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Pre-Teaching Practicum Notes

Translated from my Chinese transcript:

TP

• Number of teaching periods should be reasonable (16-20).


• Should assist in and observe CCA activities but not act as I/C.

TP Portfolio

• It should include lesson observation notes, self-reflection, comments from CTs and NSC, lesson plans and samples of marked assignments.

Observations in Week 1

• You can also request to observe classes by other teachers and in other subject areas. Take the initiative. These can help you in classroom management.


• Take observation notes and file them in your TP portfolio.

Lesson plans

• 5 detailed lesson plans per week. For TP purposes, one lesson plan should cover one period's worth of class. For consecutive periods, you can write 1 or 2 lesson plans, depending on the learning objectives for that class.


• Mail NSC the lesson plan at least a day before observation.


• Lesson plans are compulsory for observation periods.


• Lesson plans for other periods that fall outside the 5 are optional, subject to CT's requirements.


• Learning objectives: should be specific, measurable, clear and workable.


• Activities: should be relevant to learning objectives.


• Every lesson should have a clear introduction and conclusion.


• Attach to your lesson plan materials and resources that you will use.

Execution

• Note time management. Are you able to execute your lesson according to the schedule?


• You can include notes on foreseeable reactions from the students. Be prepared for contingencies such as equipment breakdown.


• Group work can be implemented as long as it is feasible and effective for the learning objectives defined. It has to be carried out tactfully. Details like the mechanics of grouping should be considered.


• Use differentiated instruction.


• Have activities that students will accept and which meet your objectives.


• Give clear instructions and use appropriate teacher talk. Note enunciation.


• Minimize interference. Use a portable mic if necessary.


• Use concrete classroom management measures, but discuss them first with your CT. Adopt his/her class rules for starters.

Observations

• NSC will observe best class and average class.

Tips

• Are students "naughty" in every class or only during Chinese?


• Establish your personal image. Use both the carrot and the stick.


• The students' interests should be your priority.


• Remember students' names, especially of "problem students."


• Use the Premack principle in conjunction with alternative teaching methods such as games and student-proposed activities like karaoke etc. You can also apply peer pressure this way to restrain aberrant students.


• Put your heart into your lessons and make your lesson vibrant.


• Be joyful and find satisfaction in your work. Don't let defeatism seep in.

Important notes!

• Send timetable to NSC and print a copy.


• Be present when NSC visits school to meet P, SCM and CT. (week of 23/6)


• 1st observation: 2nd week of July


• 2nd observation: August


• There will be a 1-2 week gap between the 1st and 2nd observation.


• Be proactive, humble, enthusiastic and willing to change.


• Evaluate yourself after each observation.