Jamie CO#3

Date/Time: Wednesday, August 31st, 1:00pm. 

Topic/Skill: Speaking 4A taught by Calyn Stringer 

Teacher Presentation:

Mrs. Stringer wrote objectives on the board as class began, then led a warm up using a pronunciation worksheet that covered vowel sound contrasts. As the students worked, she and I provided native pronunciation and assistance with questions. She allowed the class time to work through issues on their own, yet made herself available to see if help was needed. Afterward, students individually read an article and discussed obscure idioms and phrases. Finally, Mrs. Stringer led the class to the lounge for some group debate over the points in the article in a comfortable, conversational atmosphere. 

Classroom Management:

Throughout class, Mrs. Stringer oscillated between giving students the independence to arrive at their own answers while staying aware of when direction was necessary. Her energetic and warm approach to teaching allowed students to feel comfortable seeking her counsel. Directions were given in a clear and concise manner, and vocabulary was covered in context. 

Materials:

Handout on vowel sound contrasts, handouts of the article to be discussed, white board and markers for covering vocabulary and objectives. 

Student Participation:

Students were encouraged to participate through partnered discussion, group debate, and questions/comments over their analysis of the article. 

Feedback Provided: 
Mrs. Stringer's feedback was very motivating and encouraging. She often asked students to share their input and was met with no shortage of volunteers. As needed, she initiated vocabulary corrections or explanations, and led the class in recitation on difficult sounds. She encouraged teamwork, provided context, concentrated on both speech and message, and encouraged intercommunication for added peer feedback. 

Lesson(s) on teaching you learned:

At this level students are motivated to put their English skills to use through group and partnered discussion. Therefore, it benefits them greatly to have an instructor like Mrs. Stringer who is adept at stepping into the role of coach when necessary, but who also knows when to allow them the independence to find answers on their own. I learned that one of the best methods of helping students to grow linguistically is to find a way to inspire organic conversation. Her time management, selection of an interesting material, and guidance toward self-motivation all created a very successful learning environment.