Two of my learning goals on practicum plan were improving communication with my mentor teacher and including more technology into my lesson plans. I feel I have made great progress towards these goals. I communicate with my mentor teacher everday in regards to resources that can be used in the classroom, observations made of the classroom, reflection on lessons I have taught, and progress of assignments in the Benedum. The second part to improving communication with my mentor teacher was to have lessons prepared in advance for my mentor teacher to approve, and then have time to address and changes that may need to be made. So far I have not really had this chance. I have mostly taught from my mentor teacher's lessons plans. I usually have lesson plans from him by Friday for the following week. Over the weekend I usually look over the lesson plans and make changes if I wish to do so (I have approval from my mentor teacher to do this). The second learning goal I mentioned was to include more technology into my lesson plans other than power points. So far this semester students have used the library media center and computer lab to create commercials. Students have viewed videos, researched the internet for current events, and I have used power points from time to time. I have also used technology to produce review games for students when preparing to take a test such as jeapordy. My mentor teacher has also provided me with CD-roms that include activities, lesson plans, and notes to chapters found in the book. These CD-roms have been great resources when planning activities for the classroom.
As far as making changes the to practicum plan and activities listed, my mentor teacher and I have both been very flexible doe to snow days and two-hour delays as to when activities are completed. Some activities had to be shortened while others were just moved around. Overall, the practicum plan has helped my mentor teacher and I stay on task and complete assignments listed in the checklist.
The two learning goals you have included in your Practicum Plan are wonderful ideas that everyone could constantly be improving on. There can never be enough communication and collaboration between WVU Students and Mentor Teachers. This is what it takes for the success of our students as well as improvement for teachers and student teacher parts. Technology is an aspect of society that is constantly being updated. That is why it can also be improved at all times. I have been able to use a Mimeo Board for the first time this semester. It is a wonderful tool and a great way to engage the students in learning.
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