Blog Post # 9

At the End of Teaching 2009 – 2010

As a teacher we are never done learning. I think Mr. McLung can relate to this. During the year 2009 to 2010 he went from having to teach 6th grade to 8th grade. He said that he had to take on a new way of teaching. Eighth graders have more independence and have to be treated more like adults. He also had to teach new curriculum for history and science. He felt that he was successful when teaching science but had some difficulty with history. He had to do research to find how to make history current and fun. He also didn’t want his classroom discussions to be as scripted, the way most teachers try to plan them. He then faced the problem of kids not being able to state their thoughts. This means that Mr. McLung had to find a new way of teaching information. He doesn’t want his students thinking that that have to name a right answer, but that they can express their own opinion.
He gives advice to teachers who are new, that you should get to know the “school moms.” He says these are women that have been involved with the school for a long time and are helpful. Being a teacher is not an easy job. You have to give lectures everyday and are an influence to your audience. For this reason we must stay humble. Also we must present topics in an enthusiastic manner even if isn’t something we find to be interesting. We have to stay focused and not get caught up in control. At all times we must keep in mind what is most important. We want to give our students everything we have to offer. He had a successful year where he has learned many things about what it takes to be a great teacher. His journey is complete though as he realizes there is still a lot to learn!

At the End of Teaching 2010- 2011

This year would be his first to continue on at the same school for longer than one year. Once again he is not done learning and has gained a lot from the 2010 to 2011 school year. Teachers must always remember that the main focus of learning is the students. It is easy to get side tracked pleasing everyone, but our primary concern should be kids. Maintaining a positive attitude is important. Some ideas may be presented that you are fond of and others may not be. In this case you not let the lack of excitement from others effect you. We need to be aware of how much work we are doing for the student. If the student isn’t doing the work then they are not learning. Even if the work is difficult we must not do it for the student. “This means that our students will struggle a little bit in the front end but it will help them excel in the end game.” I’m sure that may teachers who have been teaching the same subject matter for a while have the tendency to get “comfortable.” He has found it helpful to join committees and picking up new tasks so that he doesn’t get caught in a routine. Getting comfortable can cause a lack of motivation. He believes education should be willing to exceed the eight to three work hours.

In such a short time Mr. McLung has learned so much. Every here he is picking up new skills that will benefit his students. He sets a good example for upcoming teachers.