I chose to conduct my action research on exam scores. For my agriculture science class, the first exam I gave them the scores were not as high as I had hoped.
I decided that I would set out to find a way to raise exam scores, or at least observe what I thought raised them. For my research, I proposed that I would give my class an oral review, a written review, and a game review for 3 different exams. I then would average their scores, and see which review produced the best score.
After I conducted the experiment, I saw that the game review produced the best results. I thought the written review would produce the best results, because I basically gave them the test answers right in front of them. The students that did poorly that day must not have bothered to study the written review.
I can see how the game exam review would have produced the best results. The kids were all really excited and into the game. The adrenaline was flowing. I saw an experiment on the discovery channel one time testing memory of mice. They ran the experiment with two mice. First, they dropped one mouse into a circular tank of water that head a clear pillar in it that the mouse could stand on to get out of the water, but he had to find it first. Then, they injected the second mouse with adrenaline and dropped him in. He found the pillar in roughly the same amount of time.
For the second trial, the first mouse found the pillar in about the same amount of time as the first trial. The second mouse swam directly to the pillar on his second trial, because he was able to remember where it was due to the adrenaline that was pumping through him on the first trial. This same phenomenon is true with humans. We remember experiences vividly when we are energized from adrenaline, even it is a little amount from a ag science jeopardy game.
That is, at least, how I related their success to what was going on. In the end, the game review worked the best, and the written review fell short to even the oral review. I am glad that I did this experiment though. It is a good way to show how you can use data to modify instruction.
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
Home Stretch
Next week is my last week living in Gettysburg and teaching at the high school. This week I am finishing with my environmental science class.
It is bittersweet that my time with my most difficult class has come to an end. Yes, they gave me more problems than I hoped for at the beginning of this internship. But by the end, they really have come around and actually listen to me. I often left that class quite frustrated and disappointed, but it all worked out. We ended by taking our last test, and going outside to clean the last of our blue bird boxes and just hanging out and reflecting afterwards.
My engines class is really a lot of fun. They all work pretty well, and it is good to see them actually learning things previously completely unfamiliar to them. Quinn came down to visit this week, it was good to have a buddy there for the day to just talk about our experiences and what is coming up. She even helped me facilitate the lesson in engines.
Next week, I am just teaching engines and getting caught up on my Penn State assignments. I am going on field trips to the national zoo, to plant chestnut trees, and to stock trout. It should be a good week to end on.
It is bittersweet that my time with my most difficult class has come to an end. Yes, they gave me more problems than I hoped for at the beginning of this internship. But by the end, they really have come around and actually listen to me. I often left that class quite frustrated and disappointed, but it all worked out. We ended by taking our last test, and going outside to clean the last of our blue bird boxes and just hanging out and reflecting afterwards.
My engines class is really a lot of fun. They all work pretty well, and it is good to see them actually learning things previously completely unfamiliar to them. Quinn came down to visit this week, it was good to have a buddy there for the day to just talk about our experiences and what is coming up. She even helped me facilitate the lesson in engines.
Next week, I am just teaching engines and getting caught up on my Penn State assignments. I am going on field trips to the national zoo, to plant chestnut trees, and to stock trout. It should be a good week to end on.
Monday, April 14, 2014
Two Weeks Left
The time really has flown by during this experience. I am down to two classes, and two weeks left.
Throughout the week, we have been working through the strawberry unit in horticulture. It has kind of been a boring unit, difficult to do many activities with. The class made it through though, and we are visiting a strawberry farm on 4/14. This is something new to me too.
I really like the group of kids I have been given in small gas engines. They are a fun group of guys. We are in the process of disassembly, and I can tell are really learning some stuff. I will continue to teach them until my last day.
In environmental science, we just conducted a stream lab (a day earlier than I wanted to). They wanted to go a day early and the weather was nice. I told them before they decided that it was pretty messy out there still and their shoes would get soaked, but we did it anyway and they learned. The lab was quite a success. I had them in groups of 4. They had to find 3 spots along the stream, one along the small part and two along the large part. They then had to get in the stream and measure the stream depth and sediment depth 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 feet from the bank. Then they had to measure the water temperature and calculate the stream velocity by floating a ping pong ball a measured distance and time it with a stop watch. They were responsible for turning over rocks and finding any vertebrates or invertebrates. We found mostly leeches and crayfish, but it was still a great success.
Looking forward to these last two weeks, going to make the most of them.
Throughout the week, we have been working through the strawberry unit in horticulture. It has kind of been a boring unit, difficult to do many activities with. The class made it through though, and we are visiting a strawberry farm on 4/14. This is something new to me too.
I really like the group of kids I have been given in small gas engines. They are a fun group of guys. We are in the process of disassembly, and I can tell are really learning some stuff. I will continue to teach them until my last day.
