Almost 5 years later and I am back to Blogging. My adventures have taken me from a 5th grade math teacher, to an 8th grade math teacher, technology teacher and now an educational technology specialist. I begin the ed tech role at Mater Dei Catholic High on June 29.
As much as I would like to catch you up on the last 5 years, I want to talk about a topic we discussed in a small group of teachers at Mater Dei regarding the one-to-one laptops roll-out.
Just to preface the story, MD is going one-to-one Lenovo laptops next year. That means each student will be issued a laptop much like checking out their text books at the beginning of the year. On top of that, students will be assigned a Microsoft 365 student account they will use to login to the computer and store their documents on the cloud. Up until now, students have been bringing in and using their personal electronic devices (smart phones, iPads, MacBooks, etc.) and using Google Docs to create and share documents with their teachers. Problems that have came up are compatibility between different platforms, not everyone having technology and using electronic devices effectively.
MD has taken a few steps to address these issues, hence the laptops and new ed tech guy (me).
Yesterday, a few teachers at MD, hand-selected by the VP, the IT guy, the VP and I met to talk about the laptop orientation for students. We talked about the day's agenda. Towards the end of the discussion, someone asked about the translation of skills learned on the school-issued laptops to their personal devices. I kept my mouth shut because it was my first time meeting many of those teachers, but what I immediately thought about was how students are using the tech, not what they are using.
Then I ran into this article on ASCD titled "Five Tips for Managing Mobile Devices" written by Catlin Tucker. These five tips, taken out of the context of technology, sound a lot like establishing norms for classroom management at the beginning of every new school year. For example, her second tip is to "Cultivate a culture of sharing". If a student doesn't bring a device, they are allowed to share. Take the technology out of it and it sounds like what teachers do on a regular basis. Teachers write lessons based on the number of protractors or rulers they have on-hand. Ms. Tucker even allows her students to use her personal devices; with guidelines of course. There is an underlying sense of trust in the class with establishes a safe learning environment for the students. This is something that every teacher, tech or no tech, strives for at the beginning of the school year.
My point is, many of the woes teachers have with skills being translated between various devices can be subsided with focusing on how students are using the tech and not what they are using. Today, they are using Lenovo laptops. They might have a MacBook at home. In college, they might be using something totally different. It shouldn't matter. Don't dwell on the negative, but focus on how these new tools with enhance teaching and learning.
About Me
Thursday, May 28, 2015
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Word Searches
My student work diligently on word searches. When I need them to stay silent after a test, I have a stack of word searches for them to work on. A full-page size maze is doing the trick too. I need to make sure I have this done every time.
I also need to work on making table-top dividers also known as "offices" and "privacy folders". I have long tables that sit 6 students each.
I also also need to rethink my seating arrangement. I might do two U-shaped rows with every student facing forward.
I also need to work on making table-top dividers also known as "offices" and "privacy folders". I have long tables that sit 6 students each.
I also also need to rethink my seating arrangement. I might do two U-shaped rows with every student facing forward.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Multiplication Flash Cards
I have to write this down so I don't forget and I can reflect upon it later.
Students are in study hall right now. I passed out some multiplication flash cards for the students to work on. One students held two up together: 10 x 3 and 10 x 7. Another student said that make 100. His reasoning was that 10 x 3 = 30, 10 x 7 = 70 and 30 + 70 = 100. I would like to explore the insight of his reasoning. Maybe I'll ask him later about it.
Also, these 5th graders like the sense of being on a team (mine being UCSD).
Also also, some students are making games out of the flash cards.
Students are in study hall right now. I passed out some multiplication flash cards for the students to work on. One students held two up together: 10 x 3 and 10 x 7. Another student said that make 100. His reasoning was that 10 x 3 = 30, 10 x 7 = 70 and 30 + 70 = 100. I would like to explore the insight of his reasoning. Maybe I'll ask him later about it.
Also, these 5th graders like the sense of being on a team (mine being UCSD).
Also also, some students are making games out of the flash cards.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
A New Year
I am glad I have blogged as much as I have in the past about my teaching. I hope to bring that back and blog on a regular basis because it is a new year and I am at a new school. I also think that all teachers should blog for the reflection aspect: we learn from ourselves, but only if we reflect.
At this new school, I plan on observing as many other teachers as possible. Not only should I observe the veteran teachers, I also would like to observe the newer teachers. New and old, we all have something to offer. So that is the plan. Observe and reflect.
At this new school, I plan on observing as many other teachers as possible. Not only should I observe the veteran teachers, I also would like to observe the newer teachers. New and old, we all have something to offer. So that is the plan. Observe and reflect.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Discipline Policy
I recently talked about my discipline plan with my principal. It is definitely something that needs to have consistency; not just assigning consequences, but following through with them. What's the point if they do not show up to detention? That's disrespect.
