1. What is the “feel” of instruction/learning in the classroom? Tense, active, relaxed, enjoyable, comfortable, etc.? Why do you think this is the case, at least at this point in time?
The classroom has a very homey feel to it. The children all seem to be relaxed and enjoying their time. I think that Ms. Dearen is a calm teacher, and makes the children feel calm by her manners. Students tend to pull their vibes off their teacher, so if their teacher is calm and engaged, they will be calm and engaged.
2. What appears to be the relationship between the teacher and the students?
Ms. Dearen has a wonderful relationship with her students. You can tell she really cares for them. Her teaching plan is a little weird, since she only has the students for forty five minutes a day, which she states is really hard on her, but she makes the best of it. She makes sure that the students are picked up everyday at the same time, even if she is not there, so their interventions continue.
3. How interested are the students in the content or learning materials? How do you know?
The first three days of the week, the district mandates that she use an online program for them, so they are on their computers those days. They seem be really engaged in what they are doing on the computer, and have stated that it is very fun to be on.
4. How is instruction related to students’ real life experiences, interests, or needs?
From what I was able to observe, most of what they did was on the computer. From what I watched on the computer, it was a lot of translating spanish sounds to english sounds. Learning to connect the two languages, making them stronger in english.
5. In what ways does the teacher adapt instruction/materials to address students’ needs and strengths?
The program that she uses on the computer, automatically adjusts to what the child is able to do. As far as her instruction, she tests the kids on where they are, and teaches them to that level.
6. How would you describe the demographics of the students (age range, ethnic groups, gender, new or returning, primary language, etc.?
This is the first year that this school has ELD, so they are all new students. She sees all grade levels and ages at different times. They are mostly hispanic kids. They mostly have spanish as a primary language.
7. What is the overall management style (organization of time/space/ resources, expectations of students’ responsibility and behavior)? What works well, and why?
Overall, I see that she uses respect as a great managment style. The students respect her and she respects them. There aren't any major behavior issues. Also, the fact that she works with students in small groups, I also think helps as well.
8. Describe or sketch the physical environment of the classroom below (seating, supplies and equipment, work areas, lighting, etc.)
1. How would you describe your ELL/ESL/bilingual program model?
I am mandated to use a computer program for 20 minutes a day with my students called Imagine Learning. I then use a program called On Their Way to English for Kindergarten and 1st grade. The 2nd and 3rd grade students I use the 95% chip kit to help improve phonics skills. Then for the 4th and 5th grade students I use short articles and then follow the topics that the regular class is teaching. We use verbal discussions before we move to written form so that students will be more successful.
2. What is your philosophy of teaching?
I feel that all students can learn. They may not be able to learn at the same rate or the same exact topics that are being taught. Students learn the topics that they are developmentally ready for so knowing where your students are developmentally is important for them to be successful.
3. What is your philosophy of classroom management?
I feel like classroom management is one of the most important parts of teaching. Students need to know what is expected of them and the consequences for not following the expectations. Postive student and teacher relationships are important. If students have a positive relationship with the teacher the more likely students will preform well on important tasks.
4. What are issues facing you as a ELL/ESL/Bilingual teacher?
The amount of time I get to spend with each group is only 45 minutes which is not a lot of tiem to get skills covered.
5. What are issues facing students in your program?
Mnay of my students don't have support at home in either language.
6. How could ELL/ESL/Bilingual programs be more effective for your students?
I think the amount of time my students spend on the computer program could be used in a more benficial ways without the computer.
7. Share a little background of yourself, please (schooling, teaching experiences, achievements, degrees, etc.)
I have been teaching for 16 years. I taught 12 years in Special Education and 4 years in 3rd grade. This is my first year as an ELD teacher. I have Master's in Special Education an am TESOL endorsed.