Learning Letter Assignment

Within my time in English 493 I have learned some valuable lessons and teaching strategies that I will take with me as I advance onward in the Education program. Throughout this coarse we have talked about theories and concepts, presented about books, mini-lessons, and built unit plans. Within the 10 week course we have covered so much. 

For my book talk, I presented on To Kill a Mockingbird, which I was already reading for my practicum class. This was my first time reading this book and because of Chris Tovani’s lessons within her book, I wasn’t afraid to tell my students that. I was open to them about my reading techniques when I was their age and was able to connect with them on that level. By reading this book for the first time, I was able to pick up on more things than when I only read sparknotes. 

The mini lesson proved to be beneficial and kind of ridiculous. I hate making a 50 minute lecture in only 20 minutes. I feel rushed and then I get thrown off by keeping track of time. For my part of the lesson, I was in charge of the biography of Poe. My lesson was mainly lectured based with some peer interaction with the crossword puzzle, but overall I wish I had made it a little more challenging. 

The unit plan proved to be more difficult than I gave it credit for. I struggled with my lesson plans and connecting everything together to make it equal out to the final project. I learned that it is tough to make Romeo and Juliet a month long unit. I know in reality it would take at least a month and a half. It was beneficial to create this unit plan, so that I am able to get more organized and prepared for full time student teaching in the spring, when we really do read Romeo and Juliet. 

Within our discussion in class, I learned a lot about the many theories of teaching and how I can bring some of that to my own classroom. I have already taught my students how to be active readers, and to take notes when reading. This proved to be beneficial for them and they did so much better on their test because of it. Some discussions made me question the educational field. I would often debate whether or not we are putting too much thought into the aspect of teaching or if I am not putting enough into it. I know there is a lot to teach students, but the science and theories of teaching often make me feel overwhelmed. 

By reading the handouts and participating in discussion I have come to the conclusion that I do need to put more research within my classroom. I need to continue to read theories and teaching suggestions so that it will make me a more qualified and educated teacher. When we become teachers, learning doesn’t stop after graduation. It continues throughout our career.