My plan has a few steps: 1. Warning; 2. 5 minute detention; 3. 15 minute detention, parent contact; 4. Referral.
I recently added a detention slip. Before, it was a verbal notice and their name on the board if they got detention. Now, it's a slip and a behavior log. It helps me keep better track of habitual offenders. Students sign the log to acknowledge they received a detention. Also, I felt parent contact should be moved up the list, so they sign the slip.
My plan has a few steps: 1. Warning; 2. 5 minute detention; 3. 15 minute detention, parent contact; 4. Referral.
I recently added a detention slip. Before, it was a verbal notice and their name on the board if they got detention. Now, it's a slip and a behavior log. It helps me keep better track of habitual offenders. Students sign the log to acknowledge they received a detention. Also, I felt parent contact should be moved up the list, so they sign the slip.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Things are getting better
As opposed to a 'nudder' person I know, I think this month will be easy. We had parent conferences the last two weeks, so those are over with. Last week, I had one workshop, tomorrow I have one and next week I have two for BTSA. So that's 4 less days of work this month. Not only do these workshops give me a break from my classes, but I think they are very helpful. Then we get one week for Thanksgiving.
This is my 7th week of teaching this year and things are getting a lot better in my classes. In my geometry classes, the homework turn-in rate is almost 100%. At parent-conferences, we set up many academic contracts so many of my students will be attending mandatory tutoring. Hopefully, this translates to higher student achievement.
I am also seeing some gains in my pre-algebra class. There is very little whining about taking notes and transition times are getting smaller. My problem in that class are the few students who are there to do the exact opposite of what they are supposed to.
Overall, my classes are doing much better. I am having more happy days than I am stressful days. I feel at this point I am focusing less on teaching my students procedures and more on teaching them math.
Goal for next two days: catch up with grading.
This is my 7th week of teaching this year and things are getting a lot better in my classes. In my geometry classes, the homework turn-in rate is almost 100%. At parent-conferences, we set up many academic contracts so many of my students will be attending mandatory tutoring. Hopefully, this translates to higher student achievement.
I am also seeing some gains in my pre-algebra class. There is very little whining about taking notes and transition times are getting smaller. My problem in that class are the few students who are there to do the exact opposite of what they are supposed to.
Overall, my classes are doing much better. I am having more happy days than I am stressful days. I feel at this point I am focusing less on teaching my students procedures and more on teaching them math.
Goal for next two days: catch up with grading.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Work, work, work
This is my first post in a couple of weeks, I think. I haven't had much time to write a blog since I have had a lot of grading and I do not have internet at home. It's also the first time since I started working that I am caught up with grading. Today was the last day of the first quarter, so I have some work to grade this weekend.
After three whole weeks of teaching, I think my students are still adjusting to my procedures and teaching style. My Geometry students pretty much understand. My Algebra Readiness students are still getting there, but I have definitely seen some improvement since I have started. Basically, I want my students to know that when they are in my class, they need to be working.
I have also gotten use to the way things work at our school. Monday, we start a brand new quarter. I think with all the things I have tried first quarter, I know what to do better to make second quarter run more smoothly.
One thing, for example, is my discipline policy. I started to follow through with my warnings and assign after-school detentions. I will be continuing that. The students have been responding to that. I think after another round of detentions, most of my students will understand my procedures quite well.
Another thing is homework submission. I collect my Geometry homework every week; on either Friday or the following Monday. I like it because I am grading the entire thing for one or two days and the rest of my week is more open. However, I have noticed that some of my students don't do well on the homework for Thursdays and Fridays. Therefore, I am going to start checking homework sometime during the end of the week just to keep my students on track.
I wanted to at least make contact with all of the parents, but I fell behind on that. I will try in the next couple of weeks to do that.
On top of all that, I have to work on professional development.
One quarter of the year is done. I am looking forward for the rest of the year.
Goals for this weekend: finish grading, lesson plan for next week.
After three whole weeks of teaching, I think my students are still adjusting to my procedures and teaching style. My Geometry students pretty much understand. My Algebra Readiness students are still getting there, but I have definitely seen some improvement since I have started. Basically, I want my students to know that when they are in my class, they need to be working.
I have also gotten use to the way things work at our school. Monday, we start a brand new quarter. I think with all the things I have tried first quarter, I know what to do better to make second quarter run more smoothly.
One thing, for example, is my discipline policy. I started to follow through with my warnings and assign after-school detentions. I will be continuing that. The students have been responding to that. I think after another round of detentions, most of my students will understand my procedures quite well.
