When September started, I knew that I had a challenging road ahead of me.  Plenty of coursework to prepare us for this big performance.  Nothing can ever really prepare you to perform as a teacher though.  Despite the tremendous amount of readings and assignments, nothing could prepare me for the mental toughness I needed to go teach.  Resilience and patience is what I had to get through the busy semester before and I needed it here.

I met some of my fellow teacher candidates and we shared stories about our fears, lesson plans, and extra curriculars we wanted to participate in.  I was happy we were there to support each other.

The first block I went to see my SA.  She was teaching the students how to make pinatas.  They were beautiful and I was very impressed.  I would soon be taking over this class and working with these wonderful children.  There were many familiar faces.  I got a chance to speak to my SA about my lessons and received positive feedback.  I was going to try inquiry in the classroom and will attempt this by giving them concept worksheets.  I’m a bit weary as to how they will react to the idea of “researching” for their ideas, but I believe this is a smart group.  I am hopeful that my lessons will be a success.  I am especially excited about the social justice comic that I will be introducing to one of the classes.  Promoting social justice has always been a passion of mine.

I was lucky enough to be given a demo on how to use the photocopier and booking library sessions.  I booked my class in for a research day in the library to explore their social justice topic further.  I also had the chance to visit the Special Needs teacher.  I expressed my interest in helping out with this group of students and she was very receptive.

Despite my fears of starting practicum, it started off on the right track.  I had plenty of support from my SA, student teachers, and I hope, the students.