This past week was easy but crazy at the same time. I started off by picking up a new class, building construction. Now I am at a full load. I am teaching electricity now which is not a strong point for me. It is taking a lot more on my end to be prepared to show the students the skill set that is needed. To tell you the truth I still do not completely understand it which is making it that much more harder.
Once again ag foundations is testings my limits. This week in the shop has gone better but I am still have trouble with students not coming to class wearing the right type of clothing. Section A has one girl that is never prepared so I made her do a chapter out of the book. Then to top it off on Tuesday, I had 5 girls from Section B not prepared. I made them do research and then write a paper on different types of welding. While they were in the classroom they were complaining and asked my corp teacher since she was in charge if she could make me not make them do this. To my surprise, she told them that it was her idea. That made them be quiet.
Wednesday, I was gone so I had a sub come in. All my classes handled this well except for the ag foundations. They watched the movie and did the worksheet with it then when it came time for them to read a chapter and do the questions they started to complain calling it busy work. Needless to say when I got back to school at the end of the day and the sub told me what they said and how they acted I was pissed. I have decided to confront the students about this and they are still going to have to do the book work just to show them that it was to be done and it was not busy work.
Hopefully this week is better..........
Val, remember not to use 'book work' as a punishment. Something to think about for the students not coming prepared to class regarding proper clothing, is to have extra clothes in the ag department that students can wear. I used to keep a couple extra pairs of jeans, long sleeved shirts, and work boots in my bolt room for students who weren't prepared. When I was in high school, I actually brought a pair of jeans, a shirt, and closed toe work boots I stored in the ag room for my shop classes. This may also be an alternative. Also, be careful not to fall into the habit of having videos and worksheets for substitutes when you are absent. Students have always and always will show resistance to these learning activities. I am completely aware that students are not permitted to work with equipment/tools in the shop when a substitute is present, but there are many activities that a substitute can facilitate in the classroom that will keep students engaged and contribute to their development in the shop.
ReplyDeleteOn another note, all ag teachers have a subject area they aren't always the most confident in. Yes, it will take more time in preparation, but don't be afraid to seek out assistance from peers, colleagues, and even students. There are many resources available to help you learn electrical material prior to teaching. Be sure to utilize and exhaust all resources. Part of the student teaching experience is learning how to handle situations as these and stretching yourself to step out of your comfort zone to be fully prepared.
As always, we are here to help and are proud of your work thus far!