Another thing is homework submission. I collect my Geometry homework every week; on either Friday or the following Monday. I like it because I am grading the entire thing for one or two days and the rest of my week is more open. However, I have noticed that some of my students don't do well on the homework for Thursdays and Fridays. Therefore, I am going to start checking homework sometime during the end of the week just to keep my students on track.
I wanted to at least make contact with all of the parents, but I fell behind on that. I will try in the next couple of weeks to do that.
On top of all that, I have to work on professional development.
One quarter of the year is done. I am looking forward for the rest of the year.
Goals for this weekend: finish grading, lesson plan for next week.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Adjusting
I feel like I am getting adjusted pretty well. The staff has welcomed me as one of their own so quickly. They are a great support. It is a different story for my students.
I did not expect my students to adjust to me right away. In fact, I haven't gotten to the point where I am getting frustrated. However, I did write a referral for one of my students. He was not working and writing on a girl's arm. I expect that most of my students will be adjusted to me and my style by the end of next week.
My 3rd period has been the most difficult for me to handle. Yesterday, I kept the entire class after school for a few minutes. My instructional aide kept track of the students causing the most distractions and called home that night. Today, I made my students line up outside, come in quietly and start the warm-up a few times. Tomorrow, I am setting a new seating chart. I know some of my students think I am picking on them, but I plan on doing all this until my students learn how to behave.
Tomorrow, I plan on planning for next week. This should help things run a little smoother next week.
I did not expect my students to adjust to me right away. In fact, I haven't gotten to the point where I am getting frustrated. However, I did write a referral for one of my students. He was not working and writing on a girl's arm. I expect that most of my students will be adjusted to me and my style by the end of next week.
My 3rd period has been the most difficult for me to handle. Yesterday, I kept the entire class after school for a few minutes. My instructional aide kept track of the students causing the most distractions and called home that night. Today, I made my students line up outside, come in quietly and start the warm-up a few times. Tomorrow, I am setting a new seating chart. I know some of my students think I am picking on them, but I plan on doing all this until my students learn how to behave.
Tomorrow, I plan on planning for next week. This should help things run a little smoother next week.
Monday, September 28, 2009
First Full Day
Today was my first full day at my new school. I pretty much had to hit the ground running. I was forewarned that I had to be stern with my students and let them know that I am not there to be their friend.
I am fortunate in that I only have approximately 90 students. My two Geometry classes are blocks, so I have them for two periods each. Today, I introduced my myself, then we went over a group quiz the students took on Thursday. They are preparing for a test tomorrow. On Wednesday, we start a new unit.
Then I have an Algebra readiness class. This class has 36 students, but I think it was my better class today. I introduced myself and immediately started a lesson on solving one-step equations using the addition and subtracting properties of equality. I would have liked to play a fun name-game, but according to the pacing guide, the students were already one day behind. I think we caught up today though. Tuesday and Wednesday, we will be going over multiplication and division properties of equality. Friday, we will tie them all together and solve two-step equations.
During my prep and after school, I set up my room some more. I unpacked some items I have and rearranged my desk. My room is still bland, but hopefully over time I will collect some posters and student work to post on the walls. I have attached some photos of my room before I rearranged my desk.
Tomorrow, I'm going in early to staple 50 tests since the copier was out of staples. :/
I am fortunate in that I only have approximately 90 students. My two Geometry classes are blocks, so I have them for two periods each. Today, I introduced my myself, then we went over a group quiz the students took on Thursday. They are preparing for a test tomorrow. On Wednesday, we start a new unit.
Then I have an Algebra readiness class. This class has 36 students, but I think it was my better class today. I introduced myself and immediately started a lesson on solving one-step equations using the addition and subtracting properties of equality. I would have liked to play a fun name-game, but according to the pacing guide, the students were already one day behind. I think we caught up today though. Tuesday and Wednesday, we will be going over multiplication and division properties of equality. Friday, we will tie them all together and solve two-step equations.
During my prep and after school, I set up my room some more. I unpacked some items I have and rearranged my desk. My room is still bland, but hopefully over time I will collect some posters and student work to post on the walls. I have attached some photos of my room before I rearranged my desk.
Tomorrow, I'm going in early to staple 50 tests since the copier was out of staples. :/
Friday, September 25, 2009
It's Official!
Monday is my first official day of work. However, I went in today for an orientation. I am teaching two block of Geometry and one block of Algebra support. All 9th graders. After the orientation, I went to observe my last block. [I'm not going to talk about the orientation. It's too boring.]
