Today, the first day of the last week of school for my 5th graders, went great! The 5th graders are just as "energetic" as I imagined, but they did a pretty good job today. We told them that we understand that it's the end, but that it also means that it's their last chance to prove to us that they're ready for middle school. This seemed to be a great strategy. They participated, remained relatively focused, and accomplished everything they needed to.
My fourth graders, are amazing. They worked so hard today! I got to teach a full Spelling lesson which was so fun. I found myself wishing we had more time because we were all having so much fun with it. My cooperating teacher and I discussed the lesson and decided to come back to do more with it later on in the week. The students love Spelling because we get to play all kinds of games. It's so fun to see them excited about their homework/in-class work when it comes to material that I've taught. They just get so pumped to show me what they know, they're not afraid to ask questions, and they work so hard.
In lieu of it being the end of the school year, and seeing my cooperating teacher gradually becoming more and more overwhelmed with the increased workload and approaching deadline, I have decided to take on a big project to prepare for 5th grade graduation. I have been working on the project for a couple of weeks and I am so excited to see the finished product! What I'm doing is creating a portfolio of sorts for each student. The cover is made up of their name, a characteristic that describes them, and words of encouragement. Then on the first page, I have collected and put together their yearbook pictures from every year they have attended the school. Next is a compilation of their best work from each grade level. The parents will be able to see their students' growth and I can imagine that it will be pretty powerful. I can't wait to hear about how the portfolios are received. They did this last year and said that the parents and students were so moved.
As my time student teaching is coming to an end in a few short weeks, I am finding myself trying to take advantage of any and all opportunities that exist. It's nice to still have the motivation and drive to keep going. Don't get me wrong, some days are a lot harder than others. But my students are just so motivating. When my students understand a concept I have taught, and they are excited to share what they know, it affirms to me that I am in the right profession. I am so happy. :)
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