect
I had my first observation this week. Mrs. Suttle had some great suggestions for how to improve my lessons and my own teaching practices. I began implementing these suggestions this week and will be using them completely next week.
Focus
I feel a little behind on portfolio work. I really need to buckle down this weekend and get some things knocked out (website and resume) to get myself back on track.
Be Productive
I could have spent less time feeling stressed this week. I am a natural stresser, I let everything stress me out. In the coming weeks I want to continue to be goal oriented, but not let my goals and weekly work stress me out.
Have Courage
This week apprehension and indecision impacted how I taught a little. I taught subtracting mixed numbers today and I felt that this lesson was not my best. I had to learn how to subtract fractions with regrouping before I could teach this material. I didn't feel confident in this lesson until I practiced with the students a few times.
Begin Anew
Getting all of my edTPA materials together is my first step in preparing for next week. I need to make rubrics and get everything organized so that it all runs smoothly.
Data
This week I analyzed student station work. In our reading small group time students have a Have to Do and Can Do list. They have the whole week to complete these tasks. Many students did not complete their work and several did not follow the directions given verbally and written on the assignments. This was disheartening because the students appear busy during the week, yet so many of them had not finished their work.
Advice
I would advise other student teachers to use the other teachers in their grade level and school as a resource. They have all been teaching longer than we have and have suggestions for how to improve our practice or make things run more smoothly. They may not come to us with these suggestions, but that doesn't mean we cannot ask!!!
NCTCS
This week, I really tried to make instruction relevant to students (NCTC3d). My students have been losing papers and assignments lately in the abyss of their desks. They have folders for each subject where assignments are kept until they are collected. I noticed students just shove papers in their desk when we transition from subject to subject and then have to dig through the mess to find the next set of papers needed. We had a discussion about personal responsibility this afternoon. I am going to give the students a set amount of time to clean out their desks on Monday and from then on I expect them to keep their desks organized and to be able to find papers quickly when I ask for them.
Portfolio
This weekend I am going to complete my PDP so it is ready when I am observed again. I am also going to prepare everything for my edTPA lessons.
University Supervisor
My CE does not have any questions at the moment.
I never heard back about my edTPA idea. I am assuming it is okay to use. I am excited for what I have planned and how my students perform.
I would rate this week a 4 out of 5 again. For some reason it seemed like a longer week than normal and my students were kind of crazy today.
Observe
This week I planned my edTPA Literacy Learning Progression and will teach it next week.
Reflect
I had my first observation this week. Mrs. Suttle had some great suggestions for how to improve my lessons and my own teaching practices. I began implementing these suggestions this week and will be using them completely next week.
Focus
I feel a little behind on portfolio work. I really need to buckle down this weekend and get some things knocked out (website and resume) to get myself back on track.
Be Productive
I could have spent less time feeling stressed this week. I am a natural stresser, I let everything stress me out. In the coming weeks I want to continue to be goal oriented, but not let my goals and weekly work stress me out.
Have Courage
This week apprehension and indecision impacted how I taught a little. I taught subtracting mixed numbers today and I felt that this lesson was not my best. I had to learn how to subtract fractions with regrouping before I could teach this material. I didn't feel confident in this lesson until I practiced with the students a few times.
Begin Anew
Getting all of my edTPA materials together is my first step in preparing for next week. I need to make rubrics and get everything organized so that it all runs smoothly.
Data
This week I analyzed student station work. In our reading small group time students have a Have to Do and Can Do list. They have the whole week to complete these tasks. Many students did not complete their work and several did not follow the directions given verbally and written on the assignments. This was disheartening because the students appear busy during the week, yet so many of them had not finished their work.
Advice
I would advise other student teachers to use the other teachers in their grade level and school as a resource. They have all been teaching longer than we have and have suggestions for how to improve our practice or make things run more smoothly. They may not come to us with these suggestions, but that doesn't mean we cannot ask!!!
NCTCS
This week, I really tried to make instruction relevant to students (NCTC3d). My students have been losing papers and assignments lately in the abyss of their desks. They have folders for each subject where assignments are kept until they are collected. I noticed students just shove papers in their desk when we transition from subject to subject and then have to dig through the mess to find the next set of papers needed. We had a discussion about personal responsibility this afternoon. I am going to give the students a set amount of time to clean out their desks on Monday and from then on I expect them to keep their desks organized and to be able to find papers quickly when I ask for them.
