Journal 10/6/09 The Randomness Continues...

Domain 3 Professional Development
My teacher has been teaching my lessons and preparing for them and everything! I think I've kind of been surprised but grateful! She's doing great! I'm glad I had those extra lessons planned so that it would help her transition. That sounds funny...doesn't it?

I observed a 4th grade teacher today, and might I say that I think she is a great teacher. Even though I did not observe much (only a math lesson after last week's assessment), from hearing her share in the teacher's lounge and just from talking to her and observing how she is with students, I know that she is applying the things that we have learned in class. I wrote down a lot...does that surprise you...and gave it to her. I was hoping that she wouldn't take offense to anything I suggested or wrote down. She had asked me to feel free to make some suggestions or review what she did, so I told her I would give her a copy of what I did. She came down a few minutes later and said that she showed the principal what I did and that it was as if I had been teaching for 10 years. All I did was apply the basic lesson plan outline and suggested some ways to make the most of her time...all things I owe to you and the rest of the professors...nothing special! It was neat to be able to verbalize how great a job I think she is doing and that appreciate the work she is doing. I was reflecting on her ability with the aide, and I think part of it has to do with the fact that she went back later in life for her degree, so she has more "moder philosophy and understanding" behind her. She understands what it takes to be a teacher today and is willing to and actually does rise to the occasion. It was an encouraging experience all around. AND I HOPE YOU ARE ENCOURAGED BY THE FACT THAT YOU GUYS ARE TRULY PREPARING US! THANK YOU!

There was a little tension in the lunch room today with the 3rd/4th grade teachers and the other special ed teacher over which reading assessment to use. To make a long story short, what I gathered from the situation is that COLLABORATION (I like caps today:)) is huge. If they were all working together or the whole school had a plan in which to assess students, there would not be this "problem" or "issue" so to speak...IRI's vs. Running Records. I can't wait to help add to the team effort/work of my school!

My teacher worked with "my" 4th grader today, and he was in good spirits, and it seemed to go super well which was a relief to me. I feel like I am letting him go into good hands. I hope that continues and that she realizes his abilities and strengths and doesn't "feed" him the work/information. I was so encouraged by this!

I was also reflecting on the fact that one of the 6th graders is always asking, "right"? Learned helplessness...perhaps from not bieng encouraged to do much on his own, even though he does do work on his own, he is never sure of his abilities...just a thought?!? Just something I was trying to think through. Perhaps he has no assurance of his knowledge or confidence in his abilities...

My student that "moved" is coming back! YEAH!