Monday, July 20, 2015

2nd Observation-Writing

                                                                                                                                                            
Lesson Topic: Nouns vs. Verbs-Writing Lesson
I taught a lesson about the different types of nouns and how nouns are different from verbs.  The pre-assessment for the lesson was identifying nouns versus verbs.  I gave each student seven index cards with various verbs, proper nouns, and common nouns.  Each student was then asked to deposit each of their index cards in labeled brown lunch baggies.  We then went over if the index cards in the bags were correct.  For the mini-lesson, I offered definitions of verbs, common nouns, and proper nouns.  Students also offered examples of each type.  The students then completed a noun versus verb worksheet, and we went over the answers as a class.  Lastly, the students were given five blank sticky notes and were asked to create their own examples of verbs, proper nouns, and common nouns.  After completing this exercise, the sticky notes were given to another student where they had to distinguish among verbs, proper nouns, and common nouns.  This was done on the white board.  A discussion followed.                                                     
Date Taught: Monday, July 20, 2015

What went well: I think that students understood the difference between a proper noun and common noun very well.  They even provided examples very willingly without much prodding.  There was great participation throughout the lesson, and it appeared that the students were pretty engaged.  I am glad that I added kinesthetic activities during the lesson in order to keep engagement up.  Two out of the five students present earned a 100% on the lesson closure; whereas the other three students scored an 80% on the lesson closure.  Since the goal was for 80% accuracy, all five students met this goal. 


What did not go as planned: There were two students who were absent, so I had to give students more index cards than originally intended.  Some of my students also seemed a little riled up, probably because we had just gotten back from our break.  Additionally, some students seemed a little confused when we changed gears from the different types of nouns to distinguishing nouns from verbs.  As a result of my co-teacher’s redirection, students were able to get back on track. 



How to change for subsequent lessons: I hope to incorporate even more kinesthetic strategies to keep my students engaged in subsequent lessons.  I also need to do a better job of arranging and organizing my lessons in order to decrease the likelihood of student confusion.

9 comments:

  1. I enjoyed today's lesson. I think the index cards and paper bags were a hit! The students seemed to really enjoy your lesson.

    ReplyDelete
  2. I really enjoyed your lesson on yesterday! All students were engaged and understood the difference between a common noun, proper noun, and verb. I also liked the different instructional strategies you used throughout your lesson.

    ReplyDelete
  3. I understand how it feels to have an absent student it makes me feel like I want to go back and reteach.

    ReplyDelete
  4. I love ending lessons with sticky note thoughts! These informal assessments are an awesome way to gauge student understanding. Parts of speech is always a challenge to teach- but it seems like this lesson went well for you! Keep up the good work.

    ReplyDelete
  5. It is crazy how as teachers we have to strategically think about when we are teaching certain things because of breaks, and other distracting things going on. I think yall do a great job of engaging them and trying to meet all their needs.

    ReplyDelete
  6. This is super cute!! I would never have thought to use paper bags this way. I can tell that you and Katrina make a great team!! I am so glad that you guys are in my cohort. I have learned so much from the two of you!!

    ReplyDelete
  7. Elizabeth,
    Cut yourself some slack! This is an awesome lesson. You did a wonderful job of modeling the gradual release of responsibility. I like how you had multiple opportunities for assessment--especially the brown baggies and partner activity. I've noted within my own pedagogy that the more transitions I use, though connected, the better my lessons and student engagement are. Great job!

    ReplyDelete
  8. Elizabeth,

    I really loved your lesson idea. I feel it is applicable across a variety of ages. I liked the use of pre assessment and how you shaped your learning goals for the lesson based on the results. I am so glad to hear five of your students met your goal. That is certainly a success in my book! I know you were worried about teaching lessons outside social studies, but in reading your blogs, I certainly deserve to give yourself ore credit. You are a great teacher regardless of subject area. I also loved the Baggie and post it notes as assessment measures. Keep up the great work!
    My best,
    Jamie

    ReplyDelete
  9. Sorry for my typo. It should read "you certainly deserve to give yourself more credit."

    ReplyDelete