Reflections from an (Almost) Teacher.

I found some reflections I wrote while I was on prac last term.

• I want to see kids do well - Not so much get top marks in tests (Naplan rubbish), but to experience success and avoid confusion. 
• I must be careful not to make things too easy for them though - I must let them take some responsibility for their actions and learning
• I notice a lot of things with kids in the classroom, I like to hone in if I can, but I must remember to pick my battles. 
• I cannot be everywhere at once. I cannot assume a role in a number of activities and run them all at once (like in a rotation)
• I mustn’t take for granted the ‘easiness’ of a task, especially with the preps. I should assume I will have to closely supervise everything (so that I’m prepared)
• Ask: What kind of learner is he/she?
• We cannot change people’s/children’s behaviour, only themselves can do that - We just managed the behaviour. 
• I mustn’t be afraid to try something different in the classroom, especially if things just aren’t working

These were all points that I jotted down as I noticed them as I taught and assisted during my prac. Many were majorly influenced by a terrible lesson I taught on circles, which was observed by the deputy, and quickly identified all my weaknesses. It was a good lesson in theory, but due to many factors (being nervous about being observed, trying to remember behaviour management strategies, being an interrupted day for the kiddies…) everything went horribly and while I was busy implementing a number of positive behaviour management strategies, I forgot to really make the lesson fun for the kids, and I lost them. And I cried. But everyone was really nice and it really has helped me learn so much.