Week 8; October 17-21

I rate this week a 5. 

• Observe: I was delightfully surprised at how well the edTPA percussion lesson went this week. The students improvised on drums to accompany a song from Panama, and went really awesome. 

• Reflect: I will be more prepared with the processes of the activities in the lessons, specifically for kindergarten.

• Focus:  I’m completing my commentaries to finish my edTPA segment. I’m also recording my screencasts this weekend to complete my technology portfolio component. 

• Be Productive: To be honest and vulnerable, I spent too much time on media this week. I’m sure none of you can relate. :) 

• Have Courage: There are always those instances a few times each week where I am apprehensive about whether I was too strict/not strict enough with management in the classroom. 

• Begin Anew: Be prepared to teach final edTPA lesson—post-assessment!

Data: Informal assessment revealed that my Friday first grade class needs more practice with singing in their head voices. 

Advice…don’t procrastinate. If you have already procrastinated, stop procrastinating stopping your procrastination. 

Standard 1d, “Teachers advocate for schools and students.” I am really making a specific effort to incorporate the jargon used in the Positive Behavior Intervention and Support system at Spindle Elementary. There are about 10 different phrases that teachers should incorporate into their teaching. For example, teachers should tell students to “be proactive” if they want them to be responsible. They should tell students to “synergize” if they want them to work together. This is part of my school improvement plan, and it is my goal to use this language at least once in every lesson. 

Standard 2b, “Teachers embrace diversity in the school community and in the world.” After students were playing the drums with “Al Tambor,” a student raised her hand and shared that she spoke Spanish and understood the song. Then, I encouraged her to share the translation with the class, emphasizing how it was really awesome that she understood the Spanish lyrics and that music was allowing us to connect with another culture. 

Standard 3c, “Teachers recognize the interconnectedness of content areas/disciplines.” All of third grade is rehearsing Veteran’s Day music for an upcoming opportunity for them to sing at the Rutherford County Salute to Veterans. In each lesson, we discuss what it means to be a veteran versus active duty,  why we express gratitude for those who serve in the military, and sacrifices that military members make. Their music lessons therefore connect with topics of history. 

Standard 4d, “Teachers integrate and utilize technology in their instruction.” For edTPA this week (fourth grade), students took a virtual quiz on their iPads, on www.quizizz.com. It’s user friendly, free, and students really seem to enjoy it. It provides immediate feedback to teachers and students. I highly recommend it.”

Standard 5c, “Teachers function effectively in a complex, dynamic environment.” As I mentioned, fourth grade took a virtual quiz. In one class, I was specifically aware of a student who comprehends at a first grade level. So, I sat/stood near her and sometimes would explain the meanings of the words in order to ensure her understanding as best as possible. This strategy is called comprehension monitoring. 

Dr. Soja, thanks for all your support. :D