Orianne
Undergraduate
Elementary Education |
Orianne
Undergraduate
Elementary Education |
The IB curriculum has introduced me to a new teaching approach that keeps students engaged and allows them to be creative. I've witnessed firsthand the benefits of this curriculum. It fosters collaboration among students, building their confidence and teaching them teamwork. My enjoyment of teaching has grown as my students show an interest in learning and developing their own learning styles. Learning to let students lead the class was challenging, but it reminded me to trust in their abilities without the need for constant lecturing. The IB experience has been enlightening; I've noticed a lack of group projects and student-led activities in many classes that I have observed in the past. In contrast, my previous classrooms felt more hurried throughout my lessons, and I did not feel proud of my lesson. Miss. Monica has given me the opportunity to let the class flow and see what it is like when a class is not always on a time sensitive. The students tend to be proud of their work and become more involved. Interestingly, I feel that I've learned more from my class than I've taught them. Miss Monica's teaching style emphasizes encouraging children to ask questions and ensuring they know their inquiries are always welcome.
During my teaching, we explored the Production unit. It's been a fascinating and stimulating topic for the students, as it unleashes their creativity. They've been ecstatic about inventing their own products and guiding them through this process has been an extraordinary experience! Grade 5 began by watching Shark Tank to grasp our objective: to devise an invention through numerous steps. Initially, each student brainstormed four ideas, selected their favorite, and then crafted clay mockups. Following the mockups, we moved on to designing poster ads, commercials, and logos. Miss Monica and I presented actual commercials to demonstrate their appeal to consumers. The students recognized the significance of color in advertising and how it can make a product seem like a dream come true. This unit was immensely enjoyable, as it allowed Miss Monica and me to unlock the students' creative potential without limits. Their eagerness to assist one another and come up with outstanding ideas was truly inspiring. The enthusiasm for creating commercials was visible, with students actively participating and supporting each other's projects. At the end of the unit Miss Monica invited the grade 4 and grade 6 to come to the class and see the student exhibition's students took their work serious trying to sell their products. It seemed as if we were really in a market. Their ingenuity and collaborative spirit have been remarkable. Miss Monica's teaching approach has always been impressive, fostering an environment where the children are free to innovate and brainstorm without restraint. P.S. I've mentioned this before, but I truly have the best class! Recently, Miss Monica and the class planted sunflower seeds and discovered that plants enjoy classical music. So, naturally, the grade 5 suggested we play classical music while planting and watering the seeds. They are such a caring and wonderful group! It saddens me deeply to have to leave them. Arriving in Siena, I was quite nervous, but Miss Monica and the class welcomed me with literal open arms. I've never felt so appreciated and eager to help as much as possible. :)
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Who would have thought I'd be spending my first spring break away from New York, alone in Italy! Initially, I had plans to visit my uncle in Switzerland, but when those plans fell through, I had to quickly devise a new plan. I decided for my spring break to travel to the beautiful country where I'll be studying abroad. It was my first time traveling solo, making bookings, and planning on my own. Honestly, I was frightened and unsure about managing it all. I began researching and deciding where to stay and what to visit. I must acknowledge my family and friends who usually handled trip arrangements; now it was my turn, and it's quite the task. My family supported my decision to take this solo journey and offered valuable advice. Their encouragement eased my anxiety and affirmed that venturing out alone during my spring break was the right step.
In Rome, the museums were incredible; the Borghese Gallery visit left me in awe, each statue telling its own story. On my final day in Rome, venturing into the Vatican Museum was an adventure in itself. I spent approximately four and a half hours immersed in history, my neck aching from gazing up at the ceilings and walls. It was hard to fathom being in a space with such vast history. Occasionally, I had to step back to fully absorb the art and history before me. Rome was enchanting, and I'm thrilled it was my first solo travel destination. Additionally, I traveled to Naples and Pompeii, where Dr. Renzoni's guidance in finding a tour was helpful. Being in one of the world's most historic cities meant everything to me. My tour group was heartwarming; we dined together in Naples and ascended the volcano. This trip was extraordinary, and I'm still in disbelief that I experienced it. After my four days in Roma, I traveled to Firenze. Since I have already been to Firenze with my cohort I decided to rest, which was very needed. A few of the girls and I decided to book an Airbnb together since we were all ending our spring breaks in Firenze. We also decided to go on a wine tour together as well as our last hoorah. Which was the perfect way to end our spring break. I must say, for this being my first solo trip, I am quite proud of myself. Proud that I wasn't afraid to take on the world and make the most of it. I'm proud for stepping out of my comfort zone constantly—haha, but it was definitely worth it. In Rome, at my hostel, I met new people every day. My roommates and I hit it off and even went out together a few times. They were from Chile and Argentina, and we exchanged stories about our homelands. Interestingly, one of the girls was also traveling alone for the first time. It seemed like fate for us to meet. March 21, 2024
Today marked my inaugural day of teaching at Siena International School, and these initial days have been unlike any other. I'm somewhat nervous because I desire to always harbor these feelings. The journey, the teaching, visiting new schools, meeting new students and educators—it's all exhilarating. Uncertain of what awaited me, I entered the school only to find that my first two days have been incredibly refreshing. The students are exceptional—intelligent and mutually respectful. On my first day, they sang a song about unity and raising their voices together. Overwhelmed with emotion, I found myself crying because they were all so resilient, setting aside their individual troubles to unite in song. Never before have I teared up on the first day at a school, witnessing something new to me. Having visited numerous schools, I've always encountered diverse and wondrous sights. But this time, it was as if my heartstrings were being tugged. It served as a poignant reminder of why I pursued teaching, why I cherish the school environment. I yearn to cling to this sentiment for as long as possible. My teacher is truly amazing and an inspiration! She has led a remarkable life, and I'm excited to see where she goes next. Her teaching style is phenomenal! She's patient with her students, allowing them to make choices and have a voice. Today, I felt proud of my teaching. Though the lesson was on neurodiversity, I managed to include my father's painting, which really engaged the students and enhanced their learning. It was incredibly fun. Watching them be creative without the pressure of a time limit was also rewarding. This is an experience I'll always remember. I'm proud of myself! I realize not every lesson will be like this, but I'll cherish this day. I feel blessed every day to be on this journey. |
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