As a ten year vet, and can still remember my student teaching
experience and reflect on the students teachers I have had, I
agree with the previous posts.
First, I don't know how YOU know your CT, but if you want to get
to know them, and them you, I'd suggest contacting them and
having them over for dinner or inviting them out to eat. I have
done this with each student teacher I've had, and over a quiet,
relaxing meal without distractions, we get to know each other.
PLUS, as you get to know your CT, don't be afraid to share your
weaknesses and strengths. If they know what to look for in
lacking areas of your personality or educational background,
it'll be easier for them to note your growth. Plus, as you get
to know them, you will recognize their personality type and what
they will expect. Don't be afraid to ask questions. I know
it's repeated over and over, but there really isn't studip
questions. I'd rather look a bit foolish now when I'm not being
evaluated rather than make an a$$ out of myself when it counts.
You have an advantage of having the summer to make contacts with
the CT. Take advantage of that.
As for breakfast, it sounds a bit too fast for the first day or
first week. I would imagine the CT is still in charge and the
last thing they'll want is a disruption to their schedule, just
because you want to shine on the students. I'd treat it like
the first day of a college class. Bring your notebook, writing
tools, and open eyes and ears. You might also ask the CT or
principal ahead of time for permission to video tape an entire
lesson or two and then go back and watch the lesson a few days
later. With fresh eyes and ears, you might see classroom
management skills or simple discipline acts that you might have
missed in class. Plus you can go back, take notes and create
questions to ask the CT.
I can tell you that the teacher I am today, is nothing like the
student teacher or first year teacher I was. I've grown and
matured over 10 years. This is not the litmus test for being a
teacher. it's the first rung of the ladder.
Good luck.

On 6/18/09, vet teacher wrote:
> It's natural to be a bit nervous and you say you're excited
> too. If you want to curb your nervousness ask yourself - what's
> the worst that could happen? Some people in their ST don't like
> their mentor and some find out they don't like teaching but -
> how bad are either of those?
> But it doesn't sound to me like you're going to be either one
> of those - and there's nothing wrong with being quiet - at all.
> I'm quiet in new situations too. Temper your quiet with warm
> smiles. The kids talk enough - that you're quiet is fine just
> be sure you don't come off cold and anyone who smiles is never
> thought cold.
>
> The bagels are a nice idea but - some schools don't want anyone
> eating in the classrooms - it brings mice. Until you know how
> this school works, I'd eat my breakfast at home. Bring pencils,
> bring a pen, bring tissues - bring a note book to take notes in
> - especially bring that but I'd say don't bring the bagels.
>
> t the end of august and I was
>> wondering any any past ST or CTs had any advice on how to
>> bypass being nervous the first couple of days. I have met
>> my CT and gone to her class four times so far but we have
>> not had much of a chance to talk because her schedule is so
>> packed when I go. She did give me some positive feedback on
>> the way I worked with one child so far. I have a tendency
>> to be really quiet when I am first in a situation and I
>> know that does not reflect well when ST. I feel ok when I
>> think of it as week by week but when I think of all that is
>> riding on ST I get nervous. I am very excited as well! Any
>> feedback would be great. Also if anyone has any feedback or
>> ideas on how to make a great impression your first week
>> with the class and CT. The first couple of days I am just
>> going to help the CT set up etc. I was thinking of bringing
>> bagels or something for breakfast depending on what time
>> she needs me to come?

Share This Post | Report This Post

Next Post >>

Posts on this thread, including this one