When I first started the internship I wasn’t 100% sure exactly what I was going to do or how I was going to do it. All I knew for sure is that I was going to get this amazing opportunity and find a way to incorporate it into my classroom. Once I got there and really dove in with my team, our goals became more clear. We decided that we were going to create three lesson plans using eMammal, but do it as a team.
In previous years, fellows had decided to create individual lesson plans, but we really liked the idea of taking one lesson plan and making it work for a variety of grade levels. I loved working with Nicole and Lena, it seemed like each day more amazing ideas would pop into our heads on how this would work for elementary and if we switched this it would work for middle school. I’ve never enjoyed working on a team more than I did with these two ladies. I swear the ideas just kept flowing and everyone was jumping in, making the lesson plans better each day.
My group experienced really made me think about how my kids must feel when I place them into a group. From the initial anxiety of “Oh no, I may have to do this all on my own” to delegating responsibility and finally a joyous high five when everything works out in the end. I really can’t wait to share with my kids this process to let them know I understand where they are coming from, but also to let them know how amazing a group can be. I’ve also decided to give them a chance to share their thoughts after a group project. Here’s to getting them to their own high five moments!
That’s awesome when you get those moments that give the student’s perspective!!!! I love being able to relate what it’s like for them so that I can adapt my teaching to better fit their needs. It really sounds like you were in an awesome group for you project! Glad the team effort was a great success!!