To ease your fears

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To ease your fears
By Melanie

I just completed my student teaching last year and was just hired on as a grade two teacher this fall. I have a few pieces of advice to offer. First of all, don't be worried about the children disliking you. Students generally
are very excited to have a student-teacher in the classroom. Just show them that you respect them by treating them fairly, and valuing what THEY have to offer you. If children know that you respect them, they in turn will show you respect. Secondly, Even if you and your
co-op don't get along personality wise, or if you have completely different teaching styles, you can still

learn a ton from him/her. My
co-op was quite "old-school" (that's the only way I can think to describe her). My teaching style was a complete clash with hers. However, She still had a lot to offer me in the way of classroom management ideas, organization, and time management. I also learned that she had reasons for everything she did. Her methods were tried and tested. They worked really well for her. I don't think that teaching in one particular way makes a successful teacher. It is really about finding what works for you. If anything, you can find out what you DON'T want to do in your classroom. But don't be surprised if she manages to change your mind on some things. My last piece of advice is to become an asset to the school. Make them miss you when you leave. Start noon-hour clubs, put up school displays, organize school assemblies or celebrations, and just show some initiative. Believe me, it will pay off when you need to ask for references for those first job applications. Who knows, they might miss you so much that they decide to hire you next year. Good luck with your practicum!! Have fun and smile.