Day #10

I keenly observed Mrs. Kester this morning in her literacy lesson. She has added some new elements such as "Make A Word" phonics and the DOL. I am to start teaching most of the literacy part of the day so I enjoyed my observations. It's amazing how smooth and easy she makes teaching seem. Yet I stumble along when I do it. She observed me today in my word family lesson. We ran out of time to discuss her observations but I'm anxious to hear her comments. I know she will have some good insight in which ways I can improve.

The students are finally learning each others' names. Mrs. Kester has not implemented much of a community atmosphere. As much as I love Mrs. Kester, I know her class is lacking in this area. She doesn't celebrate their birthdays are allow time for personal interests. Yet I know she is bombarded with district timelines. How can I foster a community environment while meeting all the timelines?

Another item that surprised me was the allotted time for science and social studies; ten minutes for the both. Now I see why we were taught integration. Good grief!