The Internet was Broken

www.hooksigns.com

At school today whilst attempting to engage in IT Development, the internet decided not to cooperate. Luckily for me I had already done a few of the exercises on my own so many things were not new to me. I was happy to learn and soon to put into practice the Assignment section to be able to edit students work without having to download it. Happy about that aspect.

Finished Geography Outline for Term 1 Week 1 Year 2015-1016. Thoroughly happy about that. Having Ms Jack who is an enthusiast in the field of Geography has been a great help. Now on to tackling my history, 

For the past CSEC EXAMs, of my 26 students who sat the exams, 16 pasted and 10 failed. Not a happy marker even though the percentage pass was higher than previous years at 66. Not good enough for me. My students must be place in a position to do better and that is where my job comes in.

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For Homeschooling, Have set up an edmodo account for home. It's essential that I allot schedule for the kids to be occupied with learning. Not just book but in everyday interactions and doing. The concept of life lessons is reaching home.

As part of Life Lessons - Lesson 1

Teaching the kids how to sew. My niece first sewed yesterday using my machine. Just something impromptu. However tomorrow would be S first lesson - sewing a pillow case. I would also be teaching T to do the same.

Professional Development Week

edlights.com

PDW began today for all Teachers. This was my first and I greatly enjoyed it. The opening session took place at the Pastoral Center in Edinboro. Teachers from the various Catholic Schools throughout the country were in attendance.

The session began with greeting and catching up. Later prayer and song and a presentation by Bishop. The team was RESPECT. Group work and discussion were done centering around in school and out of school related circumstances. My team dealt with rudeness of a student/young person to the elder and how the situation would be handle. Sanctions suggested were counselling, apology and community service at an elderly centre. The section ended with teachers stated one goal they wish to accomplish for the new school year related to respect.

The later part of the day was spent at school where I met with the new geography teacher who would be teaching Grade 9-11 whilst I have all Grade 7 and 8. We began our planning process which was a great 2 hrs that dealt with Grade 7. Continuation of the planning process tomorrow.

Managing Your Students

Teaching is never easy. Managing a classroom of 30 plus students at one time is a 'hair puller'. I have found that in dealing with my students that preparation and engagement is essential. Having students always engaged in their own learning has aided me tremendously.

Another important aspect of classroom management I have found is the art of learning and getting to know my students by name. Learning about their interests and respecting them as individuals who are growing and learning to find themselves.

Please enjoy the video below and I do hope it aids you in this new school year.

www.123rf.com

Without sleep last night I spent the day teaching the kids via the internet. Maths, Spelling, Reading and Language Art. A full Day. Today instead of having the entire crew together, I separated out each student which  helped a great deal especial whilst teaching the First and Second Graders. 

Tomorrow would be focused on reading. Need a break from intense learning.

The Art of Students Teaching Student Learning (Peer)

blogs.tribune.com.pk

Having my nieces teach each other has always been a successful in tool in their learning. I have often found that they retain a great deal more and learn in their own special way. They are often more patient with each other and find fun ways to get their messages across. Becoming their Ms Jane Doe .

Today's Summer Classes consisted of reading, spelling and mathematics (Grade 3 & 8) and Maths - revision of long division.

Summer School Continues

I swear on this.. I had two months vacation from teaching and I haven't had a moments rest from teaching. Summer school is in full swing and I am not about to stop.

Becoming a Teacher

www.ifp.nsw.edu.au

Time has passed so fast.. So much going on. 

First Full Term of Teaching

Started teaching last October 2014. Subject areas: History (Grade 8-11) and Geography (Grade 7 and 8). Due to my late arrival I had a lot of catching up to do and I made a great deal of errors but I learnt on the go. I must admit it was a challenging time. I felt so overwhelmed at time, at various points I was broken but I kept going and refused to give up.

I learnt many new skills and found time to enjoy interactions with my students and the staff. I am looking forward to the coming New School term.

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School is on vacation. Have spent much of the vacation working with my Fifth Formers' on their SBAs. Next week Teacher Development week starts, This would be my first.

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digitalmediadiet.com

Summer School

Started Summer School with m nieces and Aj. It was overwhelming because there was not much planning... Simply reviewing past exam papers. It all continues again tomorrow.