This week, I had the opportunity to start my pre student teaching in an AP Literature and Composition class with Mr. Schoenborn. I did not know what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised at the work ethic of the students and the guidance that Mr. Schoenborn provides for them. I noticed that he often models the behavior he expects from his students in their creative writing exercises. I might follow his example and write alongside my future students.
Throughout the week, students have been actively working in discussion groups to prepare for a group comparative essay on two texts they had read over the summer. Using chapters from How to Read Literature Like a Professor, students began to analyze their choice texts. As I walked around the room to check in on each group's progress, I observed that students showed a willingness to work together collaboratively, and engaged in meaningful dialogue.
One of the things I like about this AP Literature and Composition class is that they make use of technology. I like how class materials can be found on Google Docs, which is convenient for both the instructor and the students. Also, students are able to bounce ideas off of each other as they can simultaneously edit one document. I think that the guiding questions provided for the students is very helpful to focus their ideas and show their understanding of main concepts.
So far, I have been pleased to see students take ownership of their own learning and work cooperatively with their peers. I am looking forward to seeing their progress throughout the semester. I also hope to learn some useful teaching strategies with regard to literature and composition that I can employ in my future classroom.
Throughout the week, students have been actively working in discussion groups to prepare for a group comparative essay on two texts they had read over the summer. Using chapters from How to Read Literature Like a Professor, students began to analyze their choice texts. As I walked around the room to check in on each group's progress, I observed that students showed a willingness to work together collaboratively, and engaged in meaningful dialogue.
One of the things I like about this AP Literature and Composition class is that they make use of technology. I like how class materials can be found on Google Docs, which is convenient for both the instructor and the students. Also, students are able to bounce ideas off of each other as they can simultaneously edit one document. I think that the guiding questions provided for the students is very helpful to focus their ideas and show their understanding of main concepts.
So far, I have been pleased to see students take ownership of their own learning and work cooperatively with their peers. I am looking forward to seeing their progress throughout the semester. I also hope to learn some useful teaching strategies with regard to literature and composition that I can employ in my future classroom.