I believe that students learn best when having fun, so we will play many "games." These games will all be used to teach or reinforce content areas, or to aid in transitions. For example, mini games or Simon Says gives students a short mental break from learning, as well as a physical outlet to get out pent up energy. Getting out required materials or moving to a new area can all be incorporated into the game. This makes the time fun and productive.
b. Are you more authoritative and teacher centered or collaborative and student centered? Why?
I am a student centered teacher, because I believe that student-centered teaching helps students to develop important critical thinking and problem solving skills. I am capable of using teacher-centered method, which I frequently do in this internship. In my classroom, I am in charge of the reading lessons, as well as read alouds, which tend to be teacher centered by nature.
c. What types of routines will you establish in your classroom?
I will establish a morning routine that will include unpacking, preparing for the day, turning in homework, and any other necessary morning activities. Things such as reading, taking AR tests, or other grade-level appropriate activities will be the last part of the routine, which can take up an indefinite amount of time. This allows for students who come in as soon as they are able, as well as students who come in right before the bell. There will also be bathroom routines, end-of-the-day routines, and lunch time routines.
d. How will they be useful in creating a positive and productive learning environment?
Routines allow students to know what is expected of them, which helps the day to run more smoothly. Routines are very beneficial for children, both in the classroom and at home. When the students know and follow the routines, there is more time left for learning, instead of constantly giving directions for the same things that are done every day.
Games are great reinforcement activities! They DO have fun and it makes for a memorable learning experience that they can place into their knowledge bank and build their prior knowledge.
ReplyDeleteI too, intend to be student centered because without students there would be no teachers so we must focus our lessons for the students.
You have hit the nail on the head in regards to establishing and practicing routines. I am in a kindergarten classroom and without routines their whole day is a distraction. It is essential for all teacher to front load routines and expectations in the beginning of the year so that each day can provide for a calm consistent environment, which provides the best learning.