Student Teaching is going pretty well for me. I'm noticing
attitudes are a huge influence in the classroom more so than completing their
work. If they are in a good mood, they
do more work. Simple as that. We are about to complete their novel, "The
Absolutely True Story of a Part-time Indian." The students seem to really
like reading the dialogue in parts rather than just the teacher reading it. It
helps different readers connect to the different styles; reading, hearing, and
seeing.
I have one student I really want to get on track and we even
create a spot for him in the classroom with his pencil and supplies he can use
when needed. Most teachers would give up on him or emphasize he needs to bring
his own materials but we went from him not showing up to class, to showing up
tardy to now showing up early and on time. It is in baby steps that we are
assessing how he is doing and going from there. The student has things going on with his
family that sometimes prevent him from showing up but his attitude is mostly
one of the class clown. I allow him his moments so he doesn't act out but also
keeping him in check so he doesn't run the classroom himself.
We take breaks from the novel which helps them dive back
into it after we do a related activity but away from reading. It gets
monotonous reading day after day so when I teach a novel, I will remember to
take breaks for fun and meaningful activities. We do things like vocabulary guides and
characterization sheets so they can draw the characters in their head. I found
a teaching guide that people can use for the novel that includes vocabulary and
activities:
Scholastic offers teaching plans for certain novels as well
so it is just something teachers can pull from if needed. This is something I
would include in my Semester Plan so I have more material rather than just
reading. I'm excited for the rest of the
semester and how my students will do after the novel and their tests to see
their retention with the different style of reading.
I think it's great that you and your cooperating teacher have made a difference in that student's life. Unlike many teachers, you are taking the time to work with a difficult student. This shows your true commitment to your students and it seems like you are making some progress. Kudos! I also think that taking a break from the reading is necessary and also more beneficial for your students than if you were to read the novel straight through. They need time to reflect and critically think about the reading in order for them to learn in a meaningful way. I also love that you and CT are reading Alexie's novel! It is an amazing book and I hope to include it in my own curriculum. Finally, thank your for sharing that resource! It looks extremely helpful so I will definitely check it out.
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