Standard 8: Reflection and Continous growth
8.1 Adapts and improves practice based on reflection and new learning.
Formal Observations
During my methods and student teaching I had numerous observations and evaluations from my teachers, mentors, and even my principal. I was observed in all subject areas so that I could continuously reflect and improve my teaching pedegogy. After each observation I debriefed with the observer and my mentor. During these meeting we would meticulously go over my strengths and weaknesses, what I should continue to do and what I need to work on. In one observation from my mentor Kalani Eggington I received 3's (Inservice Emerging) and 4's (Inservice Effective) out of a 1-4 scale on the 10 State standards of preservice teachers. To see the complete review, click here.
Teacher work sample reflections
After I finished my Science Unit for my teacher work sample, I did a series of reflections that every teacher should when they work on a unit. These involve assessing my pre-test data, funds of knowledge, research in context of the school, my formative assessments and the steps I plan to take in the future. To read my in-depth reflections, click here.
Proffesional Development
During my Language Arts methods course the teacher we were able to participate in a workshop that taught us how to incorporate bookmaking into our classrooms. Making books is a great way to engage students in their learning while practicing fine motor skills, encouraging creative expression, and supporting literacy. In this workshop, I learned variations of three simple book forms the accordion, single sheet books, and the diamond fold book.
I also attended University of Utah's Arts Link Conference. This was a workshop to help all professional teachers integrate the arts in all subject matters. Here is the newsletter for the conference last year. We incorporated art, dance, music and theater into one unit surrounding culture and literature. I also wrote a reflection regarding the awesome experience.