Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Now I Think I Can Do Anything!
My first day subbing went over with many a hitch, which I believe can only improve with experience. The class that I had chosen as my first class was not what it would have seemed at first glance, and my ignorance of terminology only added fuel to the fire. It was a junior high school class, but the students were learning and behavior disabled children. I didn't realize it until someone told me about it after third period. (I was wondering what was up with my classroom control!) For some of these kids, there is no control. It did help my understanding of the kids much more by knowing their needs, however, and the day progressed better. I found out that when you bribe them with learning, they are eager to learn. For instance, I told one of the classes that if they did their assignment, then in the last ten minutes of class I would teach them how to write each of their names in Arabic. They were thrilled and all of them did their assignments perfectly! Another class was a complete mess, and I am sure that I became the proverbial "sub" for those students, warts, pointy hat and all. They kept looking for my car in the parking lot and I told them I drove my broom to school. (I think some of them believed me!)
At any rate, today I am teaching fourth grade and am employing the assistance of my stuffed monkey Mohamed for classroom control! (He makes a noise when you squeeze his tummy!)
At any rate, today I am teaching fourth grade and am employing the assistance of my stuffed monkey Mohamed for classroom control! (He makes a noise when you squeeze his tummy!)