Portfolio
This weekend I am going to complete my PDP so it is ready when I am observed again. I am also going to prepare everything for my edTPA lessons.
University Supervisor
My CE does not have any questions at the moment.
I never heard back about my edTPA idea. I am assuming it is okay to use. I am excited for what I have planned and how my students perform.
Friday, February 3, 2017
2.3.17
Rate
I would rate this week a 4 out of 5. It was a great week, but not over the top.
Observe
Yesterday I taught a full day without my CE being present. She went on a field trip with her son. There was a substitute but she was just there because the rules say she had to be. I was surprised how much more confident I felt without my CE being present. I think when she's there I use her as a crutch to lean on or ask questions if I'm unsure of something, but when she was out I had to take control. It was a great day!
Reflect
Being alone with the kids taught me to believe in myself and to have confidence as I go into next week.
Focus
This past weekend I worked on my website. It is almost finished. I also got a late start on my plans because of PTO and Seminar. This week, I plan to complete my self-assessment and work on my PDP so they will be ready for my first observation on Monday.
Be Productive
I could have spent more time planning with the lessons that I had ahead of time. We had PTO on Monday night and the Seminar on Tuesday so I felt that I did not really get started until Wednesday night. Our team also made some last minute changes to the plans this afternoon and I am trying to adjust my plans accordingly. This has put me behind and makes me feel disorganized.
Have Courage
This week, I'm not sure that apprehension or indecision held me back. I felt that this week was great overall and that I managed the students and my time well.
Begin Anew
Letting go of the stress of this week is some mental clutter that needs to be cleared. I can't let this get the best of me. Moving forward, I want to focus more closely on the PDP and self evaluation this weekend.
Data
This week I analyzed student responses to test review questions in math and social studies. In math, I found specific skills that student groups needed to focus on before the test today and reviewed those skills in our math center time. In social studies, I realized the students needed another day of close review before our test, as many students were completely missing questions related to the test. We reviewed the information thoroughly on Thursday and took another review Plickers quiz. The students performed higher, but many were still not getting the information. I reminded students to study last night and even gave them some time to review the study guide with a partner before the test today. Several performed really well, while many bombed this test. It was a bit of a let down after all the time I spent reviewing and how I tried to make the learning relevant to the students. However, my CE reassured me that I had done a great job teaching the material and the students did not do their part by studying.
Advice
I would advise other student teachers to not get caught up in the data and scores. Think about your students as individuals and what they have going on in their lives. They may not have reached the benchmark score on DIBELS, but did they improve? Are they showing improvement in the classroom? Are they trying their hardest? Yes scores are important, but they are not everything. Remember to let your students know that you are proud of them.
NCTCS
This week, I think I grew in the area of NCTCS 5a, analyzing student learning. I saw that students were not getting the material and may or may not have been studying at home, so I used flexibility to build in some classroom study time before the test. I felt that this was the most beneficial way to assist my students.
Portfolio
I have begun work on my website and resume. I need to finish these tasks. I am also going to begin working on my PDP this weekend after completing a self-evaluation.
University Supervisor
At this time my CE does not have any questions for my University Supervisor.
Not thinking too far ahead, because right now is really important, but I would like to know when we need to begin applying or looking for places to apply for jobs for next year.
I would rate this week a 4 out of 5. It was a great week, but not over the top.
Observe
Yesterday I taught a full day without my CE being present. She went on a field trip with her son. There was a substitute but she was just there because the rules say she had to be. I was surprised how much more confident I felt without my CE being present. I think when she's there I use her as a crutch to lean on or ask questions if I'm unsure of something, but when she was out I had to take control. It was a great day!
Reflect
Being alone with the kids taught me to believe in myself and to have confidence as I go into next week.
Focus
This past weekend I worked on my website. It is almost finished. I also got a late start on my plans because of PTO and Seminar. This week, I plan to complete my self-assessment and work on my PDP so they will be ready for my first observation on Monday.
Be Productive
I could have spent more time planning with the lessons that I had ahead of time. We had PTO on Monday night and the Seminar on Tuesday so I felt that I did not really get started until Wednesday night. Our team also made some last minute changes to the plans this afternoon and I am trying to adjust my plans accordingly. This has put me behind and makes me feel disorganized.
