Artifacts and Characteristics of the Novice Teacher #2

The lesson that I am choosing to blog about meets Characteristic 2 which is that the novice teacher should be an effective communicator. The lesson that I formulated and taught within my second grade classroom was a math lesson where I integrated the creative arts. While teaching the students about line symmetry, I had them make symmetrical shapes using their bodies individually, partnering with their peers, through mirror imaging, and illustrations that relate to symmetrical figures with an emphasis on their bodies. This lesson meets the definition of Characteristic 2 because within this lesson the novice teacher is an effective communicator who expresses and receives ideas, messages or information through appropriate spoken, written, and non-verbal forms. This lesson communicates clearly with the teacher's work, students, as well as being able to share the elements from the lesson with colleagues, parents, and the community. This lesson opens many opportunities for the novice teacher due to the fact that being an effective communicator and implementing the fine arts into all content areas will help guide all students with a successful academic career.

Artifacts and Characteristics of the Novice Teacher #10

The artifact that I have choosen for Characteristic #10 is the Rainforest three week unit plan that I designed in Education 400. Characteristic #10 for the novice teacher follows the guidlines such as the novice teacher being liberally educated because it covers multiple content areas and integrates technology. This artifact could have fit in several other Characteristics for the Novice teacher; however, Characteristic #10 was the best match. This particular unit covered several content areas such as science, visual art, and reading and language arts. Also, this unit plan integrated technology as well.

The Amazon Rainforest Unit Plan was designed to gain an awareness of the Amazon Rainforest. It allows students to use reading, science, and artistic skills to learn, explore, and assess their knowledge of the Amazon Rainforest. This unit also provides students with a variety of skills such as reading, writing, graphing, map reading, drawing, peer communication, and whole group discussions.