Blog Post No.1

At the beginning of the Second Semester, all the EDFD472 students were required to attend a week of intensive classes (lectures and tutorials) where we would be learning more indepthly about the transition into the profession of teaching, it's logistics and practices.

One of the most productive tips that I have taken from this intensive has been to learn the specifics of what it is like to be a Homeroom teacher and the expectations for that role. The tutorial on this topic has allowed me to actively learn and pick up many tips and trick in managing a morning homeroom class, marking the role, signing diaries, collecting notes, making announcements and many other unforeseeable tasks.

Another really useful lecture was on Voice Management. The practical tips from professional teachers and throat specialist has helped me to look after my voice not only in the teaching practice but also just in daily activities, ensuring that I am healthy and without pain or irritation.

Throughout my upcoming 10 week internship there are three goals based on the NSW Institute of Teachers’ Professional Teaching Elements that I hope to achieve; they are as follows:

• Element 1 - Teachers know their subject content and how to teach that content to their students.
  Through this element, I aim to study the content of my KLA and comprehend it to the best of my ability, so that I will be able to effectively teach the subject to the students in an engaging and interesting way.
• Element 2 - Teachers know their students and how they learn.
  Through this element, I aim to get to know the students that I teach, come to know their learning styles, and grow to appreciate their individuality and personalities.
• Element 5 - Teachers create and maintain safe and challenging learning environments through the use of classroom management skills.
  Through this element, I aim to ensure that my students are constantly challenged and inspired to strive for better results where possible; to maintain a safe and engaging classroom environment; and to make sure that I am consistently improving my own classroom management skills.