This Monday was our visit to the Middle school. We do this for one to see if we want go change our field of study, but also to see either where our students will be going to or coming from. Middle school is a world difference from elementary. I love most how elementary schools are personalized in the hallways with their students artwork. Elementary schools are just more open and inviting for the first years of children being gone from their parents for so long.
Now the class I was put into in our middle school visit was known as the worst class. They all had very surreal and tragic personal struggles at a very young age, and because of this acted out in class. I could honestly say they would not respect anyone with kindness, they would run all over them. Accidentally, I was sarcastic with them and the teacher in class, and because of that I got along great with the teacher and the students listened to anything I had to say. It was such a different approach than what I am used to as I am being trained to be an elementary school teacher. I love kindness in the classroom and showing love and nurture, but that is not always what is needed, As people grow older, they need more sternness than when they were younger. It is a harsh truth, but I still feel as if we can show more love than punishment in the middle schools. It is a job I am not meant for.
Every age responds differently. It is such an odd reality that I had never thought would or should change.
I hope you can see why we are intentional in requiring visits at all three levels. This helps you to truly understand the difference between various grade levels. It also helps you to see the differences in the experiences of teachers and students. Again, what are some specific things you saw that you want to replicate? What are some things you want to change?
ReplyDeleteI know I definitely want to make my classrooms more open and personal. It was a less stressful environment in the elementary school than in the middle school. I want to make sure I get up and walk around and know everything that is going on around me in class like the elementary teacher I observed did.
DeleteYou are totally right one how elementary and middle school is different. The atmosphere is very different. I would be like you, feeling that they would run all over me. But you are right on how every age responds differently. Really different.
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