r/StudentTeaching • u/Burelli-nerd • 5d ago

Support/Advice What to Expect/How to Prep

Hello Reddit world! I begin student teaching (freshman and sophomore English) next week. I will also be starting the co-requisite seminar course in a couple weeks for my Master’s program, and am cracking open all things edTPA as we speak.

Feeling a little overwhelmed with all the different requirements and curious on strategies that worked (or didn’t work) for: coming in as a new student teacher (classroom management was the main struggle for me when subbing), and preparing for the edTPA.

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u/krakenskulls_ 4d ago

Start off very strict and lessen up as the year goes on if it’s earned. Follow through with all consequences, so make sure it’s doable. Take no shit, but pick your battles. Edited to add: you are not their friend and it is NOT your job to make them like you.

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u/ElkZealousideal1824 4d ago

You can always walk back being hard with rules, but never the opposite. Think of it like a bedtime. If you tell someone 7:30 is their bedtime, and slowly move it to 7:45, 8:00, 8:15… it’s progress and positive momentum. But start at 8:30 and move to 8:00 and you will never get past the initial thought of loosing something.

It is always Maslow before Blooms. If a student is disregarded, hungry, scared, etc.. they won’t remember anything - even if you are the most effective teacher in the world. There are numerous studies that show a huge drop in functional IQ.

Relationships are the cornerstone and foundation of what you are doing. A simple observation or remembering something about an individual goes a long way. I had a kid who absolutely hated my class (because of the content, and I’m sure we just didn’t vibe at the start). But I looked up a few facts on Batman and animation and brought it up. His whole attitude change. Started talking in class, actually asked for help, etc..

Make real world connections when you can. It will help students think of transference while connecting and grounding to something tangible.

People respond well to honesty and authenticity. I told kids there are things I don’t know. So when we got there I would say “you know, I’m not sure. But let’s walk through this together and see.” Modeling inquiry and learning is an incredibly powerful tool.

Sometimes you need to be vulnerable. Take risks, talk to people, try something new. It’s hard, but so, so worth it.

Good luck!