Have Courage
This week, I'm not sure that apprehension or indecision held me back. I felt that this week was great overall and that I managed the students and my time well.
Begin Anew
Letting go of the stress of this week is some mental clutter that needs to be cleared. I can't let this get the best of me. Moving forward, I want to focus more closely on the PDP and self evaluation this weekend.
Data
This week I analyzed student responses to test review questions in math and social studies. In math, I found specific skills that student groups needed to focus on before the test today and reviewed those skills in our math center time. In social studies, I realized the students needed another day of close review before our test, as many students were completely missing questions related to the test. We reviewed the information thoroughly on Thursday and took another review Plickers quiz. The students performed higher, but many were still not getting the information. I reminded students to study last night and even gave them some time to review the study guide with a partner before the test today. Several performed really well, while many bombed this test. It was a bit of a let down after all the time I spent reviewing and how I tried to make the learning relevant to the students. However, my CE reassured me that I had done a great job teaching the material and the students did not do their part by studying.
Advice
I would advise other student teachers to not get caught up in the data and scores. Think about your students as individuals and what they have going on in their lives. They may not have reached the benchmark score on DIBELS, but did they improve? Are they showing improvement in the classroom? Are they trying their hardest? Yes scores are important, but they are not everything. Remember to let your students know that you are proud of them.
NCTCS
This week, I think I grew in the area of NCTCS 5a, analyzing student learning. I saw that students were not getting the material and may or may not have been studying at home, so I used flexibility to build in some classroom study time before the test. I felt that this was the most beneficial way to assist my students.
Portfolio
I have begun work on my website and resume. I need to finish these tasks. I am also going to begin working on my PDP this weekend after completing a self-evaluation.
University Supervisor
At this time my CE does not have any questions for my University Supervisor.
Not thinking too far ahead, because right now is really important, but I would like to know when we need to begin applying or looking for places to apply for jobs for next year.
Thursday, January 26, 2017
1.27.17
Rate
I would rate this week a 4 out of 5. I got a lot accomplished during the work days and began my student teaching this week. Wednesday went really well, but Thursday I felt unorganized and we had a fire drill which threw a loop in my plans. Overall it was not a bad week!
Observe
This week I also had another global awareness piece. My students went on a Real World Math Scavenger Hunt to find fractions relating to the world. These fractions included: the fraction of the worlds population made up by the USA, fraction of the world that does not have access to clean drinking water, electricity, internet, etc. The students loved it and were excited for math each day!
Reflect
My experiences this week taught me that being flexible is a huge aspect of teaching and that not having time for everything is not the end of the world. My social studies plan for Wednesday was a little longer than the time block. I was really worried about this, but my CE shared that "that happens a lot in teaching" and showed me how to shift a few things on Thursday to make time to finish up the social studies lesson.
Focus
This week I focused on working on my classroom website. I had anticipated finishing it last weekend, but building a website from scratch is hard work. Hopefully, I will find some time (after the edTPA training and a nap) to continue working and knock that off my list. I also want to begin working on my edTPA lessons so I can get those checked off the list as well and not have to stress over them towards the end of my ten weeks.
Be Productive
This week I could have spent more time sleeping. I need to find a healthy balance between work and sleep. It seems like I have too much to do to go to sleep early and end up working until 10:30 or 11. However, I am exhausted by Thursday night and feel very sluggish on Fridays.
Have Courage
This week I do not think I really faced any apprehension or indecision. I feel comfortable talking with my CE and the 4th grade team about anything and know that they would all do what they can to help me. My students were great this week and did not do much to test me.
Begin Anew
I need to clear the mental clutter of Thursday, when I felt unorganized and in disarray all day. I will begin anew, by learning all I can at the edTPA meeting and use that learning to shape my edTPA lessons.
Data
This week I really did not analyze any data. It was a short week and we did not have any tests. We will be doing a data dive next Thursday to reassign students to WIN groups.
Advice
I would advise student teachers to get as much sleep as possible while still getting assignments done. Sleep can make or break this experience. If you are too tired you are not on your A game for your kids and you can't focus on getting other assignments done. I need to follow this advise in the coming weeks as well.
