Student Teaching Experience Concluding Thoughts

As the final week of student teaching comes to a close, I would to take the chance to reflect on some of the experiences and professional growth that I have embodied. It really has been a time of growth, both professional and personal. There has been a lot of challenges and a lot of hard work and dedication involved in these past months, but hard work will always pay off in some way in the future.

I would truly like to thank my two mentors at Oley Valley High School, Mr. Deysher and Mrs. Rice. Both have been incredible to work with and always were available for endless suggestions and support. I loved seeing them both so passionate about their jobs and somehow finding an endless amount of energy to complete all their ‘superhero-sized list’ of duties. Also, talking to various students throughout the semester and hearing the positive impact these two teachers have had on them has been so enlightening!

From the beginning of my semester to the end, the students no longer intimidated me (I’m the boss!), I felt more comfortable being more flexible in my lesson plans, I finally was figuring out an organization system that was working better for me, and I could finally locate everything around the ag department (as far as equipment and such, because it’s a big place!). Also, I really appreciated some of the quirky things students would say or silly things students would do. While I like to keep a strict classroom with clear expectations. I actually enjoy when students are students and give everyone a good laugh (within reasonable boundaries of course).

Tips for my future classroom

-Set a clear late policy

-Determine an “IN BIN” location, so students aren’t always handing me papers!

-Paperclips and sticky notes are some of your best friends!

-Review games are so much fun with a little candy incentive

-Make classroom management poster and refer to them!

-Change groups and seats A LOT so they get used to always changing

Tips for my future FFA advisor duties

-CDEs: Have student folders for each event that they must return after the CDE is completed

-Have an FFA Chapter computer so that all FFA documents are made and saved on it

-Remind 101: Teacher Group Text

-Ag Advisory Board: They will help you a lot!

-Have the secretary(s) write handwritten thank you notes for everything!

-You are allowed to say “no” sometimes

-Be prepared to breath, eat, and sleep ‘ag ed’

In conclusion, I would like to thank my university professors and supervisors for the preparation before this experience and the support during. My visiting university supervisor was Ron Frederick, and I truly enjoyed the days that he joined us. Thank you for all your encouraging feedback!

Real life is here!

Yes, the time has come for me to leave and move into the next stage of my life. I am still figuring out those details at the moment, but it looks like I will leave teaching to a later time in my life. While I had a good experience and I am prepared for a classroom of my own, I am not at the position right now to dedicate myself long-term to a program, which is so important. Because I am so mobile right now and have a restlessness to travel, I am pursuing other career options at this point. Someday, when the time is right, I look forward to taking on the superhero responsibilities of an agriscience teacher :)

Second to Last Week

My teaching perspective changed a bit this week with the fact that now I'm more in an observation role again. While I am still teaching two periods a day and co-teach, I now have the opportunity to watch my cooperating teachers teach. Although I am feeling confident in my developing teaching skills, I now REALLY enjoy and appreciate watching my cooperating teacher teach. (I think he missed not being in front of the classroom for a couple of weeks). It's really amazing what a veteran teacher can bring into the classroom, including just a wealth of knowledge and a great supply of stories that I could only hope to have after a few more years under my belt! Also seeing the passion for teaching and the subject that is brought to the classroom is truly inspiring.


My final class is Ag Environmental, and I'm teaching a Wildlife Unit! The best part of this unit is that I am for the most part clueless (although I do have a decent background) about some of these topics compared to some of the avid outdoorsmen in the class. These students are generally the trouble makers, and it is so WONDERFUL to have them truly engaged in the classroom (and even teaching!). We also had a Wildlife CDE practice after school Tuesday, which I supervised, and it was a great time for all the students who sometimes aren't the most engaged ones in class.

In conclusion, I would finally like to announce that we got approval to bring a horse to school for the Animal Science (and Food Science) classes. It is one of my own, and I'm completely pumped to demonstrate the basic haltering, leading, and grooming to students who live in such a strong equine area! Maybe some new equine enthusiasts will emerge!

A 'Beyond the Classroom' Type of Week

It has been a pretty interesting week this week. From fish in a school van, to loose cockroaches in the classroom, to running on the practices fields, it's been an exciting week! 

Road Trip! 

We loaded up a school van with barrels and 5 students and off went went to a huge aquaculture farm to pick up our fish for our hydroponics system. The owners were great and the students had an absolute blast seeing the facility and picking out their fish! Two students are using the system for their SAE projects, so they were especially excited. Despite the long car ride home and too small of buckets, 30 of the 35 half pound tilapia made it home, fairly good numbers. Throughout the rest of the week, we took almost every class out there to see the fish (hot topic in the ag room), and we are planning to incorporate it into every curriculum in various ways...exciting!

