In the past, I have used the phrase “A Brave New World” in reference to some element of my teaching experience, but if I could go back, retract that statement, and reapply it to this most recent experience, I would. Alas, it shall remain in the past and a must regurgitate the sentiment that after spending almost 8 months in a Grade 7 classroom, moving to a K-1 for the day was certainly “a brave new world”.
However, this world was certainly not a negative one, it was challenging yes, but a fun, exciting, and educational experience. It took me a little but at the beginning of the day to get my brain to switch over into “primary teacher mode” but once there, it was “relatively” smooth sailing.
To be blunt, Grade 7 to Kindergarten is a big jump. However, regardless of the grade level, good practice is still good practice. As we scaffold for our students of differing abilities, so can we with our methods for students of differing grades. Some specific skills that transferred well for me is my focus on building relationships with the students quickly. Engaging them in their interests and asking questions allows me to connect with them at the beginning of the day and then user the information to motivate and personalize their learning throughout the day based on their interests. Additionally, being able to outline expectation, even at such a young grade, was something that carried well with me into this new experience. Students need to know what is expected of them over the course of the next activity. The need to know what they should be doing, how they should be acting, what to do if they need help, and what to do when they are finished. This wasn’t new for the students and my colleague’s classroom was well set up for this. The students knew that once the expectations were down, they followed them well throughout each activity. This I feel is a testament to my colleague structure she has put in place throughout the year and that the students comprehend/respect the concept of expectations.
Overall, wonderful day, wonderful experience, and I am so thankful to have had the privilege to get to see teaching through a new lens. A brave new world? Yes. But an exciting one? You betcha!
I’m glad you were able to see connections between K and grade 7. In particular, the importance of relationship building. I appreciate that you recognized the potential to create a more personalized learning environment through the connections you make on a day to day basis. Having seen you close to the beginning of your day, I recognized the nerves you allude to above. I had no doubt, however, that the nerves would shift into a positive energy carried throughout the day and was glad to hear this confirmed (in both your reflections and those of your advisor for a day!). I would happily have a child in your K or grade 7 class Graham!