I've been M.I.A. for a fat minute, but I'm back now.
First.... some updates: Over the summer, I went to a research experience for undergrads & teachers in math ed. More info here: http://math.illinoisstate.edu/reu/ We got to learn about graph theory, participate in real never-been-done-before research, and run a small one week math camp for high school students. It's hard to pinpoint exactly what I got out of it, but I think I see mathematics with fresh and broader perspective. I see how it's changing and growing, but more importantly- I realized students need to find mathematics fun. Simple idea, super challenging to make happen. I'll continue to think about this throughout the year I'm sure. Second update. Last school year ended- well, not exactly the way I wanted to. I think finishing strong has always been a weakness of mine. From planning the end of a lesson to just drinking a full glass of water without giving up midway. So this is the goal. Finish strong. I thought about what kinds of obstacles I faced last year and I think it mostly came down to classroom management. Don't get me wrong. I've grown immensely from when I was in my first year of teaching, but the truth is- I've always focused on big picture ideas and classroom culture, because classroom management seems so unpleasant. But this is my year to grow as a teacher. I'm currently reading Teach Like a Champion and Tools for Teaching. They give specific actions on how you can respond to negative behaviors and prevent them from happening. I'll share some things about both books as I feel is helpful. One thing I'll mention now though- I think Teach Like a Champion has some good stuff in there, but I"m not sure if my philosophy aligns. They're all about getting the most learning out of every minute- which I think is important, but I think being human is pretty important too. I'm not sure if those two things are always in sync. (<-lol) To be REALLY honest though, I'm not sure how I feel about this upcoming year. I feel pulled in so many directions. At any given time, my brain is thinking about the following: 1. The department is trying to align their standards for Standards Based Grading (or some iteration) and come up with what each level of mastery represents: 1, 2, 3, 4. This is SO time consuming. 2. The union, our contract, and my role in how I can help our schools be properly funded so that black and brown students receive a quality education. 3. Culture building activities and math content for the first two weeks of class 4. Making course decisions on homework assessment, curriculum, and quizzes. 5. How to train my student assistants in the classroom 6. The physical space of the 3 separate classrooms I'll be in. 7. Learning about classroom management so I can be prepared on Day 1. 8. Deciding on bathroom policy, tardies, class chores, absent students... 9. Trying this thing called "math talks" for the first time as a warm up 10. Connecting with other educators in professional groups. 11. How the heck I'm going to memorize 140 students' names. School starts in just a few days. I am. so. stressed.
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