When I walked in, the students were [supposed to be] working on a group quiz. The seats are already arranged in groups of five. The 27 students were set up in groups of 4 (one of them three). For my standards, these students were way too rowdy. There has been a substitute teacher for the past month and she has been at the school for a year and a half. However, her classroom management has not been established. On Monday, she will still be there to ease the transition, but I asked her to simply introduce me so the students are not too shocked. I plan to take over right away by giving the students a little background about myself and going over the classroom rules and expectations. It doesn't hurt to review those once in awhile.
The whole time I spent helping students with their group quizzes. In fact, I brought them home to grade! Luckily, I only have to grade one quiz from each group.
After school, two students stayed because they had a conflict to resolve. One student came forward to complain about the other student and how he is a distraction to him. He wanted him moved to another group. It was funny to listen to the student tell the sub and me that the other student doesn't know when it appropriate to talk and when it is time to shut up. I don't think I have ever seen such a cordial argument from two 9th graders before. The sub suggested that the student who brought forward the complaint be moved. I suggested that they try it one (or two) more days since they have a test on Tuesday. I figure since I will take over on Monday, things might be a little different. Plus, I think Wednesday would be a good day to make a new seating chart since they have been in the same seats for a month and they start a new unit on that day. Afterward, the sub told me that the complainant cannot be seated with just anyone. There is one group of students that mistreat him and one student copies off of him. This shouldn't be too hard to deal with though.
After that, I brought in some materials I had. On Monday, I'll bring in my books and start setting up my classroom. Maybe I'll take some pictures and post them up too!
Goal for this weekend: Grade quizzes, lesson plan for Monday (maybe the week), and make printouts of rules and expectations to post on wall.
When I walked in, the students were [supposed to be] working on a group quiz. The seats are already arranged in groups of five. The 27 students were set up in groups of 4 (one of them three). For my standards, these students were way too rowdy. There has been a substitute teacher for the past month and she has been at the school for a year and a half. However, her classroom management has not been established. On Monday, she will still be there to ease the transition, but I asked her to simply introduce me so the students are not too shocked. I plan to take over right away by giving the students a little background about myself and going over the classroom rules and expectations. It doesn't hurt to review those once in awhile.
The whole time I spent helping students with their group quizzes. In fact, I brought them home to grade! Luckily, I only have to grade one quiz from each group.
After school, two students stayed because they had a conflict to resolve. One student came forward to complain about the other student and how he is a distraction to him. He wanted him moved to another group. It was funny to listen to the student tell the sub and me that the other student doesn't know when it appropriate to talk and when it is time to shut up. I don't think I have ever seen such a cordial argument from two 9th graders before. The sub suggested that the student who brought forward the complaint be moved. I suggested that they try it one (or two) more days since they have a test on Tuesday. I figure since I will take over on Monday, things might be a little different. Plus, I think Wednesday would be a good day to make a new seating chart since they have been in the same seats for a month and they start a new unit on that day. Afterward, the sub told me that the complainant cannot be seated with just anyone. There is one group of students that mistreat him and one student copies off of him. This shouldn't be too hard to deal with though.
After that, I brought in some materials I had. On Monday, I'll bring in my books and start setting up my classroom. Maybe I'll take some pictures and post them up too!
Goal for this weekend: Grade quizzes, lesson plan for Monday (maybe the week), and make printouts of rules and expectations to post on wall.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Job offer
First blog of the new school year. It's time to go back and look through my old entries.
Summer break is almost over! Normally, I wouldn't be so excited to say that, but I just got a call today with a job offer. I will be working at a junior high! This is exciting for me because I had been to ten or more interviews; all saying no, including this school.
On my way back from the interview, I ran into my old computer-class teacher who is now principal of our elementary school. He told me the students at the district I interviewed at our rowdy and the staff really get into politics, but the pay scale is good. That is fine. I can deal with rowdy students and I don't really get into politics.
I guess one of the people they chose either backed out or did not check out. Either way, I have a job. That means I can keep writing in this blog.
I don't know how many more days of break I have. I need to go through the hiring process and school already started for them. I know that I will be spending those days moving into my new place and organizing my things.
Summer break is almost over! Normally, I wouldn't be so excited to say that, but I just got a call today with a job offer. I will be working at a junior high! This is exciting for me because I had been to ten or more interviews; all saying no, including this school.
On my way back from the interview, I ran into my old computer-class teacher who is now principal of our elementary school. He told me the students at the district I interviewed at our rowdy and the staff really get into politics, but the pay scale is good. That is fine. I can deal with rowdy students and I don't really get into politics.
I guess one of the people they chose either backed out or did not check out. Either way, I have a job. That means I can keep writing in this blog.
