I'm still getting to know my children, but my initial impression is that they are not quite as enthusiastic as last years class. I hope to change that very quickly.
My one child identified as NZ Maori, Nikau, is shy and quiet. I know he made great progress last year, gaining confidence and self efficacy. I've been thinking of ways to help him continue to grow for this year. As my own knowledge increases, especially with all of the social/emotional reading I've been doing, I'm certain I shall come up with some super ideas!
Target Learners
Taylor Age 8:11
Reading Age 7.5
Writing Level 1A
Hayden Age 10:1 APD
Reading Age 9-9.5
Writing 3B
Nikau Age 9:11 NZ Maori
Reading Age 9.5
Maths Stage 5
Ben Age 9:8
Maths Stage E5
Micah Age 10:2
Maths Stage 5
Gema Age 10 ADHD
Reading Age 7
Writing Level 1A
Maths Stage E5
Tia Age 8.9 Emotional Issues
Writing 2B
Maths Stage E5
I'm so not liking those little labels next to their names, but I think they are necessary in this case, so that when I record certain behaviours or write about the progress they make throughout the year, it is clearly understood.
One thing that I have noticed is that they all seem quite relaxed and appear happy, which is nice. This impression was confirmed after Whanau Evening last Thursday night, when all of the parents who came in to chat mentioned how happy their children were in my class, and that they loved all of the art we do. We've only actually done one piece of art, so that was interesting! Perhaps they thought the maths we did was art?
I've got both Gema and Tia constantly trying to share my desk with me. I don't want to push them away as they are working and happy, but it's my space. I don't spend a large amount of time at my desk, but I don't like clutter and they have all of their things (books, felts, pencils etc) strewn across my desk. I'm going to have to bite my tongue for now, and maybe slowly ease them into working in their own spaces later. Maybe attachment issues? They want to be close? I don't know. But at least they are completing tasks, and willingly!
Hayden is another extremely quiet student, but I went WOW last week watching him solve a maths problem. He was meant to be working with a group, but he kind of went off on his own and solved the problem all by himself. The following day I asked if he would mind sharing his strategy with the class, and he did! He was like a different child, confident with his explanation and answering questions that the other children had. I was so impressed!
Of the seven Target Students, four go to Shelley for regular literacy sessions, and Tia has out of school tutoring and counselling. They are getting extra support.
My aspirations for not only these 7 target learners, but the entire class, is to get them excited about learning. I want to see at least the same level of enthusiasm from this class as my previous class! That is my first Term 1 goal 😉
