Bringing Common Core to Life

This is a quote that I found quite interesting from David Coleman. I read this in the transcripts as I wanted to understand how the changes in the New York State standards-based system and their specific implications for teachers and instructional leaders will affect teachers...."Let me tell you the difference between teachers and standards developers. For standards developers time does not matter. Nothing is easier than with the stroke of a pen adding something that now all teachers and kids need to do. But that takes no account of what teachers are constantly conscious of, which is the actual amount of time it takes to master that and for students to practice it. And what’s happened in almost every state is an accretion of standards to the point that they’re utterly unrealistic in terms of time. All of you know what this means. This makes assessment a Russian roulette system. Since the assessment has to cover too wide a body of material into superficial matter no one can predict what will be assessed, what won’t in an in-depth way and there’s a situation of distrust." Here is a link to the webinar.... http://usny.nysed.gov/rttt/resources/bringing-the-common-core-to-life.html

Now that it's over...

Now that school is over, I am.....saddened. Yes, you've read it right. I had the most wonderful opportunity to cover an absence in a fourth grade classroom for the last six weeks of school. I was given the reins and I feel that I managed to succeed. It was definitely a learning experience, but the whole entire school staff were so awesome and helped me whenever I had a question. I learned so much of the daily duties of being a teacher; something you cannot get when you are a substitute in a different classroom everyday. I am continuing with subbing until I find my next opportunity. I am more excited than ever to get my own classroom.

In the Real World

I have been substitute teaching since I graduated last May. I really enjoy going into a new classroom and new schools every day. It can be a bit challenging at times because you can get the "Oh, good it's a sub" look. After a few minutes, the class realizes that I will reinforce the rules that are set in place and they can't get away with anything. I feel that the most important thing you can give to the students is respect. Very rarely do I ever encounter a disrespectful student. I can't wait for my own classroom!

Teaching

I have graduated and have begun seeking employment in districts that are on the cutting edge as far as technology and collaboration. In reviewing work to prepare for this venture, I have again realized why I wanted to become a teacher. I have also realized how well Mount Saint Mary College prepares their students. I am so excited to begin!

My Last Class

Yes, it is true, this is my last class!

I am so looking forward to moving on to the student teaching experience. I want to create lessons that use all of these innovative tools that I've learned. I am definitely not afraid to use any type of technology...so let's bring out the SmartBoards. Basically, if I had to sum up my experience from this class, I would say that I have grown professionally as well as personally. I feel that I have become more confident. I am proud of who I have become and can't wait to work in the classroom.

"Experience is not what happens to you; it is what you do with what happens to you."
~ Aldous Huxley

The Evaluation Roll

There is a purpose in evaluating myself and others. I feel that the role of this evaluation allowed me to reflect on what was created. If you always say that everything is great, you won't be helping yourself or others. It's best to be encouraging and supportive, yet honest. Personally, I found it sometimes hard to do because I didn't want to hurt anyone's feelings, and half the time I wasn't sure if I was even in a position to correct anyone else. During the microteaching, Heather S. and I carefully reviewed our peers lesson plans and made suggestions that we thought would help them the most. I feel that it was good for us because we also learned what to look for in evaluating.

Did I Get What I Paid For?

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My expectations from this class were to learn HOW to teach, HOW to present the information, and HOW to develop my lessons and myself as a teacher. I believe that I have met my expectations successfully. The proof is my ability to create such things as my Unit Plan and WebQuest. A compilation of work that I would have never thought I could manage, but I DID IT! My expectations are directly in line with what I have actually experienced because of the teaching style used. It was up to me to make my work either mediocre or outstanding. I tried my hardest to be creative and give 100%, which in turn enriched my experiences.

Under Construction

I plan to continuously expand my knowledge of technology. I remember Susan's question at our last meeting. She asked how do we stay on top of everything and not lose our edge. The answer was simply stated, "It's up to you!" Teachers that have been out of school only five years do not have the knowledge that we have gained in this class. In order to remain on top, we must read and stay involved with technology. We must remain active learners. It is the way of the evolving classroom and the evolving teacher.

Who Pitched In?

There are a lot of people that have helped me throughout my continued education experiences. My professors have guided me, and my peers and my family have supported me. Dr. Smirnova has become a guide on my side. I have taken many classes with Dr. Smirnova and have gotten used to her teaching style as one that makes you explore much on your own. At times, I felt like this style was very difficult, but I find that it has helped me to retain the information. I hope to actualize this technique to a certain degree with my students.

Seeing the Light

At this point in my career, I still feel like this little seedling instead of a strong oak tree. I know that my growth as a teacher will continue to grow now in a different direction. My experiences in student teaching will help me to apply what I've learned in a "real" classroom setting. The light that encourages my growth will be my students and their inquisitive minds. We've all seen those experienced teachers that just seem to handle everything that comes their way with ease. I can't wait to become one of those teachers.