How can a new teacher improve herself?

Question

I have just graduated from the university, got myself a job in a small school that conducts enrichment classes for small and big kids. Since I've been teaching one-to-one/small groups part-time privately for some 3 years, I thought I won't struggle so much. However, I realised that I am really quite a green horn in classroom teaching. It is different when you have to catch the attention of all 10 students in a class...I am worrying quite a lot now because classes are going to start in a week or so. Can I hear from some helpful souls regarding improvement of delivery skills in a classroom environment? Any tips for new teachers like myself?

Answer 1

OK ..been there, done that!!!

I know that right now it may look scary but when you are going to face the class..it'll all fade away!!!
Just don't be too soft..nor too agressive...children like to feel comfortable around the teachers..if you show them that you can be their friend as well as teacher...then they are all yours.
I teach a class of at least 15 children every day couple of times a day and i enjoy it every sec of it....

There's time for everything, for learning and for fun..and since you've been tecahing so far, eventough only individual classes you don't need to be so nervous...you know children sense this!
You'll find that classroom teaching is much more awarding..you'll enjoy trust me!

Answer 2

Just live and learn, my best advice to you and I do have experience while living in an urban area i had 32 students in my 5th grade class and I had students who couldnt even read or write. I would say for your sake. Number one rule, classroom management, set the rules and let the students be part of making the rules. Two always have fun lessons kids get bored you will find your days going much faster. praise the students they really do love that and they will want 2 please you. Reward system and let them have a snack, a morning meeting is wonderful 10- 20 minutes of your time will set the day and get the kids prepared for the day!!! If you get frustrated take a deep breath and start over!!!! It works. If you want more advice to more specific questions u can email me. I have had some experiences in teaching I will never forget. I have taught in private, urban, suburban, and native american schools.

Answer 3

dont be too hard on yourself, or the children, allow a degree of talk and play in the classroom

learn the names of the children, and develop rapport with them through planning really great activities that they enjoy

ask them what they are interested in and plan for their learning with them so they have a say in how the curriculum meets the outcomes you want

use some of your "best lessons" on the first day

be 100% firm and unyeilding with the students about discipline
have a three strikes and you are out policy

but be generous with praise, when authentic

use your voice effectively, speak loudly when needed and clearly, do not use slang

when talking with the class speak quietly so they have to listen
if you always speak quietly with the children you will have a quiet classroom <--***
if you always speak loudly with the children you will have a loud classroom.
use body langugage that is engaging

keep control of noise levels, but allow some discussion


ask the question without directing it so that the whole class are engaged in thinking about it
then mention a student by name to answer it

have games in place that you can use for spare time and that will aid in learning skills-(ie maths skills)

have "rituals" like touching a body part, ie nose, shoulder, and the class has to follow in silence

always require that all students have to pay attention when you are talking, wait for them if they dont

use proximity to a desk if they dont quieten down
talk to them if you need to, but ask them questions and state how you feel clearly, dont accuse or let them become oppositional through taking a particular stance yourself

hope this helps, attend professional development days, talk to other staff
you will be absolutely fine

Answer 4

just realize that you will make mistakes and then don't dwell on them.. I beat myself up a lot during my first few years of teaching because I wanted to be a great teacher, but eventually I just had to come to terms with the fact that I'm not perfect.. there's no substitute for experience and some things can't be taught in a textbook.. I feel like I've gradually getting better though..

Answer 5

Enlist the help and guidance of experienced classroom facilitators. Observe other teachers in their classrooms. Continue to attend workshops for professional development. I also strongly recommend that you look into accelerated learning. Best of luck to you!

Answer 6

Don't worry too much about it--everyone feels nervous before teaching the first time. Talk to more experienced teachers, who have been there for a while, to get their feedback as well.