Friday, March 5, 2010

Hello again,

Now that I have visited my service learning school three times, I am happy to report what I have experienced thus far. First of all, I must say my few nerves leading up to my first day were severely intensified once I walked around the building and was confronted with endless locked gray doors, all of which offered no handles to the outside world. After refocusing my attention to positive thoughts, I realized this was for the safety of all the little darlings I was about to meet. Also, murals that line the brick walls allowed my imagination to drift off into times where the children in these drawings were playing or laughing and enjoying their community.


As I rounded a corner and found the appropriate door, I pushed the button and recited the recommended line which almost immediately led to a welcoming buzzing noise I was desperately waiting to hear. Immediately, it was easy to see a child friendly atmosphere that was busy with daily activities. I was then welcomed by office staff and shown the binder where I would record my visits from now on. With the first instructions I was given, I headed to an assembly and then was able to help the teacher with fluency exams.Though my actual time with the fourth graders was limited, I knew there would be plenty to come.


This third visit has finally allowed a permanent arrangement to both a classroom and three fourth graders. I am now a participating member of room 209-grade four!! As I entered the room, I thought the classroom appeared large, yet very cluttered. Directly ahead of the door is the student teachers desk which faces the bulletin board and children. To the left of the door, sits the teachers desk centered at the front of the room. Smaller desks face the front in three rows and face each other on either side of the middle rows making a square with desks inside. Multiple closets holding the children's many belongings line the full length of the side wall. In the back of the classroom, a table with eight chairs serves as a reading and comprehension center that the student teacher mainly uses. Another table and chairs allow another group to form if needed. The setup of this classroom makes the teacher and the blackboard main focus points while all other objects mentioned are off to the sides. The children can all see the board because of the creative placement of their seats and can have contact with other students as well as separation from those who aren't as friendly with one another.


My service learning placement seems to be a very chaotic environment considering there are many children in an overall small setting. It is also lively and exciting. Children are always running through the halls or laughing with one another. The days seem packed and the teachers mean business, but are continually very caring and attentive. The school as a whole clearly values diversity and acceptance which is proven in the mission statement and teacher's approach to the class.


A point which I find hard to ignore is the level of hormones and rebellion present in this classroom and throughout the school. Though they are all young and eager to test boundaries, I have noticed quite a bit of yelling and repeating of directions. There are also different groups or categories which the children fall into that can be easily observed. I look forward to getting to know the class as a whole as well as the three children I have just begun working with. The teachers and students seem welcoming and enthusiastic about my presence which will hopefully continue to develop.

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2 Comments:

Blogger Gerri August said...

Hi Brianna,

You write beautifully about your first impressions. You mention that the school and classroom value diversity and acceptance. You cite the mission statement and "the teacher's approach" as evidence. What is it about the teacher's approach that tells you that acceptance is valued?

Keep me posted,
Dr. August

May 3, 2010 at 10:19 AM  
Blogger Brianna said...

I feel that the teacher approaches every situation based on the severity as well as the children involved. Though she repeatedly shows how well she knows all of them, she also takes into account that there has to be equality. She seems to understand that picking her battles is important. Sometimes I see her give a certain look which sort of sends the message "how about you don't do that again!" The children also have learned what she likes or disapproves of.

I have also seen the teacher pay close attention to teasing or name calling. Whether the boys are teasing the girls or there are "puppy love" issues (which she says is common at this time of year for fourth graders)the teacher always addresses the issue and reiterates that her classroom is safe and accepts everyone.

Recently I was able to talk to the teacher about my career plans as well as converse with her about her educational and occupational background. She generously offerred her email and invited me back as often as I choose. I asked her if for this week (since it is my last visit)it would be possible to either plan a lesson for the class or at least connect more with the three girls I work with by using the material they are learning. To my surprise she suggested I plan something for the girls for this week and if I want, for the entire class next week!! This has thrilled me and I have been reviewing their current subjects in order to better serve the students. This teacher has been extremely helpful to both her students, and aspiring teachers. =)

May 3, 2010 at 6:30 PM  

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