When I first decided I wanted to be a teacher I had my heart set on teaching elementary school. At my first placement, my mind began to change and I started to think maybe middle school is were I really belonged. I was having an existential crisis about where I wanted to end up, even though I knew I could always change my mind later on.
My first week in elementary school was a whirlwind of excitement, hugs, and “our friend Leonardo”. I was thrown into a lesson on my fourth day when my teacher was out and I was suddenly put in charge. It was scary at first but after the first class I felt right at home.
I learned in just the first few days that even though they are close in age, elementary school is very different than secondary. My teacher voice became a calm and soothing whisper. Discipline became a stern voice and a place in time out. The environment, including the faculty, students, and tab class set up, allowed me to thrive in my student teaching position. I have written a successful lesson plan that keeps students engaged, and have been enjoying getting to know all the students. The sheer number of students has been daunting, but it is something I get more used to as the days pass.
I have realized that while I am not afraid to use my teacher voice and be the bad guy when needed, my personality and teaching style is best suited for elementary school. I have only been here a couple week, but I am excited to see what the rest of the placement has in store!
PRAX-ArtEd 
It sounds like you are really flourishing in elementary school! It’s very interesting how our perceptions of our teaching styles and desires have changed throughout the semester as we’ve gained experience in both primary and secondary classrooms. The addition of the TAB element to your experience is also an interesting component; I’m curious if you think the TAB format is something you’ll look to implement, or if you just feel at home in the elementary setting with that age group of students. Either way, it sounds like you’ve been really reflecting on your experiences and that you’ve been learning a lot about yourself as an educator.
LikeLike
I agree I am interested to know your thoughts on the TAB implementation at your school and if you would use it or adjust it. Seeing you teach with the middle school students and knowing some of the things that you did not love quite as much I am so happy to read that you are truly enjoying your Littles. I am also very curious about these super engaging lesson plans, could you share, please? My CT and I are struggling to keep the one TAB grade we are doing engaged all period so I would be interested to hear your opinions.
LikeLike
Emily, I think that you are a natural with the littles but I am was so happy that you had such a positive experience with your middle school placement. Now that you know that you’ll excel at either, there are just that many more opportunities out there for you. I was on the other side of my elementary placement: looking forward to middle school and nervous for elementary. I really resonated with your note about your “teacher voice becoming a calm and soothing whisper. Discipline becoming a stern voice and a place in time out.” This was a grace that I learned the hard way while in my placement. I am so happy that you’ve enjoyed your student teaching experience and am sure you’ll be great with whatever age you end up with!
LikeLike
I can totally relate to how you felt. Going into the program I was set on high school being my place but when I go into elementary school I fell in love with the pacing the fun and the kids. I know wherever you end up you will flourish because you have the perfect demeanor for this.
LikeLike