My management does not come from an educational theory or philosophy; it comes from a personal philosophy that is known for the most part worldwide. This theory is called, the golden rule, the center of classroom management to me is respect and work ethic. The role of the student in my classroom is to put forth effort. I write in all the directions on all instructions and worksheets that the only wrong answer is one not given. I tell them on their first day of class that the only two rules I have are to be nice and work hard. These are their responsibilities just as their education is their job. I think my role as a teacher is to be the enforcer of rules, the role model or guide through the class and the safe haven for students that need this. As the teacher I am also responsible for leveling the playing field so every student is receiving the same content on a level that challenges them enough to make them strive for better. While there are not very specific rules in the classroom there are broad ones that encompass respect and rapport in the classroom towards other students, teachers or staff and one’s self in the class. This respect and rapport will be maintained by establishing routine and structure throughout the classroom. I build rapport with students through getting to know them; I am a very observant person naturally and I take to students that seem like they need extra support. I build personal connections and they grow to trust me. I also think the way towards rapport with students is to have high expectations for all students and increase the rigor while holding everyone to high standards and provide individual support for any student that needs assistance meeting those standards or that needs to be challenged more. Making accommodations to differentiate for a better learning experience for each student is a big person goal.
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As for establishing the routine and structure, I hope to instill the task or routine of warm up activities. I think warm-up activities are great to help students get into the mindset of the class and moves their thinking from possible drama in the halls to class time. I would like to have a table or counter space called a student center where students will find all supplies needed for my class that day. As they walk in they take supplies and as they walk out they turn in supplies and work. As a family and consumer science teacher I want to try to do the nutrition and cooking units last in the class. I think this is important because other subjects like finances, sewing and textiles, interior design, and comprehensive skills like advertising, communication, and relationships are important. I feel like if I do these subjects first then the cooking unit is more of an award for getting through the bulk of the class.
In family and consumer sciences there are many group occasions and for many topics groups are ideal. So for the first day of class students will get placed in random groups. After getting to know the class students will be grouped based on ability, social group, participation, behaviors and accommodation needs. This will be important so that I know where to focus my movement and help throughout the room when I am wandering during class. I think being aware of where each student stands and putting them with the students that can help them stand taller is important for growth in the class. |