In environmental science, we just conducted a stream lab (a day earlier than I wanted to). They wanted to go a day early and the weather was nice. I told them before they decided that it was pretty messy out there still and their shoes would get soaked, but we did it anyway and they learned. The lab was quite a success. I had them in groups of 4. They had to find 3 spots along the stream, one along the small part and two along the large part. They then had to get in the stream and measure the stream depth and sediment depth 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 feet from the bank. Then they had to measure the water temperature and calculate the stream velocity by floating a ping pong ball a measured distance and time it with a stop watch. They were responsible for turning over rocks and finding any vertebrates or invertebrates. We found mostly leeches and crayfish, but it was still a great success.
Looking forward to these last two weeks, going to make the most of them.
Sunday, April 6, 2014
Dropping Classes
With 3 weeks left, I have begun dropping classes. I am now down to horticulture, ag mechanics, and environmental science.
This upcoming week is my last week with horticulture. We are working with fertilizers, and are about to have our plant sale. We have planted over $2,000 worth of plugs and hanging baskets (Laura got a look at the greenhouse!). Our hydroponic lettuce has also come along nicely. I hope that I have helped these kids learn a few things.
I am learning so much from teaching small gas engines. I think I can say that teaching that class is helping me more than teaching any other. It is a nice group of 12 kids, and their knowledge ranges from knowing a little bit about engines, to not knowing a single thing. It is nice to know more than all of the students :).
Environmental science and I have been getting along better each week. I have arranged an outdoor stream lab this week for them which should go over nicely. There are still the usual suspects that like to test me, but all in all the class is not bad. It has helped me so much in the world of classroom management.
I am enjoying my time at Gettysburg so much more than I expected. I will truly miss my students and my cooperating teachers. I plan on staying in touch with them.
This upcoming week is my last week with horticulture. We are working with fertilizers, and are about to have our plant sale. We have planted over $2,000 worth of plugs and hanging baskets (Laura got a look at the greenhouse!). Our hydroponic lettuce has also come along nicely. I hope that I have helped these kids learn a few things.
I am learning so much from teaching small gas engines. I think I can say that teaching that class is helping me more than teaching any other. It is a nice group of 12 kids, and their knowledge ranges from knowing a little bit about engines, to not knowing a single thing. It is nice to know more than all of the students :).
Environmental science and I have been getting along better each week. I have arranged an outdoor stream lab this week for them which should go over nicely. There are still the usual suspects that like to test me, but all in all the class is not bad. It has helped me so much in the world of classroom management.
I am enjoying my time at Gettysburg so much more than I expected. I will truly miss my students and my cooperating teachers. I plan on staying in touch with them.
Sunday, March 30, 2014
Goodbye Ag Science, Hello April
The end of my10th week shed both light and darkness onto my student teaching path -- April (and hopefully no more snow) is right around the corner, but I had to hand my ag science class back over to Mr. Abma.
It is unfortunate that I had to stop teaching this class that I have had since January because the material is so diverse, and the students in that class are good kids. It stinks because the weather never permitted us to go outside. They start their forestry chapter at the end of April, it would have been nice to teach that. I think overall I did my job in that class. We ate brownies on the last day of class, and the student that I have had issues with in the past came up to me and wished me good luck. He said something like "we've had our differences, but you taught me a lot". It was rewarding to hear this young man say that to me.
In environmental science we started our unit on "threatened and extinct species" last week. I covered some of the chapter, and we did a poster project where the students had to research an endangered species in Pennsylvania from the game commission website. They seemed to enjoy this, although they didn't necessarily work as hard as I wanted them to. I transitioned into two bird species that are declining in PA, bluebirds and kestrel hawks. We then walked on the school grounds and cleaned the bird boxes and even found a couple unwanted vermin living in the boxes. We also looked at the outdoor classroom that Mr. Abma started to build last year. It was good to actually get the class outside.
In hort, we just finished are unit on seeds and are in the process of planting plugs, and selling our hanging baskets soon. The kids really enjoy working with plants which is rewarding. This class is 8 kids -- 7 who want to be there. It is quite nice.
I am picking up small engines next week and am excited for it. I basically have all my lessons planned for it already which is nice. Hope this last month is a great one!
It is unfortunate that I had to stop teaching this class that I have had since January because the material is so diverse, and the students in that class are good kids. It stinks because the weather never permitted us to go outside. They start their forestry chapter at the end of April, it would have been nice to teach that. I think overall I did my job in that class. We ate brownies on the last day of class, and the student that I have had issues with in the past came up to me and wished me good luck. He said something like "we've had our differences, but you taught me a lot". It was rewarding to hear this young man say that to me.
In environmental science we started our unit on "threatened and extinct species" last week. I covered some of the chapter, and we did a poster project where the students had to research an endangered species in Pennsylvania from the game commission website. They seemed to enjoy this, although they didn't necessarily work as hard as I wanted them to. I transitioned into two bird species that are declining in PA, bluebirds and kestrel hawks. We then walked on the school grounds and cleaned the bird boxes and even found a couple unwanted vermin living in the boxes. We also looked at the outdoor classroom that Mr. Abma started to build last year. It was good to actually get the class outside.
