21 November 2007

Collective thoughts

Term 3
This was a successful term, however I often felt a bit 'on the back foot'.  I suspect that this mostly comes down to unit planning lacking a bit.  Between the overall syndicate planning/aims, and my daily planning - it's the unit plan that, when clear and prepared well, helps to work towards supporting the students' learning with engaging experiences.  This worked well in terms 1 and 2, but I noticed the difficulties arise in term 3.

One other aspect of 'thin' planning is the side affects being issues of behaviour management. Students still work better when routines are consistent, and learning foci are clear.

Term 4
EOTC - 1st four weeks saw senior classes mixed up so all year 5s were in one class.  This was a good period of time.  Interesting to see the different dynamics of a different social mix.  Also, the general maturity differences between year 5 and year 6 became quite evident.  This was good to note, as I am more aware now of differences between these ages when my regular class comes back together.

Report Writing - in the process of this now.  At this point I can see where strengths and weaknesses are in my assessment of different areas of learning, and looking to next year how I may try to 'marry up'  different aspects of subject assessment to avoid double-up of data collection (or gaps in data).  I have collected/viewed some other teachers'  assessment records to use and adapt for next year.

03 November 2007

I'm growing a Moustache for 'Movember'

During Movember (the month formerly known as November) I'll be growin a Mo. That's right I'm bringing the Mo back because I'm passionate about men's health and the fight against prostate cancer.

To sponsor my Mo please click here...
[SPONSOR ROB ASHCROFT]
and then choose [SPONSOR ROB ASHCROFT] again from the Movember website