I still have been having such a great time in my field experience! I really enjoy when my cooperating teacher allows us to work with small groups, I really like doing reading and mini lessons in small group, it is nice to work with only 6-8 students at a single time because I feel like you have more control and they listen a little better. Sometimes they get distracted, but it is easy to get back on track when working in a small group versus the entire class. It is really nice to be able to help them with the mini lessons they work on and I love answering questions, it is great experience!
Also, during the day I am there for a good portion of math so I get to help answer questions that pertain to math which is good practice as well since I need practice in math! I enjoy being able to see what they are learning in math and different stories they are reading in language arts because it gives me an idea of what 3rd grade really would be like if I were to teach this grade in the future, so far I can say I absolutely love this grade! It is really nice to see the different activities done each and every day to get a feel for how each day is different. My cooperating teacher is wonderful and always very prepared! She has been teaching for many years and it is obvious! She handles the students so well and definitely knows how to teach!
I have noticed that as well, how easy it is get back on track with a small group versus a large one. I actually got swamped yesterday by an out of control class. I was trying to bring them back to attention, but it was unsuccessful and frustrating. That hasn't happened in centers/small group work.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad to hear your experience is going great! I have definitely noticed that it's easier to work with a small group than the entire class too. I work with small groups during reading workshops and you can quickly see what students aren't really focused or understanding; and can direct them back easier than during a whole class lesson.
ReplyDeleteIt is also very interesting to me when I am with the small groups and each student takes a turn reading, you can really notice the different reading levels there are. Each student is at a different reading level and pace it seems. It is really obvious to see the ones who struggle and the ones who do not.
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