In hort, we just finished are unit on seeds and are in the process of planting plugs, and selling our hanging baskets soon. The kids really enjoy working with plants which is rewarding. This class is 8 kids -- 7 who want to be there. It is quite nice.
I am picking up small engines next week and am excited for it. I basically have all my lessons planned for it already which is nice. Hope this last month is a great one!
Saturday, March 22, 2014
Pesticide Certification
It is sad to say that we are a short 5 weeks away from being done with our student teaching experience. It has been a lot of fun and I have learned much.
My horticulture class and I have been working through the Penn State pesticide manual for the past 2 or 3 weeks in preparation for our approved Private Applicator licenses. I have enjoyed working through this unit because I got a much more thorough understanding of pesticides and the little details. When I told the students taking the exam that I was taking this with them, they really perked up.They were much more motivated to learn. I did the review questions throughout the book with them and learned so much from teaching this subject. For my lesson plan exercise at the delta experience I drew "pesticide safety" (originally I drew nanotechnology but Mr. Seaman had mercy on me). Completing the lesson plan in the allotted time was much more doable because of teaching this material. It was fun sitting with them taking the exam, I could tell they were liking it. They were all smiling and looking at me and each other. They finally got the concept that we are a team. (I like to tell my classes that :-))
For the last few weeks, the landscaping class and I have been working on putting in a block walk way in the green house. We are now moving into their drawing projects. This class is only 35 minutes long, so it is difficult to get much done not having the full 80 minutes. This was the first time I actually put in a walk way -- more things I am learning.
The beauty of that greenhouse right now is almost at full capacity. We just got hundreds of flowers planted in ornamental hanging baskets which are hanging around the 2 plant rooms in the green house. When they bloom it will look amazing. Then, the middle of one of the rooms is a pretty big hydroponic system we made with 30-40 healthy heads of lettuce growing out of it. We recently picked 10 heads of lettuce and I made a salad for a faculty meeting (mandarin oranges, toasted almonds, dried cranberries, and citrus vinaigrette if you are wondering). Then in the other room (the room with our walk way) we just finished installing tables to cover the greenhouse. We have geraniums covering all of the tables.
In the final room of the greenhouse, the animal science class has their animals. They are doing a project where they have to have at least 2 animals and raise them for 6 weeks. They are required to feed and water their animals every day and log it, and clean their cages or pens. The object of the project is to find some factor with your animal you want to measure, such as weight. One student has scorpions, and he is measuring their body growth. I love that greenhouse. (I will post pictures next week)
This was my second to last week with my Ag Science class. I just finished the aquaculture material, and have one more week with them until I go to Engines. I am quite sad about this because As Science has been my favorite class to teach. It was rewarding to actually hear some moans and groans when I said it was my last week teaching them.
Environmental science (or what as a wise university supervisor said, "the bloc class from hell) has taught me so much in the field of classroom management. There are a couple students in the class with IEPs that require a teaching aid to accompany them throughout the day, so she is obviously in my class every day too. She is Mr. Abma both told me that I show much more confidence in dealing with the "bad" students, and have much more control of the class. It is really a shame though because this is such good material and they do their best to make it a drag.
I am loving every minute of this experience, and now that the days are getting longer and the weather is getting nicer it allows for more opportunities to do outside lessons. I am working on planning a few.
My horticulture class and I have been working through the Penn State pesticide manual for the past 2 or 3 weeks in preparation for our approved Private Applicator licenses. I have enjoyed working through this unit because I got a much more thorough understanding of pesticides and the little details. When I told the students taking the exam that I was taking this with them, they really perked up.They were much more motivated to learn. I did the review questions throughout the book with them and learned so much from teaching this subject. For my lesson plan exercise at the delta experience I drew "pesticide safety" (originally I drew nanotechnology but Mr. Seaman had mercy on me). Completing the lesson plan in the allotted time was much more doable because of teaching this material. It was fun sitting with them taking the exam, I could tell they were liking it. They were all smiling and looking at me and each other. They finally got the concept that we are a team. (I like to tell my classes that :-))
For the last few weeks, the landscaping class and I have been working on putting in a block walk way in the green house. We are now moving into their drawing projects. This class is only 35 minutes long, so it is difficult to get much done not having the full 80 minutes. This was the first time I actually put in a walk way -- more things I am learning.
The beauty of that greenhouse right now is almost at full capacity. We just got hundreds of flowers planted in ornamental hanging baskets which are hanging around the 2 plant rooms in the green house. When they bloom it will look amazing. Then, the middle of one of the rooms is a pretty big hydroponic system we made with 30-40 healthy heads of lettuce growing out of it. We recently picked 10 heads of lettuce and I made a salad for a faculty meeting (mandarin oranges, toasted almonds, dried cranberries, and citrus vinaigrette if you are wondering). Then in the other room (the room with our walk way) we just finished installing tables to cover the greenhouse. We have geraniums covering all of the tables.
