One of the most important keys to good teaching is the ability to create a classroom environment conducive to learning. Consider the learning-environment factors discussed in the Chapter IV of TSSFFAP (Schtick and Tricks: The Easy Road to Teaching Stardom).Which of these positive-environment-building factors mentioned in TSSFFAP do you think you are/will be particularly good at? Which do you think will be more of a struggle for you?
What about the "schtick and tricks" angle? Can you think of examples of schtick and tricks that you've seen work well in a high school or college classroom and that you might use in your own teaching? Do you see any dangers to the schtick and tricks approach?
One of the best ways to get neat visual displays is to let the students do the work for you. You'll be certain to have students who can put together great bulletin boards, etc., and they typically love the chance to do that. You may have an art teacher, too, who would love to have his/her students work displayed and might be willing to give history-related art assignments. And, if nothing else, you can have lots of good maps in your room.
ReplyDeleteWhat works on the athletic field often works well in the classroom too. I love the "dummy shields" line.
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