When I was teacher-assisting this past winter, I was able to see how my CT used a blog. She had the link to her blog saved at the computers when we went to computers and the students first went to the blog. From there were links for XtraMath and a typing game so the students could practice math facts and typing. Additionally she gave the parents the blog link and she updated it once in a while.
While I like the idea of what my CT used her blog for I would like to do more with one. I can see there being step by step videos of how do solve a problem (kind of like a flipped classroom). I would also like to add student achievements on the blog. This way the students can see what good traits I see in them and show it to their family and friends. Basically I see it as a way to develop a positive classroom environment.
Students
The most important thing about teaching has to be the students in which we serve. Each student in the classroom has her own set of important information that the teacher must investigate throughout the school year. Let me paint a picture for you of the students in which I foresee myself working with in the near future.
Meet Jasmine. She is a first grader this year. Jasmine's parents are originally from Spain and Jasmine is a first generation English speaker. Her parents enrolled Jasmine in an English immersion program while in Spain and has recently transferred for better job opportunities. Learning English is of top priority for Jasmine and her parents.
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Jasmine's interests include dance, music and art. Because Jasmine is a English Language Learner (ELL) she prefers to express herself through art rather than academia. Jasmine is an apprehensive reader because of her moderate use of English. Spanish-text books have proven to be less challenging for Jasmine but are still difficult. Her desire to read is encouraging and is telling of the success I see for Jasmine's future.
Demographics
Like Jasmine, many of the students at Ace Elementary School are English Language Learners (EEL). The school has few resources for ELL in their language program. However, the program is slowly developing into a strong tool that has had success with many ELLs.
With that being said, there is also a large population of students who have English as their first language. Approximately 70% of the students speak English as their first language. Another 20% are adequate in English and their first language, and the remaining 10% are ELLs.
The staff is greatly lacking in bilingual teachers. Among us we have merely 6/35 teachers, staff and faculty that speak a second language.
The teachers and students use what resources they have to develop the most engaging learning environment they can. The students possess a diverse range of abilities and interests. Many of the students read in their first language proficiently, however, a large number of first generation students are lacking in letter sound recognition because of their lack of English development. Many of the students are gifted in the arts, especially music. Ace Elementary has a state wide known music program where students have been able to perform at sporting events and in critically acclaimed halls.
Math skills are typically at grade level, and standardized test scores have generally improved every year. Many teachers attribute their success in math to the music program and music teacher Mr. Note.
With that being said, there is also a large population of students who have English as their first language. Approximately 70% of the students speak English as their first language. Another 20% are adequate in English and their first language, and the remaining 10% are ELLs.
The staff is greatly lacking in bilingual teachers. Among us we have merely 6/35 teachers, staff and faculty that speak a second language.
The teachers and students use what resources they have to develop the most engaging learning environment they can. The students possess a diverse range of abilities and interests. Many of the students read in their first language proficiently, however, a large number of first generation students are lacking in letter sound recognition because of their lack of English development. Many of the students are gifted in the arts, especially music. Ace Elementary has a state wide known music program where students have been able to perform at sporting events and in critically acclaimed halls.
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Math skills are typically at grade level, and standardized test scores have generally improved every year. Many teachers attribute their success in math to the music program and music teacher Mr. Note.
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