In the final room of the greenhouse, the animal science class has their animals. They are doing a project where they have to have at least 2 animals and raise them for 6 weeks. They are required to feed and water their animals every day and log it, and clean their cages or pens. The object of the project is to find some factor with your animal you want to measure, such as weight. One student has scorpions, and he is measuring their body growth. I love that greenhouse. (I will post pictures next week)
This was my second to last week with my Ag Science class. I just finished the aquaculture material, and have one more week with them until I go to Engines. I am quite sad about this because As Science has been my favorite class to teach. It was rewarding to actually hear some moans and groans when I said it was my last week teaching them.
Environmental science (or what as a wise university supervisor said, "the bloc class from hell) has taught me so much in the field of classroom management. There are a couple students in the class with IEPs that require a teaching aid to accompany them throughout the day, so she is obviously in my class every day too. She is Mr. Abma both told me that I show much more confidence in dealing with the "bad" students, and have much more control of the class. It is really a shame though because this is such good material and they do their best to make it a drag.
I am loving every minute of this experience, and now that the days are getting longer and the weather is getting nicer it allows for more opportunities to do outside lessons. I am working on planning a few.
Sunday, March 16, 2014
Week 8: Improvement Every Week
I am starting to feel like I am doing close to my best. The kids are noticeably interested in class and have finally come around with my sense of humor.
On Sunday-Tuesday was the SLLC conference. This really helped me change my attitude towards my worst class. I spoke with fellow cohort members and they told me their bad stories. Sean Scanlon really offered much encouragement, and told me that I needed to "hit the reset button" with my class. I did just that. I gave them a little talk, and we set out to leave the past in the past. Of course, I still have 2 or 3 kids that I have had to write up that still dislike me that just refuse to comply. But things are definitely looking up.
This was another fun opportunity for me to hang out with the chapter officers. I had a lot of fun with them.
I only have 2 more weeks with my Ag science class, which is sad because they are my favorite class. We just finished up animal systems and are now starting aquaculture which I am excited about.
Horticulture is working to get their pesticide certifications on Wednesday. The unit has been pretty bland, but I have done my best to try to spice it up.
On Thursday I judged my first public speaking CDE. It was good to hear all of the different speeches, especially the ones that a lot of effort was put into. A student from our chapter got first place too. No, I didn't "stack the deck"!!
Looking forward to next week.
On Sunday-Tuesday was the SLLC conference. This really helped me change my attitude towards my worst class. I spoke with fellow cohort members and they told me their bad stories. Sean Scanlon really offered much encouragement, and told me that I needed to "hit the reset button" with my class. I did just that. I gave them a little talk, and we set out to leave the past in the past. Of course, I still have 2 or 3 kids that I have had to write up that still dislike me that just refuse to comply. But things are definitely looking up.
This was another fun opportunity for me to hang out with the chapter officers. I had a lot of fun with them.
I only have 2 more weeks with my Ag science class, which is sad because they are my favorite class. We just finished up animal systems and are now starting aquaculture which I am excited about.
Horticulture is working to get their pesticide certifications on Wednesday. The unit has been pretty bland, but I have done my best to try to spice it up.
On Thursday I judged my first public speaking CDE. It was good to hear all of the different speeches, especially the ones that a lot of effort was put into. A student from our chapter got first place too. No, I didn't "stack the deck"!!
Looking forward to next week.
Saturday, March 8, 2014
Week 7: Half way through
I cannot believe we have all been at it for 7 weeks now. Time really does fly when you're having fun -- and busy!
I truly am enjoying my time teaching. Except for a few kids, the group I have been given behaves exceptionally and actually care about school.
Something I am really troubled by is my relationship with one student. He is a senior and has just been informed that his grades are not good enough for him to graduate. Since then, he has shown even less care than before. This is the student I did my 10 day behavioral journal on in moodle.
He continues to sit in the back and draw, and not even remotely pay attention. I have moved him to the front, not without battle of course. I have emailed his parents with no response. I have called his parents, and they have trouble understanding my English because they are Mexican. They refuse to come in for a meeting. I have spoken with him one on one, telling him I want him to pass my class and that I will help him with whatever he needs. He continues to just not care.
This past week during an activity (a Dickens e-moment actually) I called on him to read his story. He just looked at me and talked. I said that it didn't look like you were reading much there. He said "because I didn't write anything". I told him that he would not be receiving points for the day. He got very angry at that point and said "You are the only teacher that gives me problems, all the other teachers just let me sit back and do my thing!" My cooperating teacher said that is because none of his other teachers care, they just let him fail. Whatever the reason is for any of this, it has just been on my mind lately and it really troubles me that some of my students dislike me because I move them or reprimand them for misbehaving in class. I am on their side, they just don't see it that way.