Cringing Faces of Male Animal Reproduction

This week was our male reproduction topics in Animal Science. All I can say is that I'm glad it's over now. At times I just couldn't hold my laughs back seeing students' making faces... but we know castration is an important part of the animal industry.

Out and About on the Practices Fields

From soil samples to a variation of "freeze tag" for our adaptations activity, we were really able to enjoy the bright skys this week! Plus, I had no 'classroom' management issues outside, which meant my standards and warnings were effective.

With just two more weeks of this student teaching experience left, the time is really winding down!

Spring Excitement

This week just flew by! It's amazing to think that in just three weeks, my time student teaching here at Oley Valley High School will be over. This week's lessons went very well overall. Plus we got to do a lot of really fun labs, including an outdoor lab to help harness in some of the students' spring time excitement! 

Animal Science: Pregnant Rat dissection lab--> We used the whole week not only to look at the reproductive system of the rat, but also to review all the other systems of the rat. Everyone was such good sports and everyone had a blast, especially when they got to cut the fetus' out of the uterine horns. The lab practical was Friday.

Food Science: Pie Crust lab--> Within our Lipids Unit, we compared the use of various lipids in the baking of pie crusts. It led to some great discussions about different types of fats. Time is always a struggle with these types of labs. 43 minutes go very quickly.

Ag Environmental --> We got to go outside and enjoy the beautiful weather as they searched for 5 plants and animals to identify and discuss adaptations that made those animals suitable for a ecosystem. They all really enjoyed this (and I did too!).

Ag Biology --> We learned about selective breeding and GMOs. It was interesting talking about GMOs when certain individuals were strongly against them. That was a little tough as a teacher.

Professional Development: 

Oley Valley hosted the Eastern Region PAAE meeting! We all really enjoyed showing everyone around the facility. Plus it's always great to talk with other ag teacher and also to hear about what's happening with PAAE :)

Banquet Week- A Busy One!

With a 220 person FFA Banquet to plan for, the Officer Team, Chapter Members, and us as Advisors have been hard at work for over three weeks. With the banquet last Thursday, it really was a full week...affirming my belief that Ag Teachers ARE super heros! It turned out beautifully, and I was so proud of the hard work everyone put in to prepare for this banquet, especially the officer team! They did fantastic and the opportunity to meet everyone's parents and other community members was wonderful.

We also finalized manuscripts for the Area Speaking CDE coming up this Thursday, and this week will be filled with after-school practices.

Classes went very well this week, and although we didn't have very many large labs, three of the classes had their unit tests. Over the past weeks, I have been able to improve my test making skills and also trying different methods of unit reviews for the students. This past week, I've made different worksheets with review questions and for other classes I had unit outlines. I also tried different review techniques the previous day. I do not particularly like testing the students, as some of them still show their nerves, no matter how well I try to prepare them all! We strive to keep high academic credibility within the Ag Department, so the tests are not always "easy" but we do do our best to make sure the students are fully prepared and that the test is fair.

One activity that I particularly enjoyed doing with my students is using the idea of traits, punnet square, and heritability to build a marshmallow creature in my Ag Biology class (thanks Communities of Practice!). Most really enjoyed this activity. Also, my students have been incredibly fun in this class, as they go along with a lot of my 'creative' ideas and still stay very focused on their tasks. For example, one day we pretended the middle aisle between the desks was a 'run way' and students eagerly did some joking dance or trick as they walked to and from the board to show an example problem. I think I laughed just as much as they did! It was great! Plus they still were able to focus in between when we talked about the examples on the board. :)

Soil Ribbons to Tofu!

With only Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday at Oley Valley, the week really seemed to fly by (as it always does!). Unfortunately, while I was able to do some really need things in the classroom (pig ovaries, tofu... you know, the normal ag classroom stuff!), it was frustrating at times. The rest of the week was in State College for the Gamma Sigma Delta Research Expo and our cohort student teacher meeting.

Successes in the classroom this week- 

Ag Environmental: We are spending 4 days learning soil basics, and they were a lot of fun for all the activities! With some of them having a good background in soils from the Middle School Envirothon, they were super engaged in the topic and loved all the visuals.

Animal Science: This week kicked off the start to the female reproduction system, and they are finally loosening up to all the "terminology." It helped adding some non-relevant side conversations to get them to loosen up!

Ag Biology: I finally got to begin teaching this great group of 10th graders. I really enjoy the class dynamic of this class. Since they all know each other fairly well, the classroom environment is control but comfortable--> important to the quality of learning! (I need to start thinking of ways to connect my Food Science class, but I'll talk about that next.)

SAE Visit- Dairy Production!
This trip included a visit to the largest dairy farm in the area! I love meeting the student in his home setting and meeting his family as well. Plus, I loved learning about the set-up of the farm, the various equipment, and new technology...COOL!!

Exciting Moment! 90 ft. span sprayer!

