Almost over…

Wow, i didn’t realise how long it had been between blogs…. End of semester, sickness, family and Professional Experience have all compounded and caused an immense workload.  We are midway through our third week of Prac and I don’t know where the time has gone.  I have loved being in the classroom every day and this Prac has allowed me to sigh a sense of relief that I am making the right decision.  At times I have struggled with the workload, and feel that my assignments have suffered.  They have definitely taken a back seat to the Prac requirements.  Although this is a third year Prac it has been over 7 years since I have been in a classroom and I have had an amazing mentor who has allowed me to gain confidence without overburdening me.  

My teaching has increased as per the Professional Experience outlines and this week I am teaching all of the Maths lessons as well as History and Arts.  English and Science assessments are being completed and the teacher has advised that she wants to continue taking these classes for continuity however, I have been assisting in a supplementary role and helping students that require extra assistance with these tasks.  Something that is both rewarding and daunting as how do you possible do this on your own?

Today the Deputy Principal sat in an observed me teaching a maths class.  He gave some great feedback which was appreciated. One thing he mentioned was calling on the students without their hand up even if they may not have the correct answer… One reason I have been reluctant to do this was because I am unsure as to how to address inconsistencies and incorrect answers without causing undue embarrassment to the student and also how to re-address the class if the answer is completely off topic… Any hints, tips or ideas on this would be appreciated… Thanks and good luck everyone with your final days of Professional Experience.