Wins
Even though I only taught two classes this week, I was still working with the students throughout the day. In my Small Engines class, my students were accepting of me teaching the course as they have so far been attentive in class. During my first day of teaching, I had connected with quite a few of them since the majority enjoy cars, dirt bikes, and engines. Another win for the week was during the time of an exam. Students that finished their midterm were allowed to go to the shop in order to finish their projects for the semester. Mr. Kalupson had asked me to observe and assist the students in the shop as needed. I had worked with one of the students that wanted to give up on his project to encourage him to stick with it. It took some time, but through working with him I got him to nearly finish the project.
Losses
My second day teaching engines was rough. My method of delivering material was not satisfactory in my opinion. I am sure I still reached the students, but my performance was not at its best. I have spent this week re-evaluating how to deliver carburetor components effectively for the next class.
Moving Forward
As I move into next week, I am finding new ways to teach myself content as well as ways to teach it to my students.
Questions
Mentors: What are some teaching strategies you use to introduce parts ID or identification of plant or animal parts?
Luke,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your "wins" and "losses". I do believe, however that you did "lose", but rather you will learn how to be better for next time. One thing that I have done in the past for parts ID for small engines was to give everyone a "birthday gift". I would wrap up the part, give it to them, allow them to open it in front of the class, and then either identify it themselves or with the help of their classmates. Then whatever part they got, they had to do research on it/how it worked with other parts of the engine (in this case) and then report back to the class. Then as a follow-up, I would have the students get up and stand (with their part) next to/near other people that had parts that worked together. Basically, everyone would be up and see how their part interacted with other parts.
I hope this idea helps/spurs some other thoughts. Have fun!
Dr. Ewing
It sounds like overall a great week! How many classes did you start off teaching?
ReplyDeleteFor teaching strategies if you can quiz students first it helps to show the "why." Either have the tools out, or a powerpoint with the words delayed, or a kahoot/quizlet. I have really loved using quizlet live for basic id. Other options for agronomy are to take kids outside and see what they can already ID, or have pictures throughout the room. Give candy to those that try if your class is apprehensive.
Hey Luke! I am glad to hear that you already started teaching. I am sure there is a big difference between observation and taking charge of the class as the teacher. In your wins, I love hearing that you motivated a student to keep working on a project that they were ready to throw away. I'm excited to hear how you work to teach carburetors this week. Should be exciting!! Good luck!
ReplyDeleteHi Luke,
ReplyDeleteI have several different strategies I use to teach ID.
1. Show them the real thing!
2. Label blank pictures/diagrams on paper
3. Cut and paste--Create a document with the names of the items and another with pictures. Have them cut out the pictures and paste them under the correct name.
4. Google Slide Show--Have students create a slide show with pictures and names. Use animations to have the names come up after the picture. Works as a great study tool and classroom game. Trained many CDE teams with this method.
5. Scavenger hunt--have them go find the items, lay them out, and label them/describe function. Hands on.
Depending on what is I will sometimes give them the names and parts right away. Then have them match them to see where we are at. After they do that we go over the correct name and make changes as needed. I am a big believer in repetition helping teach vocab/parts. We will play games such as I have, who has, name that part, slap jack and matching. The kids seem to enjoy the competition and don't realize they are learning:)
ReplyDeleteConnecting with students is huge! If they don't like/respect you they won't be open to anything you say.