8.24.2011

Year Three, Week One

So I didn't post all summer and I also didn't read any posts. I never thought I would be one of *those* teachers. But life happens. I spent the first month of summer in grad school which I wanted to post more about but didn't. So far, I'm not super impressed with grad school. I've taken three classes and not learned a whole whole lot but we did learn a lot about observation techniques, clinical supervision, and Flanders. I may post on that more in the future but don't hold your breath. I spent the next month of summer moving back into our house after the flood and FEMA and remodeling.

Anyway, I'm teaching Algebra II for the first time this year so I'm really just posting so I can share my first lesson. I spent the last few weeks of summer creating really solid pacing guides that I felt put me off to a positive start. I feel confident that I know what my kids need and I've paced it out to be able to give it to them. So yay for me.

But I'm also teaching Algebra I, Geometry, Geometry lab, Test Prep, and an advisory period. So last night when it took me two hours to create a lesson for Algebra II and it was 10:!6 before I even started for Algebra I and Geometry, I knew it was going to be a long year.

I was tired and cranky today and in tears by fourth hour. Exciting, I know. And I don't mean misty-eyed, I mean full on stuttering through my tears, red nose, voice cracking.

I'm killing myself to create bell ringers, notes, and homework every day for at least three classes. How do you use the textbook to teach? My teacher bestie thinks I am hurting the kids and that I need to put responsibility on them. I think that I am redesigning what the book does in a way that is scaffolded for students to do on their own and hopefully be better thinkers. I don't know if I'm doing harm or good.

But enough complaining before we all get a little misty-eyed.

So here's some goodies that hopefully someone else can enjoy!

Solving Linear Inequalities with Absolute Value, Homework

Foundations of Geometry PPT, Notes

Draw and Label Basic Geometry Terms



8.08.2011

Teacher Preparation

I have been getting some information and participating in surveys for NCTQ, the National Council on Teacher Quality. They are trying to get information about teacher education programs which is something I know is near and dear to all of our hearts. I really was unsatisfied with my teacher education program so this is something kind of personal for me as well.

Anyway, they've put together a survey and are asking for teacher responses. You will be entered to win a $25 Amazon card, which they award 2 of a day. The survey took me about 10 minutes so I think it was well worth it.

So here is the link. Now go get yourself $25!