Teaching in a Diverse Classroom Setting

Some of the most exciting, and rewarding opportunities I had in my class was working along side of my students. They all possessed such unique talents and abilities. My classes were varied as I taught International students, on exchange bravely making new friends and learning more about our language and culture.

One  International student from China, arrived midterm in the Textiles 11 class.   I took  extra time to assess her prior knowledge, get to know her and to introduce her to the class. V.  was so brave, as she stood up and introduced herself to the class. I consulted with my sponsor teacher for the best way to introduce her to sewing as she had never done it before. In the end she produced a fabulous pair of boxer shorts, a handbag with her own design details and a blouse. She had a flair for design! Students in the class were given the opportunity to do a short fashion show where they introduced the bag they had made as they walked the runway. V– took this all in stride, a little self-conscious about her language skills at first, however she rose to the occasion giving her introduction and showing off her creation.

We also worked together on part of the Global unit display where I had the chance to get to know more about her homeland, her plans while in Canada and her interests. Here is the display students helped created for their Recycled Handbags


As I reflect back on my teaching experience to date, I realize:

My students taught me as much as I taught them! Yes, this, and so much more, is why I love my chosen vocation!

FOODS 12 SOUTH EAST ASIAN UNIT

"What are we making today, Miss Q?" Vietnamese Salad Rolls, A healthy snack!

FOODS 12 SOUTH EAST ASIAN UNIT:

Artifact for unit: Fear Factor Food Sampling

Acting as Global Food Critics students will explore the tastes of South East Asia and enhance their critical thinking skills in recognizing Authentic cuisine. We shall explore a variety of cultrual traditions, as well as the connection to the Lower Mainland and, local availability of foods by exploring Chinatown as part of a fieldtrip. Brave students may try new flavours in a lesson dubbed Feaf Factor Food Sampling. Please see more….

Contributions to the Profession

Please see accompanying ARTIFACT from the VSB Pro-D day where I did a workshop for Home Economics teachers:

VSB Pro-D Presentation:Garden as Classroom

I have always been curious about the world and hope to continue my quest for learning along side the sharing of that knowledge. Part of being a teacher is being a part of a greater school community.

While doing some Volunteer work at Eric Hamber Secondary, I had  the opportunity to do a workshop for the 2009 VSB Pro-D day. It was an honour to be able to meet future colleagues and to learn more about Home Economics teaching. I see opportunity to combine school ground gardens with home economics and to expand classrooms beyond the  box of the classroom and to integrate some teaching outdoors.

After the workshop, teachers came away with ways to implement a school garden program. A few were very inspired and wanted more information on how to make an outdoor classroom a reality.

In addition, I have been active advocating for hand-on learning and see the value of inter-generations learning developed by UBC Farms, Terra Nova and KidSafe programs. I was proud to share my  knowledge at the IOP Conference in Education, May 2010.

To expand my own growth and to continue to examine the important role Home Economics,  I have submitted a proposal for a Conference in London, March 2011, on Shape Shifting: Stewarding Home in the Digital Age. The classroom module will have students look at their home domain and their role as domestic artists. I am excited about the results and hope to be able to follow up with my colleagues.



Video Artifact: Teaching Techniques

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This video artifact was done in the first month, prior to my short practicum in our EDCU 316, communications class. It is challenging to watch myself on video and see my mannerisms. I also see the benefit of documenting my instruction, and hope to use this example to see how I have grown. I have gr0wn, knowing  my presentation skills, clarity of instruction and confidence will benefit my students.

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