Week 1

Last Thursday and Friday I observed my fourth grade mentor classroom. One of the best things about it was becoming refamiliar with the classroom and really seeing how all of the students are willing to participate and learn. Practically every student was ready with a raise of their hands! The worst part of my experience was when I thought I had left behind the seating chart my mentor teacher had given to me prior. But guess what? I found it! I also left my special pen in their Firday. But that was okay because maybe it is being put to good use. I learned how walking around the room is affective in teaching. I helps keep an eye on the student as well as ensure student understanding. I also learned that in a fourth grade class how it is important to constantly repeat yourself for effective learning. Another thing I picked up on was her use of stating the objective before the lesson and how she used models in her math lesson. Models can be simple and uncomplicated and still get the point across. I can already tell that this year is going to be different from last year. The structure of the class is more organized, less noisy, and set up differently than the first grade class from last year. I'm also finding it easier to memorize names because there is less moving around. I am so excited to get this year moving forward!

Memorable Teachers

In seventh and eighth grade I had a history teacher who was very memorable to me. His name was Mr. T and he stood out to me because he always told it how it really was and was honest in everything he did. Mr.T constantly stayed true to his beliefs and as a student at that age it really inspires you to follow in those footsteps. He made learning about current events come alive by having in class discussions that really helped you form your own opinions about the world and how it opporates. We commonly had debates, read the newspaper, and he also lead us in a community project called Project Citizen which helped us get involved in the community. Mr.T was very inspirational and I am so glad that I had him as a teacher. He made me realize what becoming a teacher can really stand for.

Introduction

My name is Hannah Ashburn. I am a high schoool student who dreams of becoming a future educator. This is my second year in Education Professions. Last year I worked with first graders in a mentor classroom at a local elementary school. This year I have moved up to experience the life in a fourth grade classroom at a different elementary school. I love kids and think it is wonderful what they have to offer. I hope I can learn how to become a better educator this year and gain more confidence in my teaching. Last year I had the opportunity to present two lessons to the first graders and this year I am taking on three. I am very excited to demonstrate how I have improved and learned from taking this class.