NCTCS
This week I would say that I "used a variety of instructional methods" (NCTCS 4c). I took the standards, global awareness, and my students into consideration when planning the scavenger hunt. My students had never done something like this before, especially not in math. They were engaged and constantly looking forward to math time and the opportunity to find more fractions. I want to find ways like this to keep students interested in their learning.
At this time, my CE and I do not have any questions.
I would rate this week a 4 out of 5. I got a lot accomplished during the work days and began my student teaching this week. Wednesday went really well, but Thursday I felt unorganized and we had a fire drill which threw a loop in my plans. Overall it was not a bad week!
Observe
This week I also had another global awareness piece. My students went on a Real World Math Scavenger Hunt to find fractions relating to the world. These fractions included: the fraction of the worlds population made up by the USA, fraction of the world that does not have access to clean drinking water, electricity, internet, etc. The students loved it and were excited for math each day!
Reflect
My experiences this week taught me that being flexible is a huge aspect of teaching and that not having time for everything is not the end of the world. My social studies plan for Wednesday was a little longer than the time block. I was really worried about this, but my CE shared that "that happens a lot in teaching" and showed me how to shift a few things on Thursday to make time to finish up the social studies lesson.
Focus
This week I focused on working on my classroom website. I had anticipated finishing it last weekend, but building a website from scratch is hard work. Hopefully, I will find some time (after the edTPA training and a nap) to continue working and knock that off my list. I also want to begin working on my edTPA lessons so I can get those checked off the list as well and not have to stress over them towards the end of my ten weeks.
Be Productive
This week I could have spent more time sleeping. I need to find a healthy balance between work and sleep. It seems like I have too much to do to go to sleep early and end up working until 10:30 or 11. However, I am exhausted by Thursday night and feel very sluggish on Fridays.
Have Courage
This week I do not think I really faced any apprehension or indecision. I feel comfortable talking with my CE and the 4th grade team about anything and know that they would all do what they can to help me. My students were great this week and did not do much to test me.
Begin Anew
I need to clear the mental clutter of Thursday, when I felt unorganized and in disarray all day. I will begin anew, by learning all I can at the edTPA meeting and use that learning to shape my edTPA lessons.
Data
This week I really did not analyze any data. It was a short week and we did not have any tests. We will be doing a data dive next Thursday to reassign students to WIN groups.
Advice
I would advise student teachers to get as much sleep as possible while still getting assignments done. Sleep can make or break this experience. If you are too tired you are not on your A game for your kids and you can't focus on getting other assignments done. I need to follow this advise in the coming weeks as well.
NCTCS
This week I would say that I "used a variety of instructional methods" (NCTCS 4c). I took the standards, global awareness, and my students into consideration when planning the scavenger hunt. My students had never done something like this before, especially not in math. They were engaged and constantly looking forward to math time and the opportunity to find more fractions. I want to find ways like this to keep students interested in their learning.
At this time, my CE and I do not have any questions.
Friday, January 20, 2017
1.20.17
Rate
I would rate this week a 3 out of 5. Some of my lessons did not go as planned and the students seemed to push my buttons this week, trying to see what they could get away with. This was frustrating, but I made it through.
Observe
I accomplished a global awareness piece this week. My students are reading The Trumpet of the Swan. This novel is set in Montana and Canada. I used a Virtual Reality viewer to take my students on a "field trip" to these places. The students were so excited about learning and it made these places real to the students.
Reflect
I learned that things don't always go as planned, especially when school gets out early. Today we were going to take our tests in their normal blocked order, but had to rearrange things to benefit the students and get everything complete before the students left for the day.
Focus
My short term efforts and long term goals are still aligned thanks to my long term plan I created last week. I plan to work on my website this weekend and to get a lot of planning done during the planning days on Monday and Tuesday.
Be Productive
I could have spent less time overthinking my plans and remembering the KISS rule "Keep It Simple Student." Sometimes I make things harder on myself than they have to be.
Have Courage
I attended a staff professional development meeting after school today and I was nervous to share ideas with the staff, but I ended up gaining the courage and sharing my idea. Others liked the idea and complimented me after the meeting on having the courage to share.
Begin Anew
My first logical step for next week is to get to work on my website. I have been compiling tech tools and am ready to hit the ground running on this portion. I also need to sit down this weekend an don the planning days and discuss beginning my behavior program with a student in my class with my CE.
