I could make a list of things I'd like to do better tomorrow than I did yesterday.
Said list:
- develop better math tasks
- teach kids to write with more sophisticated details
- confer in a way that thoroughly nudges each writer
- use read aloud strategies to their potential
- develop a system for better vocabulary acquisition
- get into deeper thinking
- improve the use of meaningful conversations between kids about their thinking
- teach long vowel patterns better
- continually improve authentic phonics instruction
- learn how to use my new document camera and soon-to-own Smart board
- turn the struggling readers into confident, fluent readers
- be more systematic with math warm-ups
- implement more Common Core
- etc.
For years my goal has been to perfect first grade, knowing full well that it's an unreachable goal. Usually those types of goals are discouraging but not this one. It keeps me moving in the right direction. I've a feeling that in ten years, my list will be just as long as it is today, as it should be.
This is such a fitting post for you! You always strive to do your best and what is best for your students. And they are better for it. :)
ReplyDeleteLori
Conversations in Literacy
Lori, thank you, as always, for your thoughtful words. There's just always something to work on.
DeleteGreat list by a great teacher! You are so reflective!
ReplyDeleteLiteracyMinute
Sandi, thank you. I appreciate your vote of confidence. That means a lot to me.
DeleteMy list is very similar to yours! I just try to work on one thing at a time. At the end of the day I try to reflect and ask myself..."Would I have wanted my own child to have me as a teacher today?" Thanks for your wonderful food for thought each Saturday!
ReplyDeleteJenny
Owl Things First
Jenny, I love that question even though I don't have my own children. That's perfect!
DeleteI love this! Thank you for finding it. I tend to jump around in jobs unlike most of the teacher bloggers around these parts. I've only been teaching for a few years because I worked at non-profits most of my life. However, I am just what I think it is important, a lifelong learner. I hope to be passionate about education, children, and books when I'm 93 years old.
ReplyDeleteKimberley, I can't ever see you not learning and pushing yourself to be better no matter what you put your hand to!
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