Nov 24
I taught two Grade 9 classes. The first one went okay, but there were some things I fixed going into the second one. I was able to record some reflections immediately after the first lesson:
Add more introduction to who I am.
Take time to do the warmup game. I kind of rushed through it because I was worried we would run out of time for the lesson, which in the end we had a bit of time to spare.
Students were keen on the first level but became bored when we went on to the single lines of dialogue (post-reflection note, those students who weren’t paying attention maintained that throughout, so it may not have been solely the lesson. I need to take charge more regarding those students who keep talking). Reducing line time might help with that. Vary up the lesson with bringing back the board and reviewing elements (setting, plot, character).
I wonder if chairs would help it? Or sitting on the ground in the lines and during the example.
Don’t talk over students. I felt myself projecting a lot during that class, tiring out my voice a bit.
Tap-in game being the next step.
Explain the elements of Improv and the structure of the artform more and how to build a scene/what goes into a scene (ie setting, plot, character).
I was able to incorporate my SA’s notes as well, and after teaching the second class I reflected again:
WOW do chairs work better
I think that the name game and introducing myself first made the class easier as they knew more about me
I think I did one too many name game rounds, but it was okay
Time wise it was much better timed, but still went a bit over
Students were really engaged with the creation of the scenes
I felt like I waited longer than usual and it worked because they are used to Ms. An waiting, so they started to shush each other.
GET A WATCH haha
I walked around a lot more this time
The group really got into it, I really enjoyed the performances
It was really great to see the improvements and gain experience with just how structured those grade 9 classes have to be to be successful.
I also taught a Grade 10 Drama combined with a Film and Television 11/12 combined with the Life Skills Learners who had their teacher and four EAs with them. That was the one my FA came to watch. My reflection notes:
I asked too many questions at the end, but they did start answering them when I made the questions more specific. Which tells me that my reflection question was too broad.
Students loved the creation of the scenes
Were a bit blank stared at the end, but that was because I had to put them back into input mode after being in output mode for a big chunk
Take the time to clear the space of the chairs
Find something to spare my voice
When playing games, give students a heads up when the last round will be, they were kind of surprised when I ended Twizzle (warmup game)
I’m definitely going to take what I observed and what I experienced and apply it to my lesson plans for the long practicum. I thought it was really interesting to see a PE class and how they classroom manage in a space that has no desks either. Very entertaining seeing the kids (grade 9) “perform” for each other with one boy being the class clown. I was even able to join the teacher’s volleyball team for a lunch time match against the grade 12 boys… we got slaughtered ha! I’m going to have to brush up on my volleyball for the long practicum. And invest in some knee pads.