I don't know how many more days of break I have. I need to go through the hiring process and school already started for them. I know that I will be spending those days moving into my new place and organizing my things.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Post #3 Class in the Year 2020
What will my class be like in the year 2020? The year 2020 is 11 years from now. Assuming my class in the year 2020 is a 9th grade class, those students are currently age three or four. They are pre-school students. It's interesting to think that.
Last year, I worked off of the notion that some of my students had a computer at home and others did not. Also, some of those that did have a computer at home may not have had the appropriate skills or resources to access certain applications; for example, high-speed internet. We spent a lot of class-time in the computer lab working on projects. It also took a lot of individual attention to get students on track with their project. I think that if more students have internet at home, they can do more of the work on their own.
Since the current pre-schoolers are digital-natives, or people born with digital technologies, by the time they reach high school, most, if not all, well have adequate training and resources at home to access the internet. That means there will be more class-time for lessons and activities. I can also create a central location for students to retrieve information. Lastly, it means students will be able to complete more of their projects at home.
Last year, I worked off of the notion that some of my students had a computer at home and others did not. Also, some of those that did have a computer at home may not have had the appropriate skills or resources to access certain applications; for example, high-speed internet. We spent a lot of class-time in the computer lab working on projects. It also took a lot of individual attention to get students on track with their project. I think that if more students have internet at home, they can do more of the work on their own.
Since the current pre-schoolers are digital-natives, or people born with digital technologies, by the time they reach high school, most, if not all, well have adequate training and resources at home to access the internet. That means there will be more class-time for lessons and activities. I can also create a central location for students to retrieve information. Lastly, it means students will be able to complete more of their projects at home.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Post #2 Audio about Digital Story
I will also be pulling photos from the internet to space out the pictures of myself. Any ideas of pictures I should put up? What about effects?
Push PLAY
Push PLAY
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Post #1 End of the year
The school year is over. Our last day was a fun day at Boomers. I played some arcades, rode the go-carts, played laser tag and swung at some balls in the batting cage. Oh yeah, I also supervised my students. It was fun. I was pretty tired afterwards.
That is not the event I want to talk about though. The event was mentioned in my last blog post and I still want to talk about it. Towards the end of the year, a couple of my 3rd period students and I were having a casual conversation about the class and how they are doing. Their concern was regarding what they could do to get out of a failing grade. Unfortunately, it was a little too late. The conversation tended to the comment "What happened? You used to be so chill?"
There are many ways teachers create an effective classroom environment. One method I heard while in the EDS program was not to smile until after winter break. It expresses to the students that you are serious about your job and that you shall not be messed with. That was kind of the attitude I wanted to go in with, but that didn't really happen. I got my job early in August and I started on August 12. I really didn't have a lot of time to prepare myself since I had summer classes up to that day. On the first day I tended toward my natural attitude which is warm and friendly. Ask around. I'm sure people will agree.
I would support the idea that it would be appropriate to keep this attitude for a couple of weeks so students become comfortable enough to be in your class and to approach you. After those weeks, it's time for business. However, in my situation, I could not change my demeanor. There were only a few times when my students got me in a bad mood. Usually I was in a happy mood. I was happy to be in my classroom, teaching my students.
In my last blog post, I said I would try something else and be a serious teacher from the very beginning. We shall see what happens. I feel that you do not have to front a serious attitude to make your students believe you are serious about your job.
Enjoy a song:
End of the Road-Boyz II Men
That is not the event I want to talk about though. The event was mentioned in my last blog post and I still want to talk about it. Towards the end of the year, a couple of my 3rd period students and I were having a casual conversation about the class and how they are doing. Their concern was regarding what they could do to get out of a failing grade. Unfortunately, it was a little too late. The conversation tended to the comment "What happened? You used to be so chill?"
There are many ways teachers create an effective classroom environment. One method I heard while in the EDS program was not to smile until after winter break. It expresses to the students that you are serious about your job and that you shall not be messed with. That was kind of the attitude I wanted to go in with, but that didn't really happen. I got my job early in August and I started on August 12. I really didn't have a lot of time to prepare myself since I had summer classes up to that day. On the first day I tended toward my natural attitude which is warm and friendly. Ask around. I'm sure people will agree.
I would support the idea that it would be appropriate to keep this attitude for a couple of weeks so students become comfortable enough to be in your class and to approach you. After those weeks, it's time for business. However, in my situation, I could not change my demeanor. There were only a few times when my students got me in a bad mood. Usually I was in a happy mood. I was happy to be in my classroom, teaching my students.
In my last blog post, I said I would try something else and be a serious teacher from the very beginning. We shall see what happens. I feel that you do not have to front a serious attitude to make your students believe you are serious about your job.
