Lesson plans . . . By Lainy

You really should not expect a teacher to leave a note on "how to handle the class;" this is something that comes with experience and also a bit of common sense. I often find the note that is left concerning the so-called "bad" students to keep on eye on completely useless as they often turn out to be the most well-behaved for me and the so-called "good" students are the ones to look out for.

As far a the spelling test, each student should have been able to tell you what the words for the week were. If they said they didn't know I would wager they were just trying to get out of taking the test. It's not unusual for a teacher to not leave the words in an easily accessible place.

Take it for what it worth, but I never listen to what the children tell me is allowed by their teacher. You'll have every other student telling you something different that you won't know who to believe or what to do. They just love pulling one over on the sub. You need to ignore all of the "our teacher let's us . . . " and "our teacher doesn't do it that way" and do what "you" think is appropriate. You need to "feel the class out," so to speak...

This is not, in any way meant to offend you, but you sound young and inexperienced. A teacher should not ever have to instruct you in writing or verbally as to when you should jump in and help students with an assignment. This, again is common sense . . . and experience in some cases.
Don't ever assume that children can figure things out for themselves; you don't know any of their physical, emotional, academic, etcetera strengths and/or weaknesses. You need to make yourself available to every student.

No one can tell you how the class is "suppose to go." How the day will go will depend largely on you.

I think the children didn't "mind" you because they could see that you were uncertain/uncomfortable. I would suggest that you come to your assigned classes earlier in the morning than you are scheduled to be there so that you can review the plans, plan book, look for materials, make photocopies, etcetera. In time you will find yourself needing to do this less and less, as you become for confident with the age/grade level. I wouldn't tell you that any particular grade/age level is easy or difficult . . . each group (class) is going to be different from the next. Some 3rd grade classes can be horrid while others will be your dream class.

There are a lot of good techniques on behavior management. You should scroll through this board and you'll find some good ideas . . .it would take me too long to explain them in detail, but look for "secret student," "class letter," "3 stars," and more. There are a lot of great ideas floating around out there.

From what you wrote I would advise against middle school. Middle school is often the toughest ages in many areas. I think they'd eat you alive, no offense, truly.

I hope this has helped and that I didn't offend you in any way.

Good luck!

Lainy