I used many mentor texts to help students during reader's workshop.I used Because of Winn Dixieto teach important reading concepts, as well as writing concepts. I also had students read in their books and find examples of primary characters, secondary characters, conflicts, solutions, dialogue, and other reading elements. I conducted a DRA assessment on each student in the third grade classroom, and picked books for students to read based on their instructional reading level. Each student had their own collection of books at their desks that were "just right" for them.
everyday math
I used Everyday Math to teach my third grade students. Along with using the curriculum, I created centers involving hands-on activities to help develop deeper understanding. In order to help meet each student's individual needs, I met with groups of students after each unit test to address misconceptions, before moving on to the next unit. While I was meeting with the groups, other students were working on enrichment activities.
writer's workshop
I used Oakland Schools writing units to help guide my writing instruction. I also used mentor texts to teach students about quality authors, and to provide a model for the students. Many times I would integrate reading and writing into one lesson. It was fun to see the student's progress. I found that providing models for, and writing with the students really aiding in their writing success.
primary years programme (pyp)
I completed my student teaching at Conant Elementary School. Conant is a Primary Years Programme, or PYP school. I taught inquiry-based units in both science and social studies. I taught a Social Studies unit on Native American settlers, and a Science Unit on vertebrates. The PYP system included the IB Learner Profile. These consisted of attributes that good students should have. I liked to incorporate these attitudes into my teaching daily. I enjoyed teaching students how to be risk-takers, inquirers, and open-minded students.
classroom management
I used school-wide, classroom-wide, and individual behavior management systems. Our school wide positive behavior support (PBS) system used a coupon system. Students received "Caring Cobra" coupons if they were caught doing something good. I also used a coupon system within the classroom on an individual level. Individual students would earn coupons for good behavior or work and put the coupon in a star box. I would pick five coupons from the star box at the end of the week, and students would win a prize. My classroom-wide behavior management system consisted of the use of a point system. The class would earn five points for quality work or behavior. Once the class received 100 points, they would earn an extra recess. Another behavior management system I used during my long-term substitute job was a different point system. I had the class make up table names. Each table would earn a point for being the quietest, quickest, cleanest, etc. At the end of the week, the winning table would win a prize.