any advice??

S

sugarbean

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A long story that I’m going to try to simplify.

Tomorrow I’m going on an interview for a part time teaching position. Apparently these kids can be pretty difficult and their regular teacher just quit leaving the school in a bind.

If I get the position (which seems likely) what type of ice breakers are appropriate for 4th graders?? How should I approach the subject of me being their new teacher?? I’ve never taught before, let alone elementary school (my degree is in engineering).

I also want to let the director of education know that if I’m offered a job that requires me to move I may have to leave. I’d feel like an irresponsible jerk taking this position then leaving in a few weeks for a different job. But how can I word that??
i'm pretty sure she knows this is temporary, but I'm not sure.
 
One engineer to another:
One of the best teachers I had in high school was a CE who was taking a sabbatical. He understood things and explained them in a way that anyone could understand it. No 'education theory' crap.

As far as the students and the bosses, be up front and honest. The kids will respect you if you're straight with them, no BS. Make rules and follow them.
As for the Bosses, Open and honest. If they know who they're hiring from the start, you'll have less trouble later.
 
good advice
 
Okay - icebreakers......my most memorable teachers were the goofy ones who weren't afraid to be goofy or come off nerdy. They were fun, animated and smiled a lot. A little dancing wouldn't hurt neither. They may look at you strange at first, but remember peer pressure, they may not start to show that they like it until someone else does. Smile and wink a lot...no grumpy, mad faces...make it fun and laugh a lot...don't forget to ask them questions (like you are interested in them and that they have a say in the matter) and get them involved. And...always keep that 'cat that swallowed the canary' grin on.....always keep them guessing.
 
Honesty is the best policy, especially with kids! As a "Pedi Professional" myself, tell the kids that you "may" be with them only a short time, and, that you want to enjoy the time with them! Period. No long stories, no excuses, otherwise they could use such a tactic against you. Set the rules and regulations and remember with children CONSISTENCY is key!! What is true today MUST be true tomorrow. Be willing to listen, be willing to discipline. This is not about a popularity contest, but rather about education.
I home schooled my own son, with no "Formal Degree" in Education, and, did a good job! Teaching is about sharing knowledge, about planning, about challenging the student, and, encouraging them to reach their highest potential. If that is a "C" level then that is okay too!
With regard to the powers that be, or the management team at the school, lay your cards on the table, and be done with it. However, make sure you have some "paper trail" that states you have informed them of a potential leave! That way, if you need recommendations from them, you are covered. Good luck and God bless you and the children you will be working with, and, loving a little along the way!
 
I hope I am not too late...

Bribery....

use lots of chocolate, gum and whistles.
 
thanks for the advice!

I started teaching Tuesday afternoon (the same day as the interview, but no pressure:doh:) and the kids are rambunctious, but fun. And the staff has been great helping me adjust to everything.

thanks again!
 
Start off by walking in, slamming down your attache case and screaming "Line up, b.tches!" Then crack them each on the knuckes with a ruler as a preemptive strike. Theyll be good after that.

For me the big thing about liking teachers was when they encouraged learning, not just learning about whet they had on schedule for the day.. We could ask any questions we wanted, regardless of how loosely tied to the subject. We didnt stick to the lesson plan like it was written in stone, we were flexible. If we found something interesting, we could take a tangent and discuss that for the day..
 
I agree w/ you LS....at least your lower comment. :tongue: Those were the best kind of teachers.
 
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