I tried to use technology in my lesson the other day. I found a really neat applet that demonstrated the use of the mean value theorem in calculus. It allows the user to write equations and analyze the derivatives at the endpoints and various points in between. I even found a lab that explored various equations using the applet. I signed up for the computer lab and took my students there, excited to integrate the internet into our studies. When we signed onto the computers, we went to the website. The applet didn't work because the computers don't allow Java. What a disappointment. What really bothers me is that the district thinks that Java is used for games...it's used for a lot of educational games, too! Very valuable stuff that I can't use in my class.

What else has been going on? The most helpful PD so far has been the monday morning meetings - I always leave these with lots of new ideas about how to improve me teaching. The other day we worked on differentiation and I have had several lessons since then that have given students options based on readiness. I still need to work on interest level and learning style, but am well on my way to doing this. I can't believe that trimester is almost over!!!!

Reflections on Classroom Mangement

Last month, we talked about classroom management - it came a few weeks too late!!! One of my classes has been quite a handful, and I definitely learned some techniques to keep the learning going and the goofing off to a healthy level. This class just has so much energy! It seems like I am always fighting them for attention. So I've been trying to give them the attention that they need by passing the torch as often as possible. I like to get them working in groups - they are more accountable for their work this way, and tend to focus more. I have also been collecting a ton of their work, which helps to keep them on task. The video we watched helped a lot, and I actually have been employing one of his tactics: when a student is confronting you, you don't have to give an answer right away. This method works wonders! I am excited to see where the rest of the trimester takes me.

Whew! What a day. Today was THE FIRST DAY. That is in capital letters because not only was it the first day of school, but it was my first day of teaching as an official teacher. Today was exhausting, but it was a great start to the year! (save 5th period). I taught my fifth hour a Kagan Structure, which ended up being an expedition in itself, but they seemed to enjoy it. I even heard some math being talked about. Above are some pictures of the setup of my room. Overall, I am happy with it! I wish I had more "inspiring posters," but I guess these will have to accumulate over time. Some highlights from the first day:

AP Calc - These students are awesome! They all worked diligently on their review packets and I had a successful lecture about ln and log.
Algebra II - My two classes are polar opposites! First hour is half asleep, while fifth hour is bouncing about. Definitely have to work on some classroom management here! But ALL fabulous kids. I love teaching!!!

Orientation/PD

I am always amazed at how many useful ideas I pick up through reading text, watching videos, and just discussing classroom management strategies with other teachers and experts in the field. Over the course of the past two days, I have learned a ton! It is difficult to remember all of the strategies that I hope to implement in my classroom. Here are a few of the most important ideas:

1.) Classroom management is just as much about prevention as it is about intervention.
2.) Setting up procedures is a key part of classroom management. Procedures can actually boost student confidence if they are straightforward and clearly communicated.
3.) It is not always necessary to explain "why" to students when you say no. Instead, delay an explanation and the issue will often solve itself.

While I am a little nervous about the first week of school, I am confident that my bag of tricks is growing fast. There is no need to reinvent the wheel - it is merely a matter of finding the resources that offer the best practices in classroom management.

The New School Year

The new year awaits! I am so excited to get into the classroom and start teaching.