2 week practicum

I chose to do my two week practicum at my old high school in Ontario (Iroquois Ridge High School). I had the opportunity to observe several classes in different subject areas and teach several art classes from grades 9 through 12. To be honest, there weren't really any issues that arose for me; I was very impressed with the teachers I observed, the students I taught, and the overall community of the school.

One of the art/religions teachers I had a chance to observe really impressed me with how well he was able to connect with his students; he was a very funny and easy-going teacher whom the students absolutely adored. He took the time to really engage with each student and see where they were at in their projects. In the religions class, he gave each student the opportunity to present their project in whichever way they were best able to communicate their knowledge of the content (ie: they could write a paper, do a painting, write a song etc. -whatever they chose). This teacher truly cared about his students' learning and wanted to set them up for success- and I think what was critical about this, was that he made sure the students knew it- they KNEW he wanted them to do well in his class.

By having the students aware that he was there to support them, classroom management wasn't much of an issue. The respect he showed toward his students was clearly reciprocated; so, when he DID have to make reminders of noise level, listening, etc., there was a genuine compliance.

I think it can be difficult, as a teacher, to find the balance of being an authoritative figure so that the students respect you and listen, and being "fun and cool" so that they still enjoy your lessons and want to come to your classes; my practicum was a great opportunity for me to see this balance in action.