I am a first year teacher at Louis Riel School. My goal is to find inspiration in science, and weave it into as many areas of the curriculum as possible. One unit intimidated me more than the rest. Robotics. I felt I was in way over my head. Growing up, I rarely played with lego sets, computer programs or video games, instead preferring to dress up and stage theatre productions. I felt bewildered by the idea of students building and programming robots. How could I possibly teach this unit when I was already feeling overwhelmed with the most basic of robotic concepts?
Nonetheless, with a good deal of apprehension, and as much confidence and knowledge as I could muster, I introduced the robotics unit. I braced myself for the chaos that would surely arise and the insufficient responses I would inevitably end up giving to my students. They began to work and I waited, a knot in my stomach. To my surprise, 23 students did not rush up to me baffled and confused. Rather, as as I wandered around the classroom I sensed deep engagement. I observed in awe as each group worked together, discussed issues, resolved disagreements and navigated the computer and programming system. I began asking my little scientists questions; suddenly, I was the student and they were the teachers.
Nonetheless, with a good deal of apprehension, and as much confidence and knowledge as I could muster, I introduced the robotics unit. I braced myself for the chaos that would surely arise and the insufficient responses I would inevitably end up giving to my students. They began to work and I waited, a knot in my stomach. To my surprise, 23 students did not rush up to me baffled and confused. Rather, as as I wandered around the classroom I sensed deep engagement. I observed in awe as each group worked together, discussed issues, resolved disagreements and navigated the computer and programming system. I began asking my little scientists questions; suddenly, I was the student and they were the teachers.
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Today I learned there is never one teacher in the classroom with 23 students. We have one tall teacher and 23 small teachers. My students teach me everyday about curiosity, friendship, frustration, and perseverance. They take my fears and turn them into passions and we learn and build together. Welcome to grade 3/4. Class size 0, teachers 24!
Madeline Anderson (@msanderson7) first year grade 3 /4 teacher. Learning everyday with the guidance of my little scientists as we navigate this amazing adventure.
Madeline Anderson (@msanderson7) first year grade 3 /4 teacher. Learning everyday with the guidance of my little scientists as we navigate this amazing adventure.
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