In Mr. Ambrose's physics class, he taught for a while - about light - and then gave the class time to work on their bridges. Some of them are having trouble, but others are coming along quite well. He built one himself, and we tested it with a 1-kg weight (2.2 pounds) - it held. The weight specified is 2 pounds, so if someone wants to see an example of a bridge that will withstand the weight, we have one. The due date for the assignment will be the Monday after spring break - that way, if they can't finish in class, they can make arrangements to meet their teammates to work over the break. Some of them work very well, but others need to learn how to use time wisely - it's a skill that will serve them well throughout their lives.
In Ms. Colwell's advanced algebra class, there was a substitute teacher. She's expected back Monday, so she just left a worksheet for the students to work on, and I spent my time there helping them when they got stuck. As I talked to the students, it became clear that some of them are still confused about what my purpose in the classroom is - they can't quite understand the difference between a U of M teaching fellow/graduate student and a student teacher. I wonder if there's some way we could build up a clear identity for the program in the students' minds... the obvious first thought is something like polo shirts with the OE^2 logo on them. There may be a better idea, but it's definitely something to think about, because part of the impact of giving them a role model could be lost if they aren't sure what the model's role is in the first place.
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2 comments:
Diane,
I agree that the difference between a student teacher and a U of M teaching fellow is not clear. I had thought that a showcase or bulletin board with information about all of the teaching fellows and the purpose of the program would help. Despite the fact that it may not be clear to the students, you are doing a great job!
Maturity seems to be a factor that correlates with good use of time. Certainly, modeling good use of time and encouraging good use of time helps. Make sure you complement the students who are using their time wisely. You may also nudge the groups who are not using time wisely by asking questions or making suggestions.
Thanks for being in our classrooms and encouraging our students!
Carol Cramer
Diane,
Thanks for the suggestion on differentiating the Teaching Fellows from student teachers. We've also talked about having nice nametags with the logo that can be worn every time the TF is in the classroom.
Joy
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