Personal Observation In Mrs. Reddout's Classroom

Prior to my observation in Mrs. Reddout’s classroom this Fall, I thought that the children in my class would be a lot less creative and spunky than they actually are. It also surprised me just how in depth their emotions and feelings are for their age. I was definitely incorrect with my previous expectations, and I’m glad for it. When I learned that my cooperating teacher was the team leader for 8th grade, and the Teacher of the Year, I was really nervous; I didn’t think I’d measure up to her expectations of me. She has since told me otherwise, and that my fears were completely misplaced. I’ve noticed in my observation times that students will only really respect and listen to a teacher if he or she isn’t actually screaming at them. They

He lies, steals from other students, and attempts to cheat. He acts tough, but cries when he gets caught. I do not know much about his past, or his home life, but I do see that nearly every other student gives him a wide berth when he enters the room. Despite him being in trouble with the police before, it doesn’t seem to me like the students are afraid of him, but rather they’re annoyed by him, and would prefer to not be in his presence. He acts out through his writing in the daily journal assignment, knowing that if he writes something inappropriate that it has to be reported, which makes me wonder if he’s not getting enough attention at home. What confuses me most is that his grades are very high; he has a B in the class. It’s clear that he’s smart, but he’d rather get himself into trouble than to use his brain for good

Young adolescents are going through the most turbulent and trying time of their lives. They’ve never experienced emotional rollercoasters or painful growth spurts before, nor have they experienced the feeling of being constantly hungry, no matter how much they’ve eaten in the last hour. I think that the middle school structure is definitely a boon and a necessity in their lives, as it caters to their unique needs as individuals, provides necessary stability and structure, but still offers and encourages room to grow. Even though trends have changed, I’ve realized that they’re not so different from when I was their age. I will definitely keep that in mind, and try to relate to my students more in the