Practicum:

     Recently, I have had the opportunity to teach at Moravian Falls Elementary in Wilkes County. For my practicum, I was assigned to Ms. Redding's first grade class. I was in the classroom every Tuesday and Thursday from 8:00AM until 2:00PM. My internship started March 20, 2007 and ended April 19, 2007.

     As a college student, I was required to complete numerous tasks throughout my visit at Moravian Falls. I had to create a small group math lesson, teach it, and reflect on it. I also had to complete two case studies with two different students. I was required to conduct an interview and survey about children's views on technology. I also helped assess a first grade child through an Early Reading Screening inventory. In addition, I tested approximately twenty fifth grade students through a Word Knowledge Inventory. Ms. Redding also had assigned tasks that she needed me to accomplish. Some of my responsibilities in the classroom were as followed: making bulletin boards, assisting a center in literacy centers, one-on-one tutoring with students, reading aloud to a whole class, helping organize a spring party. I was also pulled to help a physical education teacher with student physical fitness tests.

     As an intern, I believe that my duty was to help Ms. Redding in any way possible. I feel that all teachers could use that extra helping hand. Furthermore, another colleague named Nicole Little was also assigned to Ms. Redding's class in order to complete her practicum.

     I have truly enjoyed my time that I have spent in this classroom. I am not looking forward to saying my "goodbyes" to all of the children on Thursday, April 19th. I know that I will always hold a special place in my heart for the children I have met through Block I. I have learned so much through this teaching experience. I will never forget the laughs and smiles of Ms. Redding's first grade class!