First week of full-time

I have made it through my first week of full-time teaching without losing my mind! I think that is considered success. I am now teaching 5 classes of 9^th graders. I have 2 English 9 classes and 3 English 9 Honors classes. So far, it has been hectic; however, it has been a great learning experience. I’ve gotten to know most of the students’ names and I’m becoming familiar with their skills. Thus far, I’ve had students complete tests, quizzes, writing assignments, artistic assignments, and a research project. This has been mostly with the English 9 classes because this week is the first week that I’ve taught English 9 Honors.

My action research is in full swing and I’ve already completed 2 out of my 4 vocabulary strategies. I’ve come across some new ideas along the way and have decided to also focus on review within my vocabulary strategy. With the first set of 4 strategies, students will be able to review before the quiz. When the second set of strategies rolls around, students will not be using review before their quiz. I have noticed that students really liked working with flash cards and they really did study together when I asked them to. I noticed a change in their behavior during this strategy and I hope to see even more. I am interested to see what happens with the study!

Within my first week of full-time teaching, I’ve started to feel like the teacher inside of me has come out. My mentor teacher tells me that I’m a natural and I’m so excited that she feels that way! I feel like I have pretty good control of the classes and I’m working on the content that I need to deliver. At this point, I feel that my skills are improving and I’m hoping that they continue to! I am excited for the rest of the year!