Data
This week, I graded math tests and saw that my students did not have a clear understanding of the material we learned and covered over the past two weeks, despite several reviews. This was disappointing because the students had performed well on review questions and assignments and seemed to really "get it." However, after talking with the other 4th grade teachers, very few students did well on this test. I have planned for a review day next week to review the material and to complete test corrections.
Advice
If I could advise other student teachers, I would tell them not to be afraid to use their voice. It can be scary or overwhelming in a large group of other teachers to share what you know or think, but thy can learn from us just as much as we can learn from them. Be proud of what you know and don't be afraid to share!
NCTCS
This week I feel like I began to "demonstrate leadership in the school" (NCTCS 1d). I attended the Guided Reading Professional Development meeting after school today and was able to work collaboratively with school personnel in a professional learning community. I shared rubrics as a way for students working independently during the GR time to be held accountable and to know explicit expectations for their independent work. I also found myself in conversations about teaching with a couple of the 5th grade teachers this week. This was exciting because I felt like I was and am beginning to be a part of the whole school atmosphere rather than just a part of the 4th grade team.
At this time my CE and I do not have any questions. We will be in touch if we do. Thanks!
I would rate this week a 3 out of 5. Some of my lessons did not go as planned and the students seemed to push my buttons this week, trying to see what they could get away with. This was frustrating, but I made it through.
Observe
I accomplished a global awareness piece this week. My students are reading The Trumpet of the Swan. This novel is set in Montana and Canada. I used a Virtual Reality viewer to take my students on a "field trip" to these places. The students were so excited about learning and it made these places real to the students.
Reflect
I learned that things don't always go as planned, especially when school gets out early. Today we were going to take our tests in their normal blocked order, but had to rearrange things to benefit the students and get everything complete before the students left for the day.
Focus
My short term efforts and long term goals are still aligned thanks to my long term plan I created last week. I plan to work on my website this weekend and to get a lot of planning done during the planning days on Monday and Tuesday.
Be Productive
I could have spent less time overthinking my plans and remembering the KISS rule "Keep It Simple Student." Sometimes I make things harder on myself than they have to be.
Have Courage
I attended a staff professional development meeting after school today and I was nervous to share ideas with the staff, but I ended up gaining the courage and sharing my idea. Others liked the idea and complimented me after the meeting on having the courage to share.
Begin Anew
My first logical step for next week is to get to work on my website. I have been compiling tech tools and am ready to hit the ground running on this portion. I also need to sit down this weekend an don the planning days and discuss beginning my behavior program with a student in my class with my CE.
Data
This week, I graded math tests and saw that my students did not have a clear understanding of the material we learned and covered over the past two weeks, despite several reviews. This was disappointing because the students had performed well on review questions and assignments and seemed to really "get it." However, after talking with the other 4th grade teachers, very few students did well on this test. I have planned for a review day next week to review the material and to complete test corrections.
Advice
If I could advise other student teachers, I would tell them not to be afraid to use their voice. It can be scary or overwhelming in a large group of other teachers to share what you know or think, but thy can learn from us just as much as we can learn from them. Be proud of what you know and don't be afraid to share!
NCTCS
This week I feel like I began to "demonstrate leadership in the school" (NCTCS 1d). I attended the Guided Reading Professional Development meeting after school today and was able to work collaboratively with school personnel in a professional learning community. I shared rubrics as a way for students working independently during the GR time to be held accountable and to know explicit expectations for their independent work. I also found myself in conversations about teaching with a couple of the 5th grade teachers this week. This was exciting because I felt like I was and am beginning to be a part of the whole school atmosphere rather than just a part of the 4th grade team.
At this time my CE and I do not have any questions. We will be in touch if we do. Thanks!
Friday, January 13, 2017
1.13.16
Week of January 13th
Rate
I would rate this week a 3 out of 5 because of the snow days and my students were hyped up when they returned to school. The really long weekend, snow, 2 hour delay, full moon, and Friday the 13th all contributed to the craziness. Though my students were extremely chatty that was the worst of the behavior.
