ED 645 - Week 8

This week, we finalized our teaching philosophy. In theory, I thought it would be a breeze to write my philosophy. Upon writing it though, it proved to be a much more difficult task. It really is hard to form up an entire theory in two pages. There was so much I wanted to say but so little real estate to do it in. Thoughts need to be presented clearly to the reader while ensuring that everything that is important to you as a teacher is covered. I found that some important things had to be left out so I could ensure the most important points were conveyed. The one saving grace is that this document is part of an entire portfolio. This allows me to highlight other important aspects of my teaching by providing examples of my philosophy in my classroom.

ED 645 - Week 7

Finally, I experienced my first unplanned absence. Waking up sick is a horrible feeling but knowing I had to call out made things worse. I feel that it is very important to be transparent with my students as much as possible. I know that students adapt better when their schedules are uninterrupted. This is simply not the case when you get sick unexpectedly.
My students were generally behaved although several assignments were turned in with inappropriate content. Upon my return, we discussed what I had seen and discussed my expectations when I am there and when I am not. I think this actually worked out well because it afforded me the opportunity to review my classroom expectations.
This upcoming week will include my first scheduled absence. This was a little different because I was able to discuss this with my students ahead of time. We talked about what they would be doing in hopes that they will be more willing to complete the aasignments. I've also set up having my STAT teacher check in during the more difficult class that day. A familiar face will be good for my students and let them know that I made careful plans for a successful day.
With a call out, we have a stock of emergency sub plans that we created in the beginning of the school year. However, with the day next week, I am faced with creating a lesson that engages my students but is easily understandable by anyone that subs in my classroom. I am finding this more difficult, not wanting to simply leave a few reading assignments for them to complete. For my standard class, they will be completing a school mandated reading and a packet on bonding. The packet will allow them to interact directly with the curriculum. I am going to allow them to work collaboratively hoping this will be an incentive for them to complete the assignment. For my honors students, they will be working on constructing a scientific argument. I am providing them a choice on the topic, leaving three different readings to choose from. They will also be working on the bonding packet. I am hoping that with prior knowledge of my absence and more engaging assignments, my students will have a successful day without me.

ED 645 - Week 6

Formative and summative assessments are very important in the classroom. Summative assessments allow teachers to see what a student has learned over a period of time; over a unit, a semester, or a year to give a few examples. Formative assessments are equated to checkpoints and allow a teacher to see a multitude of things about a students learning. A teacher can see where a student is in the learning process and make adjustments to lessons in order to accommodate student needs.
What I like about formative assessments is their diversity. They are so diverse that students do not even realize they are being assessed. I also like that formative assessment can be student driven. I use learning logs everyday in my classroom. Students have a daily drill page that includes a drill space and a learning log space. As part of the drill, students reflect on their learning in the learning log. Time permitting, I will have students return to their learning log at the end of a lesson and reassess their understanding. This is a really important process because students are in control of their learning and can see their growth on their own terms.
Through my numerous observations, I have been commended on my ability to weave formative assessment seamlessly into my lessons. Also, that I truly understand my students needs and make quick adjustments as necessary. This has been really encouraging feedback to recieve as a first time teacher.