Aside from that, my classes are going smoothly. I have been readying our horticulture class to take their pesticide certification exam and they are truly enjoying it. We just hung our ornamental plants in the greenhouse for April sales, and our hydroponic lettuce has all ripened and is looking perfect. I am beginning co-teaching landscaping next week with my cooperating teacher, and am excited to tackle something new.
Looking forward to seeing everyone soon!
I truly am enjoying my time teaching. Except for a few kids, the group I have been given behaves exceptionally and actually care about school.
Something I am really troubled by is my relationship with one student. He is a senior and has just been informed that his grades are not good enough for him to graduate. Since then, he has shown even less care than before. This is the student I did my 10 day behavioral journal on in moodle.
He continues to sit in the back and draw, and not even remotely pay attention. I have moved him to the front, not without battle of course. I have emailed his parents with no response. I have called his parents, and they have trouble understanding my English because they are Mexican. They refuse to come in for a meeting. I have spoken with him one on one, telling him I want him to pass my class and that I will help him with whatever he needs. He continues to just not care.
This past week during an activity (a Dickens e-moment actually) I called on him to read his story. He just looked at me and talked. I said that it didn't look like you were reading much there. He said "because I didn't write anything". I told him that he would not be receiving points for the day. He got very angry at that point and said "You are the only teacher that gives me problems, all the other teachers just let me sit back and do my thing!" My cooperating teacher said that is because none of his other teachers care, they just let him fail. Whatever the reason is for any of this, it has just been on my mind lately and it really troubles me that some of my students dislike me because I move them or reprimand them for misbehaving in class. I am on their side, they just don't see it that way.
Aside from that, my classes are going smoothly. I have been readying our horticulture class to take their pesticide certification exam and they are truly enjoying it. We just hung our ornamental plants in the greenhouse for April sales, and our hydroponic lettuce has all ripened and is looking perfect. I am beginning co-teaching landscaping next week with my cooperating teacher, and am excited to tackle something new.
Looking forward to seeing everyone soon!
Monday, March 3, 2014
Week 6: DVC Conference
This week was an eventful one, to say the least. I wrote a student up for the first time and had to send a few to the office. It ended with Delaware Valley College leadership conference on Saturday.
My meats class has become my favorite class. Not just because of the material, but because of the group of kids I was given. They are a well-behaved group for the most part, and they really are interested in learning about meat! We have our meat judging CDE coming up soon, and were able to get 5 kids to sign up.
Horticulture only has 8 students, but they are also a good group. We have been working hard in the greenhouse planting our ornamental flowers to sell in April, and finishing up the landscaping class's project of building a walk way.
Ag Science used to be my favorite class until I picked up meats. It is all freshman except two seniors. We our finally out of the cells and genetics material, and the kids are coming around. Some of them are frustrated with their grades. It is puzzling to me that I put so much time into the lessons and they still do not understand the simple material. They also don't read directions. I sometimes put answers in the directions, and they still miss them. At least they are finally learning to read the directions!
Environmental science is still my most frustrating class, and being my last class of the day makes it no better. The students' seating chart has been working wonders, and the students are a lot less prone to talk to one another. They are, however, more prone to putting their heads down and trying to sleep. I had to write a girl up for being insubordinate when I asked her to put her head up 3 different times, and to put her cell phone away 3 times. I told her she was going to get a zero on the assignment, and she said "Yeah, I know. I don't care". She then proceeded to watch videos about illegal drugs. I don't understand why it is so hard to just be compliant.
The week ended with a 3 hour drive to Delaware Valley College to participate in the CDEs being held there. We had a student place second in job interview, and 2 placing third and first in agronomy. I helped the kids practice for their CDEs in the previous weeks, so it felt extra good to see them succeed. I actually cheered out loud when their names were called at the closing ceremony. One thing I learned is that 3 hours in a van with 6 high school girls is a true test of patience.
My meats class has become my favorite class. Not just because of the material, but because of the group of kids I was given. They are a well-behaved group for the most part, and they really are interested in learning about meat! We have our meat judging CDE coming up soon, and were able to get 5 kids to sign up.
Horticulture only has 8 students, but they are also a good group. We have been working hard in the greenhouse planting our ornamental flowers to sell in April, and finishing up the landscaping class's project of building a walk way.
Ag Science used to be my favorite class until I picked up meats. It is all freshman except two seniors. We our finally out of the cells and genetics material, and the kids are coming around. Some of them are frustrated with their grades. It is puzzling to me that I put so much time into the lessons and they still do not understand the simple material. They also don't read directions. I sometimes put answers in the directions, and they still miss them. At least they are finally learning to read the directions!