Enjoy a song:
End of the Road-Boyz II Men
Monday, June 8, 2009
Last week of school
It is the last week of school. We have four more days left with the students. Then two more days of clean-up and check-out. The students are definitely ready for the summer; as am I. This has been a long year, however, I still remember the first day. Since we have a block schedule, it was like two first days. I introduced myself, told them a little bit about my background, and started to get to know the students. It was fun to think of ways to get to know the students.
Going into it, I was very excited. In the beginning, I tended to have a positive, friendly attitude towards the students. That is just how I am. At some point, I decided in needed to be less of a friend and more of a teacher. The students here do not put in a lot of effort as not a lot of effort is expected of them. I guess I can say that they are accustommed to doing the minimum to get by. What I mean by being more of a teacher is expecting more from my students.
Towards the beginning, I would give my students time in class to work and let them decide if they are going to work or not. Watching other 9th grade teachers, I noticed they do not let them decide. In their classes, their students are working all the time. I think, at the point, I decided to try that out.
I started being more strict; lowering the amount of free-time, bathroom breaks and wasting time. The students noticed that change in management; which is good. In fact, one student asked me last week "What happened? You used to be so chill." I don't want to be chill. I want my students to learn that they will have to learn how to use their time responsibly and that it will take a lot of effort to graduate with good grades.
Next year, I plan on being less "chill" and more strict with how my students use their time from the very beginning.
Going into it, I was very excited. In the beginning, I tended to have a positive, friendly attitude towards the students. That is just how I am. At some point, I decided in needed to be less of a friend and more of a teacher. The students here do not put in a lot of effort as not a lot of effort is expected of them. I guess I can say that they are accustommed to doing the minimum to get by. What I mean by being more of a teacher is expecting more from my students.
Towards the beginning, I would give my students time in class to work and let them decide if they are going to work or not. Watching other 9th grade teachers, I noticed they do not let them decide. In their classes, their students are working all the time. I think, at the point, I decided to try that out.
I started being more strict; lowering the amount of free-time, bathroom breaks and wasting time. The students noticed that change in management; which is good. In fact, one student asked me last week "What happened? You used to be so chill." I don't want to be chill. I want my students to learn that they will have to learn how to use their time responsibly and that it will take a lot of effort to graduate with good grades.
Next year, I plan on being less "chill" and more strict with how my students use their time from the very beginning.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Winding down
It's been awhile since my last post. I have been wanting to blog for awhile now. Seeing as though my students are taking a quiz right now, I have some time to do so. The main thing happening is that the year is starting to wind down. Some students are starting to tune out for the year. A lot of them, however are seeing this as their last chance to do what they can to make up their grades. It's interesting to see this change in...[thinks about the right word]...effort.
All year, we (teachers) have been trying hard to get our students to do their work. Despite all the warnings, making ourselves available after school, parent conferences, second chances, our students wait until the last minute. Now it is clear that these students have had this compassion. I have seen a couple of students turn their grade around in my class last week. I'm still trying what I can to help the others pass.
I'm also concerned with their level of thinking. Right now, they are in survival-mode. They are doing what the can to get at least a C so they do not have to take summer school or repeat Algebra next year. They are not actively engaged in learning. In the long run, this will not help their academics. I guess that is why it is so hard to teach 9th grade, or be a 9th grader.
I hope these students that I speak of can use this as a learning experience. If they had been putting in that much effort all year long, they would not be in this situation. They would be passing and actually learning something. Next year, I hope they can say "I don't want pull a 'freshman-year'" or "I don't want to repeat Algebra again".
All year, we (teachers) have been trying hard to get our students to do their work. Despite all the warnings, making ourselves available after school, parent conferences, second chances, our students wait until the last minute. Now it is clear that these students have had this compassion. I have seen a couple of students turn their grade around in my class last week. I'm still trying what I can to help the others pass.
I'm also concerned with their level of thinking. Right now, they are in survival-mode. They are doing what the can to get at least a C so they do not have to take summer school or repeat Algebra next year. They are not actively engaged in learning. In the long run, this will not help their academics. I guess that is why it is so hard to teach 9th grade, or be a 9th grader.
I hope these students that I speak of can use this as a learning experience. If they had been putting in that much effort all year long, they would not be in this situation. They would be passing and actually learning something. Next year, I hope they can say "I don't want pull a 'freshman-year'" or "I don't want to repeat Algebra again".
Friday, April 17, 2009
To B or to A?
Yesterday I was thinking, there is one girl in my class who does all the work. She comes to class and immediately gets started on the warm-up. She turns in her all her homework and completes all of the assignments. Yet, despite all of her hard work, she doesn't do very well on the assessments. I believe she could be doing more to improve her grade, but she currently has a solid B in my class. What I am saying is that she should be getting an A.
