In general I like to stay ahead of the teaching/learning program. This helps me to do the job well and be prepared for the unexpected events that occur.
So, with this in mind, what's on the agenda:
Math
Students are completing the multiplication unit and at the start of the year they'll investigate division in a large number of ways. During the week before the winter break, we'll also investigate volume with an enjoyable, seasonal project.
Science
Students are beginning to investigate matter in a number of ways and will continue this study in the new year. Students will also begin to think deeply about how they will work with partners and small groups to forward advocacy projects related to climate change and caring for our local environment.
Reading
We'll continue our practice of beginning the day four days a week with reading. So far this has been a successful addition to the teaching/learning day.We'll also continue reading efforts with the grade-level reading teacher and RTI efforts.
Writing
Students are busy writing stories for the Winter Story Contest and they will continue to study writing during their daily writing class and as they write throughout the curriculum.
Special Events
There's a good number of special events planned including musical performances, expert visitors, and field studies on the agenda now and into the new year.
SEL
We'll continue to have regular class meetings to address SEL needs and learning. We'll also continue to foster teamwork and the attitudes and behaviors that make that successful during science and math lessons.
The Big Picture
It's mostly a detailed time in my teaching career as I dig in deep mainly to improve math and science teaching. This requires a substantial amount of reading and research. Yet I'll make time during the holiday break to read Timeless Learning as one way to think about the big picture of teaching and learning. Also, with regard to the big picture, I'll work with colleagues to re-look at our schedule with some ideas about improving our overall routine for school year 2019-2020 as one way to improve the program. Further I'll look for ways to partner with outside organizations including Audubon and ATMIM to learn with other educators and experts in the specific fields of science and math, and I'll continue to work with our local union board to ensure and develop good support for apt teaching and learning in the system where I work.
This is a full menu that requires good energy, time, attention, and collaboration--all work that I'm committed too as I continue down the teaching road. Onward.