First Time Before Middle Years

Personal Reflection. First School Visit to Teach

Dear Mom,

Thank you so much for having guided all up to this point.

I am so proud with where I am, and I give all this credit to you and my past teachers.

This past Friday, I went to a middle school for the first time called "Eagle Mountain Middle School" in Coquitlam. I was in Grade7/8 class under Mrs. Jenn Moody. My experience there was absolutely amazing - as I already told you when I got home that evening.

Here are some of the pictures of classroom settings my colleague took:

Classroom Structure. You cannot see in these pictures, but there are big open windows on one wall and wooden beam supporting the structure on the ceiling. These elements create such earthy and welcoming vibe in the classroom. It does not look institutionalized nor restricted. It almost reminds me of the story of Plato's Cave. Being in the classroom and staring outside into the open almost echoes this voice in me that says, "go out, the world is so much more bigger. Do not sit here in the dark just wondering about the world but go. Go out and experience it yourself". What a liberating and inspiring vibe I am dwelling on just by being in this classroom setting.

Classroom Features. Also in the classroom, there are so many features that are set up to really support the students in their learning and community build up. Let me list them:

• Chalk Talk - a poster with sticky notes describing goals for this year

• Comfort Zone - to create a safe environment

• Group Desk - for collaboration and community

All these are aspects to the classroom that I really like - each feature has a intentional function to create an inclusive environment that promote intellectual and social-emotional well-being. Mom, I hope to set up my classroom similar to this some day. And I'll be sure to invite you in.

Now, let me share with you what the day looked like with the students.

Shape of the Day

1. Introduction to the Teacher Candidates + 2 Truths and a lie

2. Name Tags (grade, favourite season, favourite food, favourite hobby)

3. "Just like me"

4. Groups of

5. Milling to Music

6. Chalk Talk

7. Exit Slip

Burning Questions, What are we noticing about students? What are their observable strengths? What are their stretches?

Strengths. These are the activities we did with the students. Amazingly enough, these activities that seem to be "mundane and pointless" by some has helped our teacher candidate team tremendously. Each activity really brought out the colours of each student and showed the dynamic of class. For one thing, the students are very cooperative. Everyone was getting their feet wet in the activities. They shared fun facts about themselves, and they were open to talking in public and moving around in the space given. Second thing, the students have a strong sense of community with one another. When one student was at the center in "just like me", their peers willingly volunteered to switch so that everyone can have a chance to speak and participate. They were also very inclusive with one another, not leaving anyone out in discussion and grouping. The students are also highly sociable and talkative. They love to interact with each other and were open to share their own thoughts and ideas with confidence. While some students were definitely on the quiet side, they nevertheless reciprocated conversations and smiles.

Stretches. Because the students are just so sociable, it did take a bit of time for my colleagues to grab student attention. I almost feel that it is necessary for the teachers to have microphones so that they do not need to yell in order to come over the volume in the classroom. With all the chatters and energy in the room, it definitely takes a bit time for transition to take place, but I know this can be overcome with time and getting used to the class dynamic.

Here is a graphic organizer to summarize the strengths and stretches:

I think it is really neat that educators are taking their time to reflect on the strengths and stretches on the students because it allows them to meaningfully think about their students in a positive and constructive way. How often do educators burn out because they are overwhelmed with all the behaviours going on in the classroom? But to reframe student behaviour allows educators to see the strengths in what appeared to be a negative and find ways to channel that energy into a good. Also it initiates educators to plan strategies to better serve the students in both their strengths and stretches.

So far, everything seems cohesive (smooth) and coherent (makes sense overall).

So far, I am really enjoying my teaching opportunities.

So far, I am happy with where I am.

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• Schnellert, L., Widdess, N., & Watson, L. (2015). It’s all about thinking: Creating pathways for all learners in middle years. Winnipeg, Manitoba: Portage & Main Press. [Chapter 3]

• Butler, D. L., Schnellert, L., & Perry, N. E. (2016). Developing Self-Regulating Learners. Don Mills, ON: Pearson. [Chapter 5]