I am entering the k-12 arena as a first year teacher in this setting. I have several years teaching experience within the community, ministry, post secondary and AF settings. I have many years experience working with youth from coaching basketball to different mentoring ops. What advice do you have for a first year middle school science teacher? I have so many interests as I transition into this setting. I am a huge fan of cultural pedagogy (I use a cultural and individual androgogical approach with my adult learners). Do you have any advise regarding middle school science curriculum? Thanks guys for you help!
Congratulations on your transition!!! I teach 8th grade ELA. I started as a co-teacher in 6th and 7th but now that I teach 8th I love Them! My advice is to build authentic relationships with your students. It’s easy to come in and say “don’t do this, this is my room” but I truly believe if you build a relationship students will do anything you ask them to do. Get to know your students and parents. I would Also suggest following teachers on ig and Twitter. Go to professional development. Reach out to the teacher community. Make sure that you communicate with parents as well. Middle is tough at times but you can do it. Follow me on Twitter @Mrsoliteracy email Jasmine893110@gmail.com if you have any other questions. If I don’t have the answer I‘ll do my best to connect you with someone who does.
Thanks Jasmine! I appreciate the words, support, and encouragement. I am a big believer in developing relationships with the learners. Thay definitely got me through while coaching jv girls basketball and teaching airmen as well as youth in the community. I am so excited! I love this age group! I anticipate some struggle but I am sold out! I am actively engaged in the teaching community of Twitter... gotta follow folks on IG though. Thx so much!
Congratulations Mechele! This is a huge accomplishment and Middle school is the time of smelling myself and finding out more about myself. I commend anyone who can teach middle school. I think that whatever you base your teachings on, you will succeed. The advice I would give is to make sure you build a great relationship with not only the kings and queens you will be teaching, but also their parents. This helps them become more involved in what their children are learning. Also, be prepared for constant feedback, don't take it too personal, it is just to help you become a MASTERFUL teacher. I plan to make a teaching page for my class next year. When I do I will post about it on here. Again, congrats!!!
Nikeeta,
Thank you for your encouraging reply. Include the parents in relation hip building... got it! This is right up my alley! I feel pretty strong about my relationship developing skills. I definitely know t at I will need to be comfy with not wearing my emotions on my sleev. It is hard going from being the resident expert to being the newbie but I habe done it so much in the Air Force that it seems to be hetting easier.
Where would you stsrt a class page? Twitter? FB? IG? Sounds interesting.
Pick one day a week to get to work early or stay late. Do not do either more than twice a week. No matter how much you work on your personal time, you’ll still have more work to do. Your job is never done. So don‘t give up too much of you’re own time. You‘re first year will be your weakest year but don’t worry, you will get better. Good luck!
Thanks Melissa,
Yikes! I am concerned about all the extra time spent at school. I am already trying to figure out a good work schedule. I would like to offer after ir before school tutoring once a week for at least 330 minutes. And then have an early or late day for my own work. Thanks for your tips andcsupport!