Environmental science is still my most frustrating class, and being my last class of the day makes it no better. The students' seating chart has been working wonders, and the students are a lot less prone to talk to one another. They are, however, more prone to putting their heads down and trying to sleep. I had to write a girl up for being insubordinate when I asked her to put her head up 3 different times, and to put her cell phone away 3 times. I told her she was going to get a zero on the assignment, and she said "Yeah, I know. I don't care". She then proceeded to watch videos about illegal drugs. I don't understand why it is so hard to just be compliant.
The week ended with a 3 hour drive to Delaware Valley College to participate in the CDEs being held there. We had a student place second in job interview, and 2 placing third and first in agronomy. I helped the kids practice for their CDEs in the previous weeks, so it felt extra good to see them succeed. I actually cheered out loud when their names were called at the closing ceremony. One thing I learned is that 3 hours in a van with 6 high school girls is a true test of patience.
Sunday, February 23, 2014
Week 5: Staying Positive
It is hard to believe that is it almost March already. In 2 more months we will all be packing up and heading back to State College to hopefully get that piece of paper we spent so much time and money on.
Each week has gotten better for me. I think that the most challenging part is planning for 80 minute classes. It is hard to keep their attention for the whole class period.
The highlight of my week was Thursday when Laura came to visit for the day -- felt like I was back in lab :-) It feels good to get feedback from her and Mr. Abma collectively. I obviously have a lot to work on, and variability is the biggest challenge for me.
My last class of the day is my most challenging one in terms of behavior. Most days I leave that class feeling frustrated and Thursday was no exception. Frankly, I was embarassed. They were actually worse on this day then they are on most. Laura encouraged me with a lot of good advice and pointers. One thing she said to me was "remember, they're kids. Don't let them frustrate you". That alone was a huge help.
I now have my full course load. The days are flying by. I hope that these kids learn something from me.
Each week has gotten better for me. I think that the most challenging part is planning for 80 minute classes. It is hard to keep their attention for the whole class period.
The highlight of my week was Thursday when Laura came to visit for the day -- felt like I was back in lab :-) It feels good to get feedback from her and Mr. Abma collectively. I obviously have a lot to work on, and variability is the biggest challenge for me.
My last class of the day is my most challenging one in terms of behavior. Most days I leave that class feeling frustrated and Thursday was no exception. Frankly, I was embarassed. They were actually worse on this day then they are on most. Laura encouraged me with a lot of good advice and pointers. One thing she said to me was "remember, they're kids. Don't let them frustrate you". That alone was a huge help.
I now have my full course load. The days are flying by. I hope that these kids learn something from me.
Monday, February 17, 2014
Snow Days Bring a Short Week 4
As week 4 comes to a close, I am feeling deprived of teaching time and my lessons are getting pushed back. So far, I think we have had a total of 6 snow days and 4 two hour delays.
It was a good Monday-Wednesday though. My environmental science class is working on trout in the classroom, and we finally got to dissect trout. This is my hardest class in terms of classroom management, so it was nice that the class ran smoothly especially the fact we had a guest speaker. His name was Dave, and he is the President of Adams County Trout Unlimited. He donated 11 fish -- 2 per group and it even left one extra for me to do. It was a good day.
In ag science, we took our first test. It really frustrates me when I give the students little hints on how to remember stuff. For example, I did a demonstration where I brought in a duffle bag and wrote on it "THIS DUFFLE BAG IS A CHROMOSOME". Then I had a student come up and discover what the bag represented as the class watched. Then I was like what do you guys think is in the bag? He then opened it up and there were blue jeans in it -- like "genes". So genes are what make up chromosomes. Then I put a piece of paper in the pocket with DNA drawn on it. I told him to look in the pocket. So DNA makes up genes.
When test time came, only a few people got the question "Differentiate chromosomes, genes, and DNA". Even the kid who did the demonstration missed it and it was something I touched on almost every day. It does, however, make you feel good when kids get 100% on the test. There are a few girls in the class who just love to learn, and one guy that is just really smart.
Next week, I am picking up my meats class finally!! I am excited for this class, just hoping I can make it as interesting as I want to. Meat is expensive!
Let's just hope this week is a full week!
It was a good Monday-Wednesday though. My environmental science class is working on trout in the classroom, and we finally got to dissect trout. This is my hardest class in terms of classroom management, so it was nice that the class ran smoothly especially the fact we had a guest speaker. His name was Dave, and he is the President of Adams County Trout Unlimited. He donated 11 fish -- 2 per group and it even left one extra for me to do. It was a good day.
In ag science, we took our first test. It really frustrates me when I give the students little hints on how to remember stuff. For example, I did a demonstration where I brought in a duffle bag and wrote on it "THIS DUFFLE BAG IS A CHROMOSOME". Then I had a student come up and discover what the bag represented as the class watched. Then I was like what do you guys think is in the bag? He then opened it up and there were blue jeans in it -- like "genes". So genes are what make up chromosomes. Then I put a piece of paper in the pocket with DNA drawn on it. I told him to look in the pocket. So DNA makes up genes.
