"Now that you are nearing the end of your first quarter of your internship, what has been your biggest surprise about being in the classroom and working with students?"
The year is speeding by. It's already the time of year when turkeys are gobbling, rain is falling, and snow might be covering. Reflecting on my internship thus far, I have had a lot of surprises. My biggest surprise you ask? - Easy. Fourth grade is amazing!!
Although a simple statement, there much is packed into this enthusiasm. Prior to my internship, most of my teaching experience had taken place in a primary classroom. I have always known that I love working with grades k-3. When I found out my placement, I was both excited and nervous to be spreading my wings in a 4th grade classroom. On top of this excitement and the normal nerves, I was extremely anxious - what could I possibly have to teach fourth grade? Lots!
I knew that I would be challenged in this classroom, but I never suspected that I would become so passionate about fourth grade. Our students are excited to learn, enthusiastic, responsible, capable, motivated, and still young. Here I was worried that fourth grade would be drastically different than primary grades, and certainly there are some major contrasts. However, on the whole, the content is still the same, only the level of sophistication is increased. While still focusing on narrative elements in stories, we can also take the time to delve into books wrestling with persistent social issues. Without hesitation, I can firmly state that fourth grade IS awesome!
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2 comments:
Well said Alyssa! You show us how to turn nerves into confidence through observation with an attitude that says "I can do this!" This is just the recharge perspective I needed. I often feel anxious about transforming my adult thinking into kid friendly and accessible language without washing away the big concepts for my first graders. You seem to have found confidence by taking cues from your fourth graders and applying your experience to meet their learning needs. Thanks for your insight!
Hey Alyssa!
I think it's wonderful that you feel so confident in a fourth grade classroom even though you've never had any experience with older grades! I would definitely feel the same way if I were placed in a primary classroom, as I've had most of my experience in upper grades. I think it's great that you've approached this experience with excitement (even though you were a little nervous...) and a positive attitude. Your students probably feed of your great energy! :)
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