Blog 2

Now it's time to complete your second blog entry.  
Here are the possible topics you can choose for blog number 2. Remember, I am looking for connections between what you see in the field and what you have learned in the course. Please indicate the topic and write two-three paragraphs on the topic.  

• Tell about an opportunity you had to work with a small group.
• Tell about an opportunity you had to work one on one with a student.
• What other responsibilities does your classroom teacher have (duty, meetings, etc.)

Look back at Module Zero if you need some reminders about how to do the blogs.

Here we go...I think I finally figured out how to Blogg.  I have had more opportunities to work one on one than with small groups, but I have truly enjoyed the time with each and every one of the students I have worked with.  I am looking forward to completing my education and applying what I have learned in my own classroom.  I'm excited to make a difference in the lives of the children I have the opportunity to teach.

There are been a few times working with small groups, with children with special needs.  The recent topic in Module 3, the focus has been on diversity of students and adapting the lessons to meet their needs.  I have witnessed this in action in the special needs classroom.  The teacher is amazing!!!  She has used many different techniques to help and educate her students.

The time in which I am able to participate with the class is during math time.  The class is divided into levels and the small groups rotate through four different centers, each with a math related activity.  Many times the activity or assignment is closely related or even repeated to assure that the concept is being understood.  The amount of patience shown by the teacher and her aids is truly remarkable.

The teacher is well educated and understands the importance of using different strategies to help in educating her students.  In addition to teaching, the teacher is also responsible for the annual Individualized Education Program (IEP) for each and everyone of her students.  In my opinion, this teacher is remarkable!

Introduction to Education 1010-X07
What developmental differences do you see in the children in the classroom? While volunteering in a first grade class I noticed the instruction was constructivism. The children were learning the meaning of "equal". The teacher had the children drawing a picture of their team in a square and the child were asked to draw another team in the square next to their team that would be equal to their team. Not only did this activity help in learning the meaning of equal, but was also in the "spatial intelligence" in Multiple Intelligence learning technique. Most of the children were able to grasp this concept of "equal", while others did not understand the significance of the assignment. One student wanted to draw 1,000 members on his team. The teacher commented, "we don't want to have to be here all day" and encouraged the student to use a smaller number. This was a demonstration of behaviorism and using positive reinforcement in teaching the student. I found it interesting to see the children learning this new word and concept. It was something relatively easy to understand, but yet there was still a difference in the understanding of this topic amongst the students.

Intoduction to Education

I am a student in the Introduction to Education class at Utah Valley University.

Field Experience

I have had the opportunity to volunteer in a first grade classroom, fourth grade classroom, and a special education classroom.