Before the beginning of my first semester in the classroom - Teacher Assisting
About a month ago I got my placement information were my home classroom would be for the next 4 months. I was placed in a 6th grade social studies and language arts classroom. It is in an area with not a ton of diversity. I am SO excited but very nervous. The highest grade that I have worked with is 5th grade and much of my classes have focused on elementary school. I honestly don't know what to expect.
My Coordinating Teacher, lets call her Mrs. Smith, so far has given me the impression that I will be doing a lot of learning this semester. She told me at my interview that I would be teaching both a social studies and language arts lesson almost every day. She gave me a Geography Alive textbook to look over over break. Reading through some of the chapter, I can already see some ideas that I have to teach the information. I know I will make tons of mistakes which doesn't scare me the most - what scares me the most is being able to properly learn from those mistakes. I think since I have been in situations with teaching were I have had to adapt such as tutoring students on reading I will be able to bounce back properly from my first teaching experiences.
I am so excited to work with Mrs. Smith though. At my interview she has told me about the various teacher assistants and student teachers she has had previously. I also got to meet the principal, which he told me she was one of the best! She does have over 24 years of experience alone at that school, previously a special education teacher.
One thing that I remember in 6th or 8th grade (I don't exactly remember when) my classroom had a student teacher. He brought with him a syllabus. I had never heard what a syllabus was before and I didn't realize that now I need one in order to feel prepared for a college course. I never noticed then either of how I learned or how the information was presented to me. I now know that essential questions and applying everything they learn to life will enhance what they learn but how do I make them aware of these concepts? I feel like it is important for students to understand why and how they will be learning the information.
I guess at this point I am looking for advice. Mrs. Smith told me that I could play a game or do a short activity with the students to introduce myself. I want to think of something that reveals to both the class and her that I am prepared and ready to help in this classroom. Also, how do I create a memorable and positive experience for the students. I want them to remember me as a teacher assistant since I am given the opportunity to teach. Are there any sites or resources that are great for 6th grade social studies or language arts that you have used? Anything would help :)
I just can't wait for this experience. I will keep updates but my next post will probably be after my first day; January 5th! :)
Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year!
