2021-My First Semester Teaching Storylines

    I enjoyed teaching storylines this semester.  I think my paraprofessionals enjoyed it as well.  We were all learning as a team.   My students and paraprofessionals liked that I was teaching science concepts using culturally relevant topics.  It made students aware of the science we use daily. I had moments when I felt as if was running around with my head cut off and I probably was. 

   Personally, I feel that this year is worst than last year.  Why? Students were thinking I was going to pass them without putting in the work.  I can't speak for other educators, only for myself.  You will not pass my class unless you put in the work.  I always students more than one opportunity and different ways to demonstrate mastery in my classes.  It's up to you to take advantage of the opportunities.

    I had to do more differentiating and scaffolding this semester.  If I gave them too much at one time they would shut down immediately.  So I had to figure out how prepare a rigorous lesson without being it overwhelming to my students. I rather have them engaged and learning.  I got dinged for it during my formal observations. I don't regret it.  In the end I complete my usual standards and two more that I never get cover in class.  That's a plus in my book. 

     Unfortunately, I burnt myself out in the process.  I was up until midnight every night for three months. Why?  My students this semester didn't have attention span for lecture.  I noticed they would pay attention to videos.  So, I used previously recorded screencasts (created for virtual learning during COVID) and created new ones using screencastify.  I chose screencastify because it has an option to add multiple choice questions to check for understanding.  I had to make my notes child friendly.  I ended up creating doodle notes to use with the videos. 

They worked out well.  

I decided to cut back on the homework. Maybe 2 or 3 times a week.  I guess I am old fashion.  How can you master chemistry concepts without practice?  I don't give 25 problems to work out.  I just assign 4 problems (1 of each type), Ck-12, McGraw Hill, or Actively Learn.    

Here are my major takeaways from this semester.

1.  I need to reorganized my student/interactive notebook. I have been looking at different teacher websites. I like this set up. Mychemistryclass

2.  Create a tracking system so I can keep up with my students borrowing supplies.

3.  I need a better grading system for grading my notebooks.

4.  I will not take work home unless it is necessary.  

5.  Continue to work on mastering the anchoring phenomenon routine.

6.  Work on giving student productive feedback. When I am tired of typing I will let technology assist me (Kami -has a screencast option).

7.  Focus more on student's assets and not their deficiencies.