In the past 4 weeks of my student teaching time I have been amazed at the stories that veteran teachers can add into their lessons. No matter what the topic, no matter what the lesson, these teachers can share a story that is relevant to the local area and entertaining as well as educational!
As a young pre-service teacher always knowing what story to tell (or even having a story to tell) is difficult at times. The important thing is to avoid comparing yourself to these legendary teachers. Just think, everyone has some stories and the only way to build our story bank is by having experiences that we can add to the bank.
So get out there, do things, gain more stories that are relevant and educational so that you can share them with your students. Never be discouraged just because at this moment you don't feel as story worthy as the teachers you have observed. We are young! We are beginners! We are novices! We have time to grow!
To the current student teachers, aka #PSUAgEd18 believe me when I say this, our cooperating teachers are master story tellers which can add to our story bank. So pay close attention and soak up their stories like a sponge. Take advantage of being in the presence of excellence by using our observation time to the fullest!
#BuildThatBank
Angie, the ability to be a successful storyteller can be an asset to connecting with students and taking lessons from drab to fab. Teachers don't just become master storytellers overnight, and spend many hours honing their craft through observation and reflection. What do you plan to do to record your stories to share them in the future?
ReplyDeleteAg teachers are always a sponge. People watching, reading current ag industry news, talking to friends in the community and teacher colleagues. As we share stories it is always critical not to turn it in to gossip sharing or name dropping in funny stories which could have a negative impact on a student.
ReplyDeleteOur workshop at Longwood Gardens on Friday added many new stories to my 33 year old teacher tool box and to Angie's new toolbox.
Well stated.
ReplyDeleteI also love the nomenclature for naming these blogs - good job and I have highlighted it as a best practice.
I suggest "notating" stories connected to content in lesson plans to assist in the future