I have successfully completed my first week of TESOL Practicum at KJHS. For reference, my weekly schedule is as follows:
Monday 7:45-9:27
Wednesday 7:45-9:27
Friday 7:45-12:27
Some background information about the setting and population of the junior high is necessary in order to understand the context that I am working in. The school enrolls a total of 1,008 students. The demographics of KJHS are 67.8% White, 13.7% Black, 6.2% multi-racial, 5.8% Asian, 5.1% Hispanic, and 0.7% Native American. There is also a 25.4% low income rate, 3.6% limited English proficient, and 14% with IEPs.
With its ethnic and language diversity, KJHS is a great place to be placed in for practicum. On Mondays and Wednesdays, the two class periods that I observe are small--only two 11 year old students. Both students are native Spanish students and are in the basic class. These 2 students are also in the section of math that is co-taught by Mrs Collins. The techniques and methods that I see being practiced in the classroom are excellent ways to scaffold the students. Since they are at the beginning level, Mrs. Collins often gives instructions and clarifications to the students in Spanish but often encourages English. Although I have not observed for many weeks in succession yet, Mrs. Collins seems to focus strongly on communicative techniques in what she is teaching. For teaching a lesson on pronouns, she had each student practice using them in sentences by taking turns asking questions and responding. I think that once I have been observing for a few more weeks in succession, I will be able to get a better grasp on the teaching style and techniques being utilized in the classroom.
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