Week 1 finished - back to school.
Last year, I gave out report cards for my kids to fill out on how I was doing as a teacher. I did well in most categories, but on more than a few cards...well....let's just say I scored 'less than stellar' on 'Makes Class Interesting.'
:(
Ouch. Bummer.
I have been teaching for eight years - and the same courses, no less - and yeah, it's true. I've gotten lazy. I've gotten comfortable.
So, my goal for this year is to really do my best to amp things up in the interest department and not just rely on what I've always done. I also try really hard in that first week to develop a safe, warm, inviting classroom climate - you know, get to know you activities, engage them in talking and participating. I think it's really important that we become more than one-dimensional people to each other.
Well, the first three days went great. I felt like there was good energy, good attitudes, good participation. I love being a teacher the first three days. But already, I can see some of them getting that far-away look in their eyes... and that scares me a little. What does it take to keep their attention??? Their attention spans are so short. Can I do this? Am I really up for this? Sometimes it feels like a losing battle :(
But overall, I'm optimistic. I know I will need to be on top of my game this year. I know it will require more work on my part (nothing new about that as far as teaching goes). I know it will require me to put myself in their shoes and stretch my imagination a bit.
I just gotta remind myself that it's worth it. They are worth. Every life, every student is important. To me. To God. He is the parent of every one of my students.
And if those reasons weren't enough, it's my act of worship to the Lord:
"Whatever you do, do it heartily, as unto the Lord, not unto men." (Col. 3:23).
As we like to say in our school - Welcome to your 180 day missions trip.
Last year, I gave out report cards for my kids to fill out on how I was doing as a teacher. I did well in most categories, but on more than a few cards...well....let's just say I scored 'less than stellar' on 'Makes Class Interesting.'
:(
Ouch. Bummer.
I have been teaching for eight years - and the same courses, no less - and yeah, it's true. I've gotten lazy. I've gotten comfortable.
So, my goal for this year is to really do my best to amp things up in the interest department and not just rely on what I've always done. I also try really hard in that first week to develop a safe, warm, inviting classroom climate - you know, get to know you activities, engage them in talking and participating. I think it's really important that we become more than one-dimensional people to each other.
Well, the first three days went great. I felt like there was good energy, good attitudes, good participation. I love being a teacher the first three days. But already, I can see some of them getting that far-away look in their eyes... and that scares me a little. What does it take to keep their attention??? Their attention spans are so short. Can I do this? Am I really up for this? Sometimes it feels like a losing battle :(
But overall, I'm optimistic. I know I will need to be on top of my game this year. I know it will require more work on my part (nothing new about that as far as teaching goes). I know it will require me to put myself in their shoes and stretch my imagination a bit.
I just gotta remind myself that it's worth it. They are worth. Every life, every student is important. To me. To God. He is the parent of every one of my students.
And if those reasons weren't enough, it's my act of worship to the Lord:
"Whatever you do, do it heartily, as unto the Lord, not unto men." (Col. 3:23).
As we like to say in our school - Welcome to your 180 day missions trip.
2 comments:
Love that you have your kids grade you as well. What a great idea to get good feedback. We certainly need more teachers like you! Hope you have a great year!
Happy Saturday SITS Sharefest!
Praise the Lord!! I LOVE your Bible verse.
I hope you find the inspiration you seek... and the ability to hold the attention of the young ones... then email me and tell me what you did ok?!???? :)
God bless-
Amanda
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