As the fall semester winds down, here are some tips that I have learned from field placement at New Albany Middle School.
1. Get to Know Your Students ASAP - The quicker you get to know the students in your classroom, the quicker they know you. This makes that awkward transition from stranger guy in the classroom to student teacher easier. You earn the respect from your students and it makes teaching lessons less worrisome.
2. Good Communication with your Cooperating Teacher - This only helps your co-op as they need to know your schedule, your requirements and what they can do for you. Always get at least their email. Always contact them if you are going to miss a day.
3. Jump Right In - Once you feel comfortable, jump right in and ask what you can do in the classroom. Start small, with passing out papers or walking around and helping students. Show you are interested! Once your co-op feels comfortable with giving you tasks they will be more willing to give you more control of the classroom.
4. Know Your Surroundings - Get to know the layout and structure of the building. Specifically, know where the copier is, staff lounge, staff resources room, bathrooms, office, nurse's room, library, computer lab, it only makes things easier when students ask you a question to go somewhere.
5. Know the Secretary and Other Staff - Get to know the office secretary, it makes things smoother when you do not know where a place is or a protocol for doing something. Plus it will make signing in and out for the day less of a pain if you know the secretary. Also, greet anyone who looks like a teacher or administrator even if you have no clue who you are. It makes you seem confident and comfortable.
6. Be Yourself - This last and most important. Be yourself each day because this how you develop your own teaching style. Students and staff will get to know you for you. This can be tricky when trying to follow you Co-op's rules, never go against their classroom policies. Be as confident as you can and make it the best experience possible.
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