Menu
Blog
Being a caring adult is essential to creating a safe environment in the classroom. When students feel that they are cared for, they feel safe. When students feel safe, then they can learn. In my classroom, my students have been placed in many different countries, classrooms, and houses. They lack stability in their lives. When they enter my classroom, they know that they are safe. I have established rules and procedures in my classroom and I expect that the students will follow them. I hold each student accountable because I know that when the procedures and rules are followed, learning can take place. I want my students to be the best that they can be. I care about them and their futures.
0 Comments
What are some specific strategies you can use to make positive connections with your students?10/15/2016 I try to make positive connections with my students every day. Each morning, I tell my students good morning and ask them how their night was or how their morning has been. At this time, the students may share something from their night or morning. These responses range from getting a new toy, playing a new game, or having a bad night. All of my students are English Language Learners and I try to include their cultures and languages in each lesson. When I am teaching my students new vocabulary words, I also try to learn the word in their native language as well. My students are learning English and many lack confidence in the general education classroom. I try to help build their confidence. When my students respond to a question in English, I will show my excitement for them. I will high five them, smile at them, or have the class recite a cheer for them. When our class time is over, I will tell my students to have a great day.
Saying “no” to a student sets the expectation for the classroom. When a teacher tells a student “no” she must stay firm and consistent. The whole class will look for wiggle room and if any is given, the class will learn that your word is inconsistent. Children look for guidance and consistency in a classroom and if they know that your word is firm, it will strengthen their relationship with you. In my experiences, I have learned that by keeping a calm, but firm tone yields the best results with creating a trusting classroom. By saying “no” to my students I know that I am working as a responsive teacher as opposed to a reactive teacher.
Stress is a component of teaching because teachers want every child to be successful. As a teacher, it is important not to be overloaded with stress as the students will model the teacher’s actions. To combat the stress, I have experienced, I ask myself if I could fix or change the situation. By doing this, I realize what situations are in my level of control. As a way to escape the stresses of the day, I find the positives in my day and consult with my colleagues. At home, I take the time to reflect and think about possible improvements or solutions to my problems.
There are many important qualities for a teacher. Teachers should be flexible and willing to adjust their schedule as needed. A teacher should also be well planned and organized in order to be effective. As a curriculum changes, a teacher needs to stay knowledgeable on the new standards and the new teaching techniques. In addition, the teacher needs to stay informed about any new developments in technology. A teacher needs to keep a sense of humor and be caring, but firm. By keeping a fair and consistent classroom, the teacher will build a trusting relationship with her students. By having all of these characteristics and by building strong relationships, the students will rise to the expectations of the teacher.
|
|