Frustrations in the classroom this week- 

Food Science: In connection to our  Protein Unit, we spent two days making tofu: soymilk, then tofu. Unfortunately, they were so unappreciative. So much complaining, many students refusing to touch anything because they didn't like the smell, many students leaving their groups to do other things. The disconnect between students in this class amazes me in this 13 student group. Sometimes I wonder, isn't this better than taking notes?! Just strain the tofu!!

Food Bank to Hummus to Maple Syrup

 

This week started off with me away from Oley and attending SLLC. Unfortunately, Oley Valley does not attend SLLC or ACES, but I got the opportunity to attend SLLC independently. While it would have been wonderful to have students with me, the experience was eye-opening in it's own way. Plus, I got to enjoy the time with other students and teachers across the state. I really enjoyed volunteering at the Central PA Food Bank with all the great students as well!

I came back to Oley Valley Wednesday feeling like I was so out of the loop! It took me the whole day to get back into the groove and get all the students on the same page. As I worked hard to get back into it this week, it truly flew by!

Favorite part of this week?! The Hummus Lab in Food Science! Ok, so why were we making hummus in class?! And why did I spend the better part of my Wednesday evening traveling practically around the county to get supplies?! Because hummus is a perfect example of protein complimentation, as it combines two incomplete plant proteins (chickpeas and tahini paste) to provide all the essential amino acids! Four groups of students each chose a slightly different variation, and then we completed a sensory evaluation for each of them. While some students were not won over by hummus [yet ;)], most really enjoyed this lab.

What "cool" activity ended up not being so "cool"? The Plant Science class just tapped a sugar maple tree, so I took my 9th grade Ag Environmental class on a mini field trip outside to see it and talk about maple syrup production. While I was super excited to get them out of the classroom, most were not too thrilled (unfortunately). Yes, it was a little chilly, but still.

What technique did I try that I still don't truly know if it was successful or not? Later in the week, I was showing my Ag Environmental class a movie (they also had a movie worksheet), but despite my warnings, there was a lot of side conversations during the movie. I ended the movie early and told everyone to get out a piece of paper for a "quiz" and if anyone talked, they would receive a zero. I really did not want to do this, but I wanted to make a point. Unfortunately, two students did talk and I gave them both zeros and they were very upset with me (although I told them the next day it was worth 4 participation points, but expect better of them). I'm hoping this will stop side conversations.

Until next time! Enjoy the first real signs of spring! 

March Rolls In

And March has rolled on in. This has been an interesting week, as it seemed to really have its ups and downs throughout the week. Banquet planning, greenhouse/weather challenges, and a field trip all led to a busy week! Plus, a visit from my university supervisor, Mr. Frederick, was great! I also tried some new teaching techniques and projects this week; some were awesome, some were a wreck!

What worked this week?

Wednesday and Thursday- Animal Science: I set up 4 equine stations to quiz students on feeds, grooming tools, saddle parts, and bridle parts. The first day, we had a practice lab practical. The second day was the real deal! Results? Confident and successful students (and let me tell you, it wasn't an easy lab practical).

Tuesday and Wednesday- Food Science: We were out in the lab! Two hands-on labs that if I hadn't prepared the equipment ahead of time, they wouldn't have had time to complete the labs. Results? Happy students with their creative juices flowing.

Friday- Ag Program Field Trip to Berks County's Career Fair: Student were on their best behavior and it was just a ton of fun to get to know some of them so much better.

Ok, so what failed? 

Monday- Food Science: I began the proteins unit and assigned students to prepare an informal presentation about their assigned mini topic related to the functions of proteins in foods. Results? Many confused students and one super confused student teacher. I spent a lot of time that evening re-ordering the unit a bit to make it more logical... it's working.

Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday- Ag Environmental: They worked on a three-day land use group project. Results? While some enjoyed it and it challenged their math skills, I had struggled keeping everyone focused. Three days is too long. I will reformat it for the future.

Professional Development Note: As the thoughts of Spring are rolling in, I am mentally preparing myself for a VERY packed summer as an equestrian clinician, instructor, coach, and rider. Wow, this student teaching experience is really beginning to develop my teaching abilities and general confidence that is transferable to almost any type of context. In the formal school setting, I am experiencing SO MANY different types of learners and personalities. While I am continually challenged by this (my favorite part of this experience), I am truly developing a better understanding of how different people need different teaching techniques to succeed. While I have an unlimited amount to learn in this area, I thrilled to offer my equestrian students this summer with instruction based not only on horse experience, but a better understanding of the needs of different learners in any type of context.

Weekly Overview and Speaking CDE

Well we finally got a full week of school in this time! I added the Food Science class midway through the week; however, the highlight of this week was taking the students to the first round of the Speaking CDE event. Now, I'm starting to get it...why their are so many passionate agriculture teachers, because this feeling is just awesome! It is so wonderful seeing your students succeed, plus it was just great hanging out with them and joking around outside of the school setting. This is exactly what I needed during this time of student teaching.