I am wondering: Is that the way it usually works? I am trying to think back to my math classes in high school and in college. Actually, I probably shouldn't compare my high school classes. I was an awesome math student. In college, I tried al the homework and did about average on the exams. I think my grades in my math courses were influenced more by the exams than anything else. So, if that was the case in my math class, she would not be passing right now.
But that was college. This is high school. I do not plan on changing the structure of my class. I think her grade is a fair representation of her abilities and effort. I am showing concern because I am also her advisor. I do think that she is going to have to raise her grade though. Oh and she has a C- in guitar (her lowest grade). What's up with that?
I am wondering: Is that the way it usually works? I am trying to think back to my math classes in high school and in college. Actually, I probably shouldn't compare my high school classes. I was an awesome math student. In college, I tried al the homework and did about average on the exams. I think my grades in my math courses were influenced more by the exams than anything else. So, if that was the case in my math class, she would not be passing right now.
But that was college. This is high school. I do not plan on changing the structure of my class. I think her grade is a fair representation of her abilities and effort. I am showing concern because I am also her advisor. I do think that she is going to have to raise her grade though. Oh and she has a C- in guitar (her lowest grade). What's up with that?
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Long, hard week
I know, I know. It's been awhile since I've blogged. Frankly, you would probably hear the same old thing over and over. That's probably not a good intro sentence. Let me try again.
Today my students were being little kids. I'm not talking about the adorable/charming kinds. I'm talking about the annoying, fart-sound-making, giggling at fart sounds kinds. You would think that they get the idea by now. "You're in high school. Start acting like it." I've gone over how to act like a mature high school student before.
Thinking about it now, I think I'm being too nice. I think tomorrow, I'm going to pick up a fresh stack of detention slips. Or maybe have them come during lunch for a lunch detention for making fart noises.
Well, thinking about it again, I don't think it's because I'm being too nice. I've been very preoccupied these past couple of weeks. Last week, I got a good taste of what it will be like working full-time. Last weekend, my subject area leader had his baby. He was out for the week so he asked me to cover his classes. I gladly obliged. The extra money is substantial. So during every prep period I had last week, I was covering one of his classes. I covered one AP calculus class. That was easy. I told them what sections they needed to study for the test and they got right to it and studied the entire period.
I also covered three of his Algebra I classes. For those, he had me start chapter six. So I didn't get to do the cumbersome substitute thing and babysit them. I actually carried on with his curriculum. This took time I could have used for prepping or working on UCSD work. So instead, I was there before and after school doing that.
By the end of the week, I was exhausted. No preps the entire week. Teaching my own classes, on top of that, teaching his classes, staying for tutoring and watching personal project presentations on Friday after school was a bit overwhelming. Needless to say, the weekend was well-deserved.
I think I'm starting to get the hang of this. I definitely need to be more strict and more consistent with my discipline. Sometimes I feel I don't want to deal with discipline, but I can't relegate to that sort of behavior yet. I'm not old enough.
Merit-pay for teachers?
Today my students were being little kids. I'm not talking about the adorable/charming kinds. I'm talking about the annoying, fart-sound-making, giggling at fart sounds kinds. You would think that they get the idea by now. "You're in high school. Start acting like it." I've gone over how to act like a mature high school student before.
Thinking about it now, I think I'm being too nice. I think tomorrow, I'm going to pick up a fresh stack of detention slips. Or maybe have them come during lunch for a lunch detention for making fart noises.
Well, thinking about it again, I don't think it's because I'm being too nice. I've been very preoccupied these past couple of weeks. Last week, I got a good taste of what it will be like working full-time. Last weekend, my subject area leader had his baby. He was out for the week so he asked me to cover his classes. I gladly obliged. The extra money is substantial. So during every prep period I had last week, I was covering one of his classes. I covered one AP calculus class. That was easy. I told them what sections they needed to study for the test and they got right to it and studied the entire period.
I also covered three of his Algebra I classes. For those, he had me start chapter six. So I didn't get to do the cumbersome substitute thing and babysit them. I actually carried on with his curriculum. This took time I could have used for prepping or working on UCSD work. So instead, I was there before and after school doing that.
By the end of the week, I was exhausted. No preps the entire week. Teaching my own classes, on top of that, teaching his classes, staying for tutoring and watching personal project presentations on Friday after school was a bit overwhelming. Needless to say, the weekend was well-deserved.
I think I'm starting to get the hang of this. I definitely need to be more strict and more consistent with my discipline. Sometimes I feel I don't want to deal with discipline, but I can't relegate to that sort of behavior yet. I'm not old enough.
