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Suggestions on Teaching Prac. and Uni Textbooks Please

I am about to embark on my 2nd year teaching prac. in a state school in a few weeks time. Does anyone have any suggestions for making it a smoother prac. session?

My last week long prac. I was always conscious of not wanting to step on the toes of the classroom teacher. How do I know it is alright to just step up and do what needs to be done without upsetting the classroom teacher who is allowing me to learn in her class to begin with.

Is it ok to let the children know the rules of the class before starting a teaching session?

Finally does anyone have any ideas on where to gather text books at the lowest possible cost? I have acquired some from ebay, but am finding earlier editions of books (used) are selling for almost as much as the newest edition that is required from the uni book shops.

Co-op bookshop does not have the items I require and I have exhausted the web trying to find any good sellers.

Well thanks in advance, I know this is a lot to ask of you with the restrictions in time you will all experience.

Kylie

Comments for
Suggestions on Teaching Prac. and Uni Textbooks Please

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Apr 04, 2008
where to obtain text books?
by: Shaylene

Hi, I'm a first year graduate teacher and while at Uni was overwhelmed with the cost of text books. However, have solved the problem for me anyway. This may help others.... I have built up an incredible collection of old (helpful) text books by visiting every Op shop I can find. sometimes when stuck for an idea on how to get going I refer to these books and off I go. The cost is minimal- suggest others do it also- then swap between yourselves. I have and it really has worked.(Apart from the necessity it has opened up a whole new diversity in my reading areas, which I have also taken into the classroom) Shaylene

Apr 03, 2008
places to get books
by: Sarah

Hi, An idea on where to purchase teacher books is amazon.com it has so many and they are very cheap. Good luck on your prac. Make the most of every opportunity and get a copy of anything that interests you.
Wishing you all the best on your prac., Sarah

Mar 03, 2008
surviving prac
by: Sue

Pracs are always a nervous time for beginning teachers. The questions you are asking here are the ones you need to ask your supervising teacher. When I have supervised students, I have always been impressed by those that show initiative in terms of classroom management and lesson presentation. I have found having student teachers on my classes is a reminder for me to reflect upon my own teaching. My suggestion to you is to ask lots of questions, write things down and ask more questions! Have a good look at the teacher's programme - he/she should be able to guide you in the right direction for the lessons you are to plan and teach. Also reflect on each lesson, so you improve the next time. As for books, there are no cheap options! Good luck.

Feb 25, 2008
Teaching Prac. Questions
by: Donna

Hi Kylie,

Thanks for your contributions.
You must be a very busy lady, with 7 children and studying. How do you do it?

I think it is always a tad difficult going into someone else's classroom, but as you have probably already found, most Teachers are more than happy to let their student Teachers 'experiment' a little.

I definitely think it is fine for you to 'remind' the children of the class rules before starting a teaching session. An understanding of the rules and expectations of the students, set by the Teacher before starting on the Prac, is important. Unity in this area will go along way towards the children responding to you.

As for stepping on your Prac. Teacher's toes - I think it is good to be assertive - if you feel that you may be stepping a bit too hard - just ask your Teacher straight out to tell you if she feels you are overstepping the mark right from the beginning. Hopefully, she (or he), will recognise your raw enthusiasm and guide it all in the right direction (maybe even learn something themselves).

I was extremely fortunate to have had a fantastic Prac. Teacher in my final 10 week Prac. It was in Grade 1 in Perth. In my first year of teaching I actually modeled my teaching on her style. This was such a terrific place to 'start'. Over those first few years, I gradually developed my own 'style' of teaching. The more I read and observe Teachers now, the more I realize the importance of developing your own 'teaching style', or 'teaching personality', and feeling confident enough to allow that to shine through. This can take many years.

Anyway, I hope that helps a little Kylie.

I am afraid I cannot help with the textbooks. I certainly remember that they can be very costly. I hope someone else may be able to help.

All the very best and we look forward to hearing more from you soon. Particularly looking forward to hearing about your Teaching Prac.

Cheers
Donna




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