LIFE OF A TEACHER

How did I cope completing the three days?

I managed to cope with completing the 3 days as I did not think too much of it, I rather thought of it as an opportunity to learn and grow. I also had great support from my mentor teacher as she assured me that if I have any concerns or questions I must feel free to ask.

I also managed to complete this as I was given a list of tasks to complete which guided me in what I need to get done with the class.

I also knew the class routines such as break time, class schedules and home time, therefore I was confident in taking over the class.

How did I feel taking the responsibility of the teacher?

At first, I felt that I didn't want to get in the way of the teacher however, my mentor teacher is incredibly understanding of the tasks I am required to complete. I have had 4 years of experience in my teaching journey, so I had the confidence to take over the classroom and complete all the duties of the teacher. I was confident in my ability to successfully complete these 3 days of being the "teacher". I really enjoyed being able to take control and really allow myself the opportunity to be the teacher of the 3 days. This was great experience for me, as I got a taste of what it truly is like being the teacher of the classroom.

What activities did I find challenging? How did I overcome them?

I found trying to discipline the learners the most challenging. When you are a student teacher, the learners tend to take chances and push boundaries. They are used to their own teachers way of discipline and do not necessarily take your ways serious. This is challenging as getting tasks done take a lot of discipline and time. I had to really put my foot down and set clear rules as to what my expectations are of them and what the consequences are if they did not listen and behave accordingly. My classroom management tool really worked well because when they didn't behave, I would refer back to the tool and they would be reminded that I am watching their behaviour.

Would I rate myself higher on the self-evaluation test? Justify how I have improved.

I would not necessarily rate myself higher. When I completed the test, I had full confidence within myself to complete these tasks. The one aspect that I have improved on is the knowledge I have gained in assessment. I have been able to see how assessment works, how it is recored and how reports are made. This is beneficial for my future career as a teacher as I have had first hand experience how this process is completed.

Feedback from my mentor teacher and comparison to my self-evaluation.

The feedback I got from my teacher is really positive. Just as much faith as I had in my capabilities, so did she. This really boosted my confidence in becoming a teacher and pursuing my career in this degree.