Merit-pay for teachers?
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Slope equals rise over run
I'm beginning to realize what it might be like next year. Maybe not.
In case you haven't heard, I got an offer to teach Algebra I and Algebra II next year at Guajome. Woohoo! ***I say offer because I haven't accepted the position yet. I am definitely keeping my options open.*** That's a step up! Or maybe 2 steps up for every one step to the right, depending on the slope...
...Anyways stop laughing, I'm not complaining, but a colleague of mine was out today and I subbed for her Algebra II class for 3 periods straight. Then I still had to go to my advisory and then teach my last period. I didn't get a break (except for lunch). It won't that hectic next year of course. I will have a prep first period and collaboration 2nd. If you've been following my blog, you'll know that that's 1st block everyday. I won't have the need to rush to work everyday. The only drawback is that I won't have my own classroom. :( I don't have one as of right now anyways. I'm am going to try to push for one. It's such a pain to be one of the "traveling teachers". I could probably manage. I've been doing that this year, so it shouldn't be a determining factor. It would be nice to say that I've worked at a particular school for 2 years and it would be much much easier than going around, filling out applications and going to interviews. I will definitely keep Blogger updated.
What happened today? The Algebra II classes are great. It was the third time subbing for them this year. I think they've started to like my style.
My Algebra I class, what a bunch of 4th graders. The first half of class, we worked in the computer lab on our linearity project. For the 2nd half, we went back to the classroom and I taught a lesson on graphing linear equations. As I was getting started, many of the students were wasting time trying to acquire a sheet of paper and a writing utensil. I must have thought it was a bit entertaining because I stopped and watched for a while. Seriously, for about 5 minutes, students were arguing about who is borrowing a pencil from who, demanding paper from other people, playing tug-o-war with pens, etc. After about a good five minutes I stopped them and told them something to the effect that they need to come to class prepared with pencils and paper handy. Also, I usually provide those materials. They know that. Finally I said, if they didn't have those materials, too bad, they're not taking notes. Magically, every student had a sheet of paper on their desk and a writing utensil in the hand. I was really amazed. Really. The rest of the day actually turned out well; better than usual. I finished my lesson, even though we had less time then I had planned, with time left over to start the homework. I was content with them at the end.
Also, one of my freshman girls thinks I was a bully in high school and my middle school students think I was once part of a gang. More on that to come.
I need to learn some organizational skills.
In case you haven't heard, I got an offer to teach Algebra I and Algebra II next year at Guajome. Woohoo! ***I say offer because I haven't accepted the position yet. I am definitely keeping my options open.*** That's a step up! Or maybe 2 steps up for every one step to the right, depending on the slope...
...Anyways stop laughing, I'm not complaining, but a colleague of mine was out today and I subbed for her Algebra II class for 3 periods straight. Then I still had to go to my advisory and then teach my last period. I didn't get a break (except for lunch). It won't that hectic next year of course. I will have a prep first period and collaboration 2nd. If you've been following my blog, you'll know that that's 1st block everyday. I won't have the need to rush to work everyday. The only drawback is that I won't have my own classroom. :( I don't have one as of right now anyways. I'm am going to try to push for one. It's such a pain to be one of the "traveling teachers". I could probably manage. I've been doing that this year, so it shouldn't be a determining factor. It would be nice to say that I've worked at a particular school for 2 years and it would be much much easier than going around, filling out applications and going to interviews. I will definitely keep Blogger updated.
What happened today? The Algebra II classes are great. It was the third time subbing for them this year. I think they've started to like my style.
My Algebra I class, what a bunch of 4th graders. The first half of class, we worked in the computer lab on our linearity project. For the 2nd half, we went back to the classroom and I taught a lesson on graphing linear equations. As I was getting started, many of the students were wasting time trying to acquire a sheet of paper and a writing utensil. I must have thought it was a bit entertaining because I stopped and watched for a while. Seriously, for about 5 minutes, students were arguing about who is borrowing a pencil from who, demanding paper from other people, playing tug-o-war with pens, etc. After about a good five minutes I stopped them and told them something to the effect that they need to come to class prepared with pencils and paper handy. Also, I usually provide those materials. They know that. Finally I said, if they didn't have those materials, too bad, they're not taking notes. Magically, every student had a sheet of paper on their desk and a writing utensil in the hand. I was really amazed. Really. The rest of the day actually turned out well; better than usual. I finished my lesson, even though we had less time then I had planned, with time left over to start the homework. I was content with them at the end.
Also, one of my freshman girls thinks I was a bully in high school and my middle school students think I was once part of a gang. More on that to come.
I need to learn some organizational skills.
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