Practical Experience: The Front Lines

Before I became a Certified Teacher with the Province of Manitoba, I worked in a variety of education related positions at the University of Winnipeg--Student Services, EAL Instructor, Marker, and Exam/Test Invigilator.

However, when it came to enrolling in my education program, I knew that I would have to complete practicums in both Middle and Senior Years streams--Grades 7 to 12.

Even though my teachables are English Language Arts and French as a Second Language for Senior Years, you will see that I had to become more flexible in with the subjects that I taught.

My first practicum was at a Junior High school in Winnipeg's West End/Inner City where I taught and prepared units for the following subjects:

Social Studies:

• Grade 7 - 9 (EAL) Canadian Provinces--Quebec
• Grade 8 (Girls) Egyptian History and Middle Ages

French (as a Second Language):

• Grade 7 Food Unit

Below is a copy of my Formative Classroom Evaluation for one of my Social Studies Units which was filled out by my Faculty Supervisor. FYI--"This form reflects the course expectations of practicum courses in Education Year 4/1 AD and Education Year 5/2 AD and is designed to provide constructive feedback to students." 

Summative Evaluation, 2007 - 2008

Quotes from Formative Classroom Evaluation:

"La Donna's lesson demonstrates the ability to develop for unit and long term objectives."

"She is  aware of student behaviours around the classroom and effectively utilizes proactive and reactive strategies when appropriate."

"She is aware of the importance of student assessment and is able to evaluate student achievements in relation to the outcomes of the lesson." 

RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Understand the importance of assessing your learners  in order to identify the gaps in their skills.
• Find ways for learners to self-identify their strengths and weaknesses so that you can assist them.

Well I have to admit that it was a challenge to teach unfamiliar course content, however I employed my research skills and creativity to make really fun, educational units for these young learners!