Technology in the Classroom: A Professional Blogfolio

I have recently been informed of the teacher’s immunity – something I clearly have not developed as of yet. Most teachers are naturally immune to the illnesses dragged into the classrooms and, as an intern, I have found that I’m not so lucky.. With 32 students in a classroom someone is ALWAYS sick and I have had my first opportunity of the school year to experience the dreaded head cold/flu. (I’m just happy it happened now instead of my three week block coming up in November!)

After feeling under the weather for a week or so I can finally focus more of my attention on teaching instead of cough syrup and sinus medication. I have been teaching Health since the beginning of the year and now I have picked up French. I was terrified to have to teach another language, but it’s turning out quite well so far. The kids surprised me with their excitement to learn and have a song to sing for just about every topic! As elementary French classes are mainly focussed on vocabulary, I have found that games and activities are much more engaging than the “repetez s’il vous plait” that I experienced in elementary school.

Teaching Health has also been a good experience thus far. I began the year with some hands on activities and games in an attempt to build relationships with one another. As cheesy as it sounds, we made friendship pins for our shoes. The kids enjoyed themselves and were able to build and exchange pins with others in the classroom. We have also been conducting classroom meetings where we get to know each other a little bit better. Seated on the floor, in a circle, each person has an opportunity to compliment another students in the classroom. We have focussed on giving “inside” compliments rather than “outside” compliments this past week. Students began their compliments with “You’re good at…” or “Thank you for…” It’s refreshing to hear positive words from these students because we’re often so focused on ”what NOT to say.”  

I feel like I’m off to a good start this year and I appreciate the positive experiences I’ve had so far. My co-operating teacher continues to surprise me with her supportive nature and willingness to learn with me. The staff members have been helpful and take a genuine interest in my internship. The students are more than happy to share their smiles (and sickness) with me!

This entry was posted on September 14, 2008 at 11:16 am and is filed under Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.