There has been a few moments within this week that made me appreciate the teaching profession so much more! In this week I again learned that it's more than just about teaching content. At this stage I'm able to form relationships with young people that goes beyond Natural Sciences and Mathematical Literacy. Although I have a stance of pure professionalism, the children just find it easy to share things about their life's, their interests, dislikes and passions without me having to intrude.
My favourite moment of this week was when a grade 11 learner called me while the class is doing an activity and handed me 5 of his poems to read. He also whispered that no one has ever read his poems before as he doesn't share them. It felt super special that he could entrust me with reading his personal writings. I too do some writing of my own and I too don't share it with others therefore I could relate in many ways.
He is super talented and really creative. After reading his poetry I thanked him and told that maybe I too can build up the courage to share some of my writings with him.
The bitter part regarding this week is that the personnel is not a united front when it comes to certain aspects and the meetings before school starts brings such a heaviness that one's day starts off unpleasant. I realise that this is a group of different individuals therefore everyone has his/hers own opinion, but I believe there is a certain standard that should be maintained when disagreeing with a fellow colleague. I'm not involved in any of this and steer clear from any negativity. It is an eye opener and I think this journey is preparing me how to conduct myself in the working environment in the future.
For the first time this past week I got to teach the gr 12 learners. I felt apprehensive as I already formed a working relationship with the gr8's and gr11 and I wasn't sure how the lesson will go, but I was excited at the same time. The attitudes of some learners is disheartening, because some of them wouldn't bother to take out a pen or book to work with the class and as much as I try to engage, encourage and motivate them to participate, they simply don't care at all. I however had to realise that I cannot waste my energy on those that chooses not to participate, but my focus has to be on those that wants to work, that comes to school to learn. Despite their I don't care attitude I will continue to not lose hope and will continue to try and inspire them to reach their full potential.
On Friday I had my evaluation for Mathematical literacy. The planning went well and the learners worked well with me to have a successful lesson. The lecturer was pleased and he advised that me to involve learners by writing/doing sums on the board, which I have in other lesson, but this didn't take place in Friday's lesson. Nonetheless, it was a good lesson. There was no nerves, I was comfortable and well prepared. I look forward to see what this 5th week holds!
The 2 CPUT students had their last day of practical on Friday, I will now be the only student teacher at the school, it should be interesting!
 |
| I found this magnetic duster and kokies, which I think is super cool, at CNA! When I purchased this and transparencies I felt like a real teacher! |
Its good to get to know the learners, but dont you think them giving you their personal poems is a bit to intimate? I find having a healthy relatonship is talking in a group or one learner came up to me asking what she should study with her subjects. I try to keep my distance from getting too personal.
ReplyDeleteGlad your krit went well though. And well done on getting a gr12 class. My teachers are way to stressed out about them to give mea class.
Its good to get to know the learners, but dont you think them giving you their personal poems is a bit to intimate? I find having a healthy relatonship is talking in a group or one learner came up to me asking what she should study with her subjects. I try to keep my distance from getting too personal.
ReplyDeleteGlad your krit went well though. And well done on getting a gr12 class. My teachers are way to stressed out about them to give mea class.
Hey Amè
DeleteI view it as any other learner that shares their talent such as playing sports, unfortunately the school doesn't provide an opportunity for this learner to share his creative writing. I think it would've been discouraging to the learner if I simply said no, even if I explained that this is a boundry I do not want to cross. I hear what you're saying and I totally agree that we need to be professional at all times. I'm also reminded of 'loco parentis' we where have to act as a child's parent, so I think it was good for the learner to hear you good at writing as any other sport coach would tell a learner you did well to score that try/goal and maybe now he can share his poems with others.
You know what, I feel like you can become involved in their lives and become personal with them and even attatched to them but like with everything there has to be a line and I believe that you know the line and I think that the boy giving you his poems was more a displayal of trust and affection and I thought that the way you responded to him was beautiful. I have kids coming to me because they suss me out as someone they can talk to and I always try to help them and listen, because sometimes all they need is an ear, something many of them dont have at home. I can relate to you so much and urge you to not stop being that person they look up to and trust. We are human beings and to take on a cold, disinterested stance in life can do far more harm than good! like I said, knowing where, and guiding the learner where the line is is key! sorry for the long reply its just something that is so close to my heart. We are in a helping profession, a caring profession and we are teaching KIDS not a curriculum!:)
DeleteUlrich! I SO enjoy your writing because of how much i can relate to it, it's shocking! You sound like such a man of character and I hope you enjoy the last five weeks! I bought some stickers for the children's books when they do their home work well, and I felt like a real teacher then too just like you feel about your koki's! All the best, let it be beautiful!
ReplyDelete