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Tips on a Successful Student Teaching Experience

If you're just starting off as a student teacher, the chances are that you'll feel daunted by the prospect of standing in front of a class of kids, not to mention the watchful eye of the regular teacher whose class you're taking. All teachers began as students once, however, so be reassured that you can succeed; following a few tips can help you on your way to a relatively painless first few months in teaching.
  1. Follow Your Mentor

    • Your cooperating teacher is there to help you out by passing on the secrets of the profession, so don't ignore him. In fact, seek out your cooperating teacher's advice as often as possible, and try to observe this mentor wherever possible. You might be able to watch a parent and teacher conference, for example, and take notes, or watch your mentor during her own lessons.

    Innovate

    • Your cooperative teacher may have thoughts on how you should teach, but remember that you're establishing your own individual style of teaching. Listen to criticism, but also be creative and try to incorporate your own ideas into how you teach wherever possible. Eventually, if your idea works well, even an especially critical mentor will respect you. You can draw on anything you've been taught or learned yourself to aid you in crafting interesting lessons.

    Meet Mentor Beforehand

    • Your cooperating teacher is going to be a major part of your life as a student teacher, and you can make the experience more stimulating and helpful by starting off on the right foot. Explain your expectations to your mentor, and establish what she's looking from you. You may want to consider meeting before your first day. This will help calm your nerves, and you'll also feel much more organized. You'll find out details ahead of time, such as any special student requirements to be aware of.

    Communication

    • You'll spend much of your school day communicating information with the children in your class, but don't forget that communication can be two-way. In fact, you may learn to value the opinions of the kids you teach, who can give you feedback on what you did right and wrong in your lessons. Open communication encourages honesty and connections between teachers and pupils.

    Introductions

    • Before the school year even starts, consider introducing yourself formally to both your upcoming class and each child's parents. The best way to do this is through a concise but factual letter, which outlines a bit about you and your personality, and a little about your background. Doing this will help ease you into your new role, and hopefully make kids and parents feel more comfortable about approaching you.

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