When test time came, only a few people got the question "Differentiate chromosomes, genes, and DNA". Even the kid who did the demonstration missed it and it was something I touched on almost every day. It does, however, make you feel good when kids get 100% on the test. There are a few girls in the class who just love to learn, and one guy that is just really smart.
Next week, I am picking up my meats class finally!! I am excited for this class, just hoping I can make it as interesting as I want to. Meat is expensive!
Let's just hope this week is a full week!
Friday, February 7, 2014
Week 3
As week 3 comes to a close, it leaves me with the feeling of eagerness.
This week was my first week to teach. We had 2 snow days, 2 two-hour delays, and on Friday I was at the record book contest. I was only able to teach basically one session. However, I feel like it was a good session -- there were a few laughs, a lot of questions, and we got to eat food.
The class I picked up first was Ag science, mostly freshman. I am excited to work with this class because of all of the youngsters and their interest in agriculture. The first unit I am covering is genetics, and I did a neat little demonstration once we started talking about chromosomes that worked well. Mr. Abma reviewed with them today while I was in State College.
Next week, I am picking up an environmental science class with 20 something students in it -- some of which are not the best-behaved. I think this will be a good learning experience in terms of classroom management and also in content areas in which I am not familiar. I am excited to teach.
After my first lesson, Mr. Abma told me that I showed true teaching ability and am able to talk to any student. That made me feel pretty good, but I understand that it was only the first day. I am going to continue to try to make my lessons as useful as I can for these kids.
Today and yesterday was spent at the record book contest. I have seen record books before but haven't really delved into them like we did these past two days. I am thankful for this opportunity to learn more about the record book system, the changes it is going through, seeing my fellow classmates and teachers, and meeting some new people. I love the Ag family that God has blessed me with.
Tomorrow I suit up and go with 20 students and my cooperating teachers to ACES, my first time. Looking forward to it!
This week was my first week to teach. We had 2 snow days, 2 two-hour delays, and on Friday I was at the record book contest. I was only able to teach basically one session. However, I feel like it was a good session -- there were a few laughs, a lot of questions, and we got to eat food.
The class I picked up first was Ag science, mostly freshman. I am excited to work with this class because of all of the youngsters and their interest in agriculture. The first unit I am covering is genetics, and I did a neat little demonstration once we started talking about chromosomes that worked well. Mr. Abma reviewed with them today while I was in State College.
Next week, I am picking up an environmental science class with 20 something students in it -- some of which are not the best-behaved. I think this will be a good learning experience in terms of classroom management and also in content areas in which I am not familiar. I am excited to teach.
After my first lesson, Mr. Abma told me that I showed true teaching ability and am able to talk to any student. That made me feel pretty good, but I understand that it was only the first day. I am going to continue to try to make my lessons as useful as I can for these kids.
Today and yesterday was spent at the record book contest. I have seen record books before but haven't really delved into them like we did these past two days. I am thankful for this opportunity to learn more about the record book system, the changes it is going through, seeing my fellow classmates and teachers, and meeting some new people. I love the Ag family that God has blessed me with.
Tomorrow I suit up and go with 20 students and my cooperating teachers to ACES, my first time. Looking forward to it!
Friday, January 31, 2014
Week 2
As week two comes to a close, I am finally starting to accept Gettysburg as my home. I can navigate my way around the town and can make it the 3 miles home without a GPS.
Unfortunately for me, last week there were several school closings and delays which pushed back Mr. Abma's first unit a couple days. He wanted to teach the first unit in hopes that I would get to see the kids in their natural environment. This was very helpful as I was able to see the students true personalities and get an impetus in classroom management. There are a few students who may or may not be a hand full, but I am up for the challenge. One day, Mr. Abma told a student that he did not like his attitude, and that he did not have to be in his class if he didn't want to. The kid said "fine I won't", stood up and kicked a chair across the room. The student's name -- Tyler. Should be an easy one to remember.
Today was their unit test for Ag science, the class that I will be picking up next week. After the test, I had about 40 minutes to do what I wanted to for the day. I chose to do an activity similar to the one I did on our "first day of school" lab. I had the students draw something that represents who they are, and introduce themselves to me. I went around the room and joked around with each of them about their drawings and got a couple good laughs. One of the kids said he liked to cook, and boy did I pick his brain. On the back of the card, I had them write down their favorite movies, TV shows, foods, songs, and sports teams. I hope to incorporate each in any way I can.
Afterwards I introduced them to the material we are going to cover next week -- cells. We basically just went over what a cell is, the types of cell, the microscope, and any other general questions they had. Next week I am going to use Mike Petrun's interest approach from communities of practice with the jello and candy. I am also going to do Annette Sprenkel's egg osmosis activity.
