How to Survive Student Teaching

Intro: Student teaching can be a very stressful thought for education majors.  After three and a half semesters of hard work and training, it can be scary to walk into a classroom and take over.  There are several things that a student teacher can do to make sure that her experience is successful.

Step one: Do some research on the school that you have been placed in.  Most schools have websites where you can find information on the school and the teachers.  It's always a good idea to take a look at your cooperating teacher's link so that you can get a feel for him or her before walking into their classroom.

Step two: Make yourself an asset to the classroom.  It can be awkward trying to figure out what you can do to help your cooperating teacher, but make sure to ask and make yourself needed.  Sometimes it is hard for the cooperating teacher to ask things of you because they are used to doing things on their own.  If your cooperating teacher can't think of something for you to do, make suggestions like "Can I make those copies for you?"

Step three: Get your work done early.  You are going to have a lot of work to do during student teaching.  Most universities will make you do a lot of formal lesson plans, reflections, and other various projects during student teaching.  Make sure that you get your work done early so that you don't have too much stress at the end of the semester. 

Step four: Invite the school administrators into your classroom during your solo teaching.  Many times student teachers will get hired in the school they student teach in.  If you invite the administrators in to watch you teach, they will have a good feel for your ability and teaching style.  This could really help you land a job,

Step five: Let your cooperating teacher know how much you appreciate what they've done for you.  Having a student teacher can be stressful for a cooperating teacher.  It adds on to their already full work load.  At the end of the semester give them a card and a gift.  It is important to have a strong relationship with them because you will need a good recommendation from them.  Giving them a token of your appreciation could give you some bonus points on the reference form!

Tips: Have fun with your students.  They are the reason you are becoming a teacher.  Don't try to be their friend, but do let them know that you care about them. It might be a good idea to get them a little gift for your last day of teaching.

Comments (2)

ladym33 said:

	... I am sure that is very challenging. Excellent advice!
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April 25, 2010
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Bailey4 said:

	... I have been on both sides of that fence and you covered the details very well. 5*
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May 03, 2010
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