Teaching Log Reflection

During my Teaching Experience this year, I completed three full days in the ‘Life of a Teacher,’ where I assumed all the responsibilities of the class teacher. The first day was particularly challenging; I struggled to maintain enthusiasm and energy throughout the lessons. The exhaustion I felt was compounded by my unfamiliarity with the teachers' routines, systems, schedules, and duties, as well as the high school environment. Since my Grade 7 learners are situated on the high school campus instead of the primary school campus, I found it overwhelming to navigate the new dynamics and expectations. Unfortunately, I struggled to receive adequate support from my mentor teacher during this time, which added to my feelings of being overwhelmed.

However, I recognized that I needed to find ways to cope and manage effectively. To address the challenges I faced, I made a conscious effort to reflect on my experiences at the end of each day. I identified areas where I needed improvement and sought to implement strategies to adapt better. For example, I focused on creating a more engaging atmosphere in my lessons, incorporating interactive elements to capture my students' interest and, in turn, rekindle my enthusiasm for teaching.

As I progressed into Block 2, I found it significantly easier to take on all the responsibilities of a teacher. My growing familiarity with the daily schedules, routines, and duties of the teachers provided me with a clearer framework to operate within. I had also developed greater confidence in my abilities as a professional. By this time, I had adjusted to the high school environment and collaborated effectively with FET phase teachers, ensuring I could cope with Grade 8 to 12 lessons. This collaboration not only enhanced my teaching practice but also provided me with a support network that I had previously lacked.

Overall, by the end of my three days, I had learned to adapt to the challenges and embrace the complexities of teaching in a high school setting. While the first day was tough, I used it as a learning opportunity, which ultimately contributed to my growth and readiness for future teaching experiences.

During my Teaching Experience, I encountered several challenging activities, particularly during Block 1. One of the most significant difficulties was teaching the same lesson multiple times throughout the day. While repetition can be beneficial for reinforcing concepts, I found it challenging to maintain my enthusiasm and energy levels, which are crucial for engaging students effectively. Teaching both Grade 7 and high school learners added another layer of complexity. I had to adapt my lessons to meet the diverse needs of these two distinct age groups, which required careful consideration of their varying levels of comprehension and engagement.

To overcome these challenges, I employed several strategies. First, I focused on varying my teaching methods to keep each lesson dynamic and engaging. I incorporated different interactive elements into my lessons, such as group discussions, multimedia resources, and hands-on activities tailored to the specific interests of each age group. This approach not only helped maintain my enthusiasm but also encouraged student participation and engagement.

Additionally, I sought feedback from my mentor teacher and colleagues after each lesson. Their insights were invaluable in helping me refine my teaching methods and adapt my lesson plans more effectively for both Grade 7 and high school learners. I also took the time to reflect on each teaching session, identifying what worked well and what didn’t. This reflection allowed me to make necessary adjustments for the subsequent lessons.

Ultimately, while the experience of teaching multiple lessons to different grade levels was initially overwhelming, it became an opportunity for growth. By being proactive in seeking support and adapting my teaching strategies, I learned how to manage my energy and deliver engaging lessons tailored to the needs of my students. This experience has significantly contributed to my development as a future educator, preparing me for the diverse challenges I may face in the classroom.

After my final Teaching Experience, I feel more than ready to enter the profession as a beginner teacher. This comprehensive experience has not only solidified my understanding of teaching dynamics but also equipped me with the essential skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the classroom, particularly in the intermediate phase.

Throughout the three days, I engaged in a variety of teaching responsibilities, allowing me to develop a deeper appreciation for the nuances of classroom management, lesson planning, and student engagement. The challenges I faced, especially while adapting to different grade levels, taught me valuable lessons about flexibility and creativity in teaching.

Moreover, my excitement about beginning my career as a professional teacher is palpable. I feel confident in my ability to connect with students, implement effective teaching strategies, and create an inclusive learning environment that caters to diverse needs. The support and feedback I received from my mentor teachers and peers throughout my practical experience have further enhanced my readiness, giving me insights into best practices and areas for continued growth.

Overall, I am eager to embark on this journey, knowing that I have the foundation to make a positive impact on my future students’ learning experiences. I am excited to apply what I have learned, embrace new challenges, and contribute to the educational community as a dedicated and passionate teacher.