Classroom basics for pre-service teachers

Pre-service teachers are students who are under the supervised guidance of a cooperating teacher and gradually introduced into a teaching role. Her are some basic guidelines for you to follow to help you get the most out of your supervised training:

• Student teachers should act accordingly, as you are a guest in the supervising teacher’s classroom.
• Having a positive attitude will make a difference to all you are in contact with – students, other teachers, administration and parents.
• Student teachers should observe the cooperating teacher – remember that you will never know everything,  and if you don’t understand something, ask for an explanation.
• Pre-Service teachers are professionals – in punctuality, in your choice of attire, your demeanor – schools are typically conservative.
• Watch what you say and to whom– be respectful, and don’t gossip.
• Students please plan ahead and be prepared. You can’t be too prepared, so have a “Plan B”.
• Every day may not be “ideal”.  Preservice teachers will learn and grow from ALL of their experiences, good and the ones that “never seem to end”.
• Teaching can be the most rewarding and most challenging career around, and its tough work.
• Not only do the classroom students need to listen, so do you. Always try your best to develop a good relationship with your cooperating teachers, other instructors, parents, students and staff.
• If you goof, which everyone does, apologize quickly – everyone has a bad day and makes mistakes.

COE Instructors Give Their Most Important Tips

“Learn to be a sponge and observe as many teachers that you are able. Take note of quality teaching techniques and skills to adopt for your own classroom. Once you enter the profession, your opportunities to observe other teachers diminishes.  Remember, copying is the best form of flattery.”

–  Jennifer Lechner

“Read through all directions carefully. Ask for help if you don’t know how to do something.”

–  Melissa McAllister

“Dress for the job that you want, not the one you have. You’re not ‘one of them’ yet! Someone said ‘Good teachers borrow – great teachers steal.’

–  Cher Gauweiller

“Join a professional organization and get as involved as possible. Also, create a support system (at least one who can serve as a mentor).”

– Andrea Kelly

“Notice what you want to increase.  ‘Walk, please.’  vs ‘Stop running!’ Tell students what TO DO rather than talking about what they are doing wrong.  Whatever you are giving attention to will increase; be sure you are paying attention to positive behaviors or describing positive behaviors.  This simple strategy can change the tone of your room!  The students will be clear about what is expected and the teacher will spend more time on positives rather than on negatives.”

– Sue Blanchard