Observe
This week I took over math instruction I was surprised by how attentive the students were. My students are usually inattentive because math is at the end of the day after lunch, recess, and specials but this week they were all on task and wanted to share their answers. I'm sure this was because I was a new face. I will have to continually look for ways to make math fun, engaging, and relatable.
Reflect
Though my CE and I used the work day to work on plans and clean the classroom, other teachers on our hall chose to socialize and not do much of anything. Then at planning they complained about feeling rushed to get everything together. This taught me that being proactive and using planning/work days to my advantage is always a good thing.
Focus
Currently my short term efforts and long term goals are still aligned. This weekend I really need to sit down and set time lines for big portfolio assignments so they do fall through the cracks and they can be completed in a timely manner.
Be Productive
This weekend, I could have spent more time working on plans and my portfolio. Instead, I spent most of my time napping, playing in the snow, and enjoying time with family. While that was important, I definitely had too much couch and TV time.
Have Courage
Begin Anew
As I start with a fresh slate going into next week, I want to complete a time line or check list of portfolio items. I also want to get a head start on lesson planning this weekend.
Data
This week I did not look at a lot of data. I helped administer the math CBM (Curriculum Based Measurement) test to my students this week. My CE and I will be grading this assessment on Tuesday during planning and our team will do a data dive to look over scores and data based on our school improvement plan.
Advice
I would advise upcoming student teachers to plan ahead. Tackling assignments in advance is always a plus. Waiting until the last minute may work in college, but it doesn't cut it in the real world.
NCTCS
This week I really feel like I began increasing my rating in NCTCS 2d- "Teachers adapt their teaching for the benefit of students with special needs." I have an EC student in my class who struggles to focus. He usually understands the material, but getting him to focus long enough to demonstrate his understanding is really hard as well as keeping him on task. I have another student who just joined our class. She struggles with reading and does not know how to do many of the math skills we have already covered this school year. Finding ways to help these students has been huge this week. I have talked with my CE and the EC teachers and trying to implement their suggestions into my planning so that all of my students can be successful.
Currently my CE and I do not need any assistance from my University Supervisor.
Rate
I would rate this week a 3 out of 5 because of the snow days and my students were hyped up when they returned to school. The really long weekend, snow, 2 hour delay, full moon, and Friday the 13th all contributed to the craziness. Though my students were extremely chatty that was the worst of the behavior.
Observe
This week I took over math instruction I was surprised by how attentive the students were. My students are usually inattentive because math is at the end of the day after lunch, recess, and specials but this week they were all on task and wanted to share their answers. I'm sure this was because I was a new face. I will have to continually look for ways to make math fun, engaging, and relatable.
Reflect
Though my CE and I used the work day to work on plans and clean the classroom, other teachers on our hall chose to socialize and not do much of anything. Then at planning they complained about feeling rushed to get everything together. This taught me that being proactive and using planning/work days to my advantage is always a good thing.
Focus
Currently my short term efforts and long term goals are still aligned. This weekend I really need to sit down and set time lines for big portfolio assignments so they do fall through the cracks and they can be completed in a timely manner.
Be Productive
This weekend, I could have spent more time working on plans and my portfolio. Instead, I spent most of my time napping, playing in the snow, and enjoying time with family. While that was important, I definitely had too much couch and TV time.
Have Courage
Begin Anew
As I start with a fresh slate going into next week, I want to complete a time line or check list of portfolio items. I also want to get a head start on lesson planning this weekend.
Data
This week I did not look at a lot of data. I helped administer the math CBM (Curriculum Based Measurement) test to my students this week. My CE and I will be grading this assessment on Tuesday during planning and our team will do a data dive to look over scores and data based on our school improvement plan.
Advice
I would advise upcoming student teachers to plan ahead. Tackling assignments in advance is always a plus. Waiting until the last minute may work in college, but it doesn't cut it in the real world.
NCTCS
This week I really feel like I began increasing my rating in NCTCS 2d- "Teachers adapt their teaching for the benefit of students with special needs." I have an EC student in my class who struggles to focus. He usually understands the material, but getting him to focus long enough to demonstrate his understanding is really hard as well as keeping him on task. I have another student who just joined our class. She struggles with reading and does not know how to do many of the math skills we have already covered this school year. Finding ways to help these students has been huge this week. I have talked with my CE and the EC teachers and trying to implement their suggestions into my planning so that all of my students can be successful.