MONDAY

Ansci- Great lesson on horse tack. I began by giving students all different types of tack, grooming tools, and other equipment. They then had to figure out in what order they would use everything to tack up a horse. Plus we identified each piece. It was a lot of fun.

Ag Enviro- Mr. Deysher came in to talk about the upcoming ag courses being offered next year and then we headed out to the lab to work with our acid rain plants and test the water for the trout. We came back into the classroom with just enough time to review Friday's materials.

TUESDAY

Ansci- We began talking about equine facilities and had the students draw their own facility. This is so awesome to see them using their creativity and getting really into the activity. Only having the last 10 minutes of class to work on this, I've decided to give them more time tomorrow (despite having different original plans).

Ag Enviro- Today we summed up our unit in preparation for the test Thursday. Here too I also had to decide to make more time and move the test Friday. I guess I will see if this extra time to review will help them!

WEDNESDAY

Ansci- Students enjoyed finishing their facilities drawings and then we held a discussion about equine diet. I need to get more people to volunteer

Food Sci- Introduction and classroom procedures...here we go Food Science!

Ag Enviro- Today, we finished up loose ends from the unit. I also tried something new to engage more students...Popsicle sticks with their names on it. It works! 

Today something really powerful happened... I've been spending hours editing speeches and practicing with students after school for the Speaking CDE, and today was the day for the students to compete! I was like a proud parent siting there as time keeper seeing so many Oley students not only participating, but excelling! For the first time, I also felt like I could have a really good time with all the students...not just being 'mean-rule-enforcer-Ms. Urban' that sometimes I feel I am, despite really wanting to loosen up the reins. It was a really exciting evening for all of us. :)

THURSDAY
  
Ansci- Nutrition and body Scoring! We did a lot in class with passing around and identifying different feeds (and beddings too).

Food Science- Students were making up tests for reviewing for NOCTI

Ag Enviro- Review game! I made up a game that if a team member answered a questions correctly, they got to try my challange: They had to get a partner, each holding a cone, pass the ball and catch it! It really was great fun :)

FRIDAY

Ansci- Routine care: We talked about the farrier, vet, and equine dentist, and Mike Rowe covered the rest (Dirty Jobs). It was hilarious.

Food Science- I did too much powerpointing here and I'm going to change that.

Ag Enviro- Test and then they read an article. Overall, I was happy with how most of the students did on the test.

2014 FFA Week

As FFA week came to a close, I left the school Friday with my very first FFA shirt proudly sporting the words "Oley Valley FFA" and the sense that the whole school district was reminded about the impacts and accomplishments this FFA Chapter has made on students and their community. After just a short three-day school week, this weekend will be a well-earned refresh time! The officers did an awesome job organizing a spirit week and free t-shirts for all the members to wear. Also, the chapter hung FFA logos all over the school with students' names on them which they could then turn in at lunch for free icecream....that of course went over super well!! The officers also attended the school board meeting to make announcements and hand school board members thank you baskets (filled with donated, local ag products). Finally, the week concluded with a well-attended teacher breakfast Friday morning, and I was thrilled to see a huge crew of FFA members there to help!

Here's how teaching went this week: 

Monday: No School for President's Day

Tuesday: Snow day

Wednesday:

An Sci- Today we review equine parts and then continued to learn about horse conformation. I had a short lecture and then had the students rotate through stations to identify the different conformation faults. It went super well!

Ag Enviro- I am beginning to talk about climate change, but first we are learning about the reasons for different climates around the world. As a class activity, we held the "climate Olympics" which students were put into groups (countries) and were assigned a topic to become experts on and teach their peers in some creative way. We ran out of class time but we will continue tomorrow with this activity. It is taking a whole period longer than I expected, but I like how it's going! Plus both classes are doing well with it!

Thursday:

An Sci- Today we presented the horse sports project and had some great discussions. Other than the initial struggles with iMovie, they turned out very well. We also had some great discussions...until the cockroach walked across the floor...

Ag Enviro- Continuation of Climate Olympics. We also used turn tables and expo markers to learn the Coriolis Effect. The first session loved this. The second session thought it was completely stupid...interesting.

Friday:

An Sci- Today we continued presenting our horse sport projects. I had the students pick their own partners for this project. While this is risky, it worked really well for this class! I also talked about my summer living in Belgium riding for Karen Donckers as she prepared for the London 2012 Olympics. Story time!

Ag Enviro- Today we talked about El Nino. My interest approach involved a student volunteer comparing hot and cold water in two mugs and talking about evaporation. We also had a great discussion about how this effected the US corn prices in 2011 and 2012. It was great! Although my powerpoint was terribly confusing for them, so I completely changed it for the second session and it was much better.