Reflection #2 9-10-09

WHAT?

This week, since we did not have Instructional Media, I am reflecting on my favorite lesson of the week. This lesson was in our Arts Integration Methods class. At the begining of the class we all sat in a circle and started a movement game where everyone had to do exactly what the leader was doing. We used this game in two different kinds of ways as well. As we played this game we were thinking about how we could use this game in our classes to calm our students, get them to work together, and bring unity into the classroom.

SO WHAT?

The Movement Game was important to me because I'm a very active person. At some times I feel as if I need to focus in on one thing to get anything done. My student I'm sure will feel overwhelmed by homework and projects. After recess or at the begining of class the movements game would be a great idea because it will not only bring me back into teaching mode, but bring the students into a state where they will be calm and able to enjoy learning. This game is not just about getting away from learning. The students won't know at first, but they are also learning through this game. They are learning how to cooperate with either a partner (by switching who's in charge of moving first), or in a group (by having one student leave the class, choose a leader, come back and have to figure out who the leader is). Another thought I had with this game is that if my students are just out of control, can't concentrate, and need a point of focus, even if it's in the middle of class, I can have them grab a partner, break into small groups, or even have the whole class in one group to calm their minds and unify them in one thing.

NOW WHAT?

As I get ready to become a teacher, I know that I will have days where I will have students not paying attention and fooling around. The biggest thing I need to remember is that I can not give up on my students. If I allow my students to control the class, they will never learn anything, and I will be a terrible teacher. My favorite lesson from this week will help me to bring my students back to square one where I can steer them into an attitude where they will be able to start learning again.