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This week I interviewed a first grade teacher at Railway Elementary. Some things we discussed in the interview were; how to introduce new concepts to students, teaching methods, and how to best reach english learners. We also discussed how to address challenges in the classroom and how to keep the classroom fun.

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Strategies for Introducing New Concepts

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Strategies for Introducing New Concepts

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One way to teach new concepts is by using total body engagement. This includes dancing, memorable hand gestures and tapping out words. Other strategies include specific attention getters, engagement call back and think pair share. English learners benefit from explanation of vocabulary, pictures, and discussion with peers. Including plenty of explanatory picture posters throughout the classroom.

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Educators assess students formally, and informally in many different ways. For example informal assessment can occur during a mock spelling test where students write spelling words on a white board. Formal assessments can be done during a test or graded assignment. The teacher also explained that when she takes informal assessments she uses the data to build small groups.

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One way this educator modifies is by creating small groups of students based on academic levels. Different groups have different activities to work on based on their needs. She uses manipulatives and full body engagement. Most of the modification occurs during small groups.

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How to Fill the Gap when Students Display an Inability to Learn A New Concept

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How to Fill the Gap when Students Display an Inability to Learn A New Concept

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Assess the gap and find out which foundational skill is missing. It is necessary to backtrack to find out what step was missed. Then an educator can develop a plan to get the student back on track. Essential learning happens during small group time because each group is sorted based on their understanding of current concepts and academic levels.

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How Important is Confidence when Teaching?

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How Important is Confidence when Teaching?

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An educator's confidence is very important, but it comes with time. According to the educator I interviewed, the most important thing is that the students feel confident. The students must feel confident participating, and joining in. This particular educator allows students to take over as "teacher" sometimes to help build confidence and as an informal assessment. She explained that students feel more confident when they have fun in their classroom.

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Redirection, consistency, and calm positive reinforcement. An educator must set clear and consistent boundaries and consequences. However, an educator must also have reward systems in place and consistently utilize them. This educator also advised that calling out good behavior can also redirect students engaging in unwanted behavior.

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How to Enhance Student Learning in a Safe and Fun Environment

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How to Enhance Student Learning in a Safe and Fun Environment

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The educator explained that giving students something hands on to look forward to keeps the classroom fun and keeps students engaged. For example a fun Friday craft or science experiment that relates to that week's learning. Some examples the teacher shared is flubber or planting something. It should tie in to that week's learning and create a lasting memory.

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One thing I learned is that as an educator, formal and informal assessments are important and small groups allow students to really progres . Secondly, I learned that students may engage in unwanted behaviors from time to time. However, with clear boundaries and consequences these unwanted behaviors can be remedied quickly. Additionally, it is important to focus on positive behaviors  in the classroom. Finally, students thrive in an environment they are comfortable and confident in.