This week I was told that I was going to do calendar on Thursday morning. So for the days prior, I observed calendar closely and took notes on all things that needed to be done during this time. As usual during morning stations, I worked with students on letter writing. The students traced letters in a "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom" ABC book. I told the students to take their time and do their best work. They did a very good job.
So this morning I taught calendar. I think it went well. The morale was low but I think it was because it's Thursday and the students weren't quite sure why I was teaching. I think the more I teach calendar the more I will be able to loosen up. And by loosen up I mean stop focusing on making sure I am doing everything correctly and in a specific order, I think this will help me notice things I was not noticing today. A student was standing right behind me and I did not notice because I was too focused on the teaching aspect and the student helper. Also the students are pretty well into the rouitine of calendar and will have no problem telling me if I miss something. In our kindergarten, we have an aid, another aid for our students with autism, and an observer on Tuesdays and Thursdays; it made me a little nervous teaching in front of 4 adults. The observer was the one who made me the most nervous, because everyone else had other responsibilities during this time and Laura is there to make sure I am doing what needs to be done and done right. Overall, I think the lesson went well and I will have plenty of time to get better and work out the kinks.
It's difficult to teach in front of other people, but you are right about the more you do it, the better your will get. I'm glad you are taking on more responsibilities.
ReplyDeleteIt definitely takes a lot of focus--there are days I'm distracted and I totally forget what I'm doing. Observers who don't teach don't ever appreciate that. The key is making it look easy. Having the extra adults in the room is an issue for me, too. It's necessary to have them there, but a little intimidating. Hopefully it will make it easier for you when you're being observed--you'll be used to the audience!
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