Currently my CE and I do not need any assistance from my University Supervisor.
Friday, January 6, 2017
1.6.17
Week of Friday, January 6
I would rate this week a 5!
This week I was pleasantly surprised by how well my students behaved when they were left alone with me. I know this may change as I take over more, but this week they were very well behaved and acted as if my CE were present or with us. This week I learned the full routine of my class. This was my first time staying for a full day. Last semester, I had the opportunity to observe all instructional time but did not observe or participate in lunch, recess, or transitioning to specials. I will definitely build on this next week as I begin to take over. Currently my short and long-term goals are still aligned.
This week I could have spent more time working on assignments throughout the week. I'm not sure if it was because it was the first week or because my sleep schedule was whacked out because of Christmas break, but I was exhausted when I arrived back on campus from school each day and feel like I did not get as much accomplished as I would have liked.
There were a couple behavior issues this week when I was alone with the students. My CE rarely takes a paw (a disciplinary action) and I was apprehensive about taking paws so at first my students got away with a little more than they should have, but by Wednesday I felt confident in my position and authority to take paws and after taking one the students knew I meant business and that they are expected to act the same way they would for my CE.
My first logical step for next week is to begin working on lesson plans for the week of 1/17. I will be responsible for math and reading instruction that week and would like to get a head start on my lesson preparation. As of right now, I do not feel like I have any mental clutter to get rid of.
This week I interviewed the EC teachers that work directly with one of my students and got to sit in on this students IEP meeting. I was able to look at data related to his reading fluency and math calculations scores. These scores helped me to better understand my EC student and areas that he needs help with.
This week, as I wrote my first student teaching lessons, I really had to think about differentiation in regards to NCTCS 4a "Teachers know the ways in which learning takes place, and they know the appropriate levels of intellectual, physical, social, and emotional development of their students." Mrs. Suttle shared that differentiation is more than how will you serve the high kids, the average kids, and the lower kids it's how you will serve students with specific needs. I feel that I have a better understanding of differentiation now and see it as something more specific than high, medium, low.
This week I began talking with my CE about a specific student I would like to work with for the classroom management portion of the portfolio. I shared some thoughts I have about working with this student with my CE and other teachers who work with this student.
I would rate this week a 5!
This week I was pleasantly surprised by how well my students behaved when they were left alone with me. I know this may change as I take over more, but this week they were very well behaved and acted as if my CE were present or with us. This week I learned the full routine of my class. This was my first time staying for a full day. Last semester, I had the opportunity to observe all instructional time but did not observe or participate in lunch, recess, or transitioning to specials. I will definitely build on this next week as I begin to take over. Currently my short and long-term goals are still aligned.
This week I could have spent more time working on assignments throughout the week. I'm not sure if it was because it was the first week or because my sleep schedule was whacked out because of Christmas break, but I was exhausted when I arrived back on campus from school each day and feel like I did not get as much accomplished as I would have liked.
There were a couple behavior issues this week when I was alone with the students. My CE rarely takes a paw (a disciplinary action) and I was apprehensive about taking paws so at first my students got away with a little more than they should have, but by Wednesday I felt confident in my position and authority to take paws and after taking one the students knew I meant business and that they are expected to act the same way they would for my CE.
My first logical step for next week is to begin working on lesson plans for the week of 1/17. I will be responsible for math and reading instruction that week and would like to get a head start on my lesson preparation. As of right now, I do not feel like I have any mental clutter to get rid of.
This week I interviewed the EC teachers that work directly with one of my students and got to sit in on this students IEP meeting. I was able to look at data related to his reading fluency and math calculations scores. These scores helped me to better understand my EC student and areas that he needs help with.
This week, as I wrote my first student teaching lessons, I really had to think about differentiation in regards to NCTCS 4a "Teachers know the ways in which learning takes place, and they know the appropriate levels of intellectual, physical, social, and emotional development of their students." Mrs. Suttle shared that differentiation is more than how will you serve the high kids, the average kids, and the lower kids it's how you will serve students with specific needs. I feel that I have a better understanding of differentiation now and see it as something more specific than high, medium, low.
This week I began talking with my CE about a specific student I would like to work with for the classroom management portion of the portfolio. I shared some thoughts I have about working with this student with my CE and other teachers who work with this student.
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