Comments on: Looking Back on My First Semester

By: Crystal

Crystal — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 19:40:03 +0000

I really like that you distinguish the importance of separating your teaching obligations with your private life. I’m not sure this is something I did as well as I wanted to my first semester, actually, I KNOW I didn’t, but it is something that I focus on more now.

As far as “failures” (aka: learning), I like the opportunity to always push myself/my thinking on what I’m doing. And I think if we didn’t 2nd guess or question what we do (no matter how well it went), then there’s something missing…

And I had to laugh when you mentioned spelling words wrong when writing on the board. My students wanted to know why I wasn’t a fan of the board because I had “nice handwriting”…well, they quickly learned, ha! :-) But I don’t mind those situations because it shows them even English teachers make mistakes sometimes. Too many times they are caught up on the idea of English = perfection, and that’s not the case. If we are all learning, then THAT is the true success!

By: Terri Hart

Terri Hart — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 04:11:36 +0000

“Is it possible to go through your first year without botching a lesson (many perhaps)” –
I don’t think it’s possible to go through your 20th year without botching a lesson!! It’s all part of those troughs that make us better teachers.
Great reflective post. Sounds like you’ve had a great start.

By: Dorit Sasson

Dorit Sasson — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 14:46:21 +0000

Yes, you hit the nail on the head. It’s all about creating a balance but unfortunately, it’s still very hard for teachers (new teachers especially) to create that balance.

Teaching is a very giving profession. It is not a paycheck job; it is a calling. We need to know how to respond to the demands of the workplace by taking the time to create that balance. How timely – I’ve just written an article on creating a balance!
http://newteacherresourcecenter.com/?p=1969

Dorit Sasson
The New Teacher Resource Center
“Make Your Teaching Sparkle. Teach for Success. Make a difference in the classroom.”
http://www.NewTeacherResourceCenter.com
http://www.MakeYourTeachingSparkle.com

By: Shelly Terrell

Shelly Terrell — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 09:58:44 +0000

Great post! I really like your advice to take care of yourself. I see too many burnt out teachers. I definitely think balance is key!

By: uberVU - social comments

uberVU - social comments — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 09:56:01 +0000

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