I have also been trying to get healthier by taking advantage of the schools gym and weight room. A few of my Ag Science students are baseball players, so I chose to attend one of their practices BEFORE SCHOOL and show them a few fundamentals and that I could stay play a little bit for an out of shape college student. For those of you willing to play sports, this is a great way to establish rapport with your students. I was amazed at how some of them turned around -- instantly wanting to talk to me about sports and I could tell by their body language the next day they were much more comfortable.
My advice for the week -- take interest in what the students are doing. They don't know you, and they are almost afraid to make eye contact. I saw a kid over in the shop welding when there wasn't a class in there, so I went over to check it out. He just finished making a deer out of scrap metal, it is pretty nice. But I showed him my auto-darkening helmet I got at convention, commented on the deer, told him I too like to hunt, and now what do you know? We are best buds. Even if you don't care what they are doing, fake it until you make it!
I hope you guys are all having a good time at your schools and are taking advantage of what they have to offer. Miss everyone and looking forward to talking on Tuesday!
Unfortunately for me, last week there were several school closings and delays which pushed back Mr. Abma's first unit a couple days. He wanted to teach the first unit in hopes that I would get to see the kids in their natural environment. This was very helpful as I was able to see the students true personalities and get an impetus in classroom management. There are a few students who may or may not be a hand full, but I am up for the challenge. One day, Mr. Abma told a student that he did not like his attitude, and that he did not have to be in his class if he didn't want to. The kid said "fine I won't", stood up and kicked a chair across the room. The student's name -- Tyler. Should be an easy one to remember.
Today was their unit test for Ag science, the class that I will be picking up next week. After the test, I had about 40 minutes to do what I wanted to for the day. I chose to do an activity similar to the one I did on our "first day of school" lab. I had the students draw something that represents who they are, and introduce themselves to me. I went around the room and joked around with each of them about their drawings and got a couple good laughs. One of the kids said he liked to cook, and boy did I pick his brain. On the back of the card, I had them write down their favorite movies, TV shows, foods, songs, and sports teams. I hope to incorporate each in any way I can.
Afterwards I introduced them to the material we are going to cover next week -- cells. We basically just went over what a cell is, the types of cell, the microscope, and any other general questions they had. Next week I am going to use Mike Petrun's interest approach from communities of practice with the jello and candy. I am also going to do Annette Sprenkel's egg osmosis activity.
I have also been trying to get healthier by taking advantage of the schools gym and weight room. A few of my Ag Science students are baseball players, so I chose to attend one of their practices BEFORE SCHOOL and show them a few fundamentals and that I could stay play a little bit for an out of shape college student. For those of you willing to play sports, this is a great way to establish rapport with your students. I was amazed at how some of them turned around -- instantly wanting to talk to me about sports and I could tell by their body language the next day they were much more comfortable.
My advice for the week -- take interest in what the students are doing. They don't know you, and they are almost afraid to make eye contact. I saw a kid over in the shop welding when there wasn't a class in there, so I went over to check it out. He just finished making a deer out of scrap metal, it is pretty nice. But I showed him my auto-darkening helmet I got at convention, commented on the deer, told him I too like to hunt, and now what do you know? We are best buds. Even if you don't care what they are doing, fake it until you make it!
I hope you guys are all having a good time at your schools and are taking advantage of what they have to offer. Miss everyone and looking forward to talking on Tuesday!
Monday, January 27, 2014
Week 1
This week we all eagerly started attending school at our cooperating centers fresh off the pre-internship seminar and equipped with our binders of lesson plans. Unfortunately for me, all I did this week was observe classes -- plus we had a snow day on Tuesday and a two-hour delay on Wednesday.
One good thing about the week though was that I got to see what classes I would be teaching. I could not be happier with the group of kids I have been given. They are all well behaved and seem like they are legitimately interested in agriculture. Most of them have backgrounds with animals.
During a few of the classes, Mr. Tindall had the students complete book work. This was my only opportunity to really try and teach them and help them. I just walked around, asked each group how they were doing, and helped where I could. I also provided words of encouragement to the students who felt like "it was stupid".
One thing I noticed was that a lot of the kids lose attention pretty easily. I will make sure my classes address engagement and that I keep the students involved as much as possible. Some of the kids have asked me "when do you start teaching? do you start today?" Hopefully once I do start I can make the class as fun as they hope.
One good thing about the week though was that I got to see what classes I would be teaching. I could not be happier with the group of kids I have been given. They are all well behaved and seem like they are legitimately interested in agriculture. Most of them have backgrounds with animals.
During a few of the classes, Mr. Tindall had the students complete book work. This was my only opportunity to really try and teach them and help them. I just walked around, asked each group how they were doing, and helped where I could. I also provided words of encouragement to the students who felt like "it was stupid".
One thing I noticed was that a lot of the kids lose attention pretty easily. I will make sure my classes address engagement and that I keep the students involved as much as possible. Some of the kids have asked me "when do you start teaching? do you start today?" Hopefully once I do start I can make the class as fun as they hope.
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