Reflection #8 / Micro-teach Reflection 1

I finished my Micro-teach assignment last week and had mixed feelings about my perfor-
mance. I had a lot of cool ideas that kept the students engaged and interested in the subject
matter but I lacked clarity in my presentation. I tend to try to squeeze as much information as I
can into a lesson which can be a downfall. I reckon, this is because I become very engaged in
my topic and want to share everything I’ve learned. In comparing my micro- teach, and my in-
quiry project, to others, I can see the importance of balancing the load of information present-
ed. Knowing and understanding the goals of each class makes teaching easier, I lacked that
clarity with both of my projects. Consequently, I lacked a sense of direction, which influenced
my ability to check in for comprehension of the concept, and avoid rushing through the presen-
tation. Looking back, I would plan more specific goals for the class. With that being said, I am
undecided on whether classes should be subject specific or interdisciplinary. It is probable,
that because I was taught in a very interdisciplinary manner, in primary and middle school, that
I have an affection for lessons with an interdisciplinary focus. At the same time, interdisciplinary
focus causes me to bounce from subjects quickly like from the 5 senses to wind or from autism
to sex-based teaching. Hence, clarity before, during and after class are essential to my ability
to become a successful teacher.

A few things went wrong during my micro-teach, including my attempt to show that cold air
sinks, and my ability to instruct the students on how to build the pinwheel. The cold air experi-
ment was unfortunate, and mistakes do happen, but the important thing is my ability to recover
from unforeseen circumstances. I could have taken more time heating up the water bottle, en-
suring that the air inside the balloon was very hot before removing the blow dryer from under
the bottle. Unfortunately, I was nervous and I rushed.

Another issue I had with the micro-teach was giving clear instructions. I struggled to teach the
class how to build pinwheels. I think some of the struggle came from me wanting to make sure
the pinwheels looked good because I thought avoiding some folds make the flower of the pin-
wheel look nicer. I certainly could have been more clear in my instructions and will be next
time. I think pictures on the smart board would have been a good idea, and I will do that in the
future.

I’ve also observed a lot from watching the other presentations during class. What I’ve noticed
is that my mind wonders off very quickly. Many of the other students minds are the same and I
think I lacked that awareness when I was presenting. In general, I need to be more observant of
my students, understand that it is not easy to stay focused, take my time and breath.