This past week I continued my story writing teaching with a lesson on writers workshop. This lesson was formally observed, which always changes the dynamic of the classroom. I’m not sure why but having a stranger in the class watching me (a relative stranger) teach must be so strange of the students. Mostly they roll with it though.
I am attaching a copy of my lesson plan, for anyone who may be interested. LANGUAGE ARTS LESSON PLAN – JAN 28 – Annieville – Grade 7
There were several areas for improvement. The concept of showing not telling in writing deserves a whole lesson in itself. I was clearly teaching about the students heads. They really did need more examples from stories and a joint construction activity. This is something I can work on next time. Secondly, I should not have let students leave the room. When I was asked I was frazzled because I was still trying to assign groups. If I had paused I would have realized there is enough room in the classroom and they will do inside. It would have let me have more control of the situation.
Overall, the lesson went okay. I think the students were excited to share their stories and gave pretty good feedback to their peers. I am excited to read their revised drafts.
There are always small things to tweak when teaching and then time to reflect and do things differently next time which is what you have done.
I am sure it is a bit odd for the students to have someone sitting in the back writing notes and equally odd for you. It is not an optimal way of creating a relaxed environment but so far, in the time I have been doing this work, I have found that students and TC’s get used to it, even though it is not completely comfortable.