Grand Rounds Reflections

Shauna Brown
#1:
Mr. Weissman, Engineering Explorations
Approximate # of students in class: 20
Grade level of students: Freshman
1. This particular class takes place in a computer lab so the learning environment is different
than a normal classroom. There were a few aspects of the classroom and routines set up
by Mr. Weissman that made the class work really well. First of all, he addressed everyone
as a Mr. or Miss. Although this is a simple thing, I feel like it created a sense of respect
between the students and Mr. Weissman. He also had one students come to the front of
the class and go through every students name. This was at the beginning of the school
year, and at a time where they had recently met each other. I thought this was a great idea.
If all of your students at least know each others names, the environment of the class will
be much more inviting. There were many things I liked about Mr. Weissmans routines
and environment of his class, but these two things stuck out to me in particular.
2. In this class students were using a computer program to design models to be printed on
the 3-D printer. Mr. Weissman was using demonstration and direct skill instructional
strategies. He would work through a design or strategy on his computer, showing the
students what to do first. Then students were able to use these skills on their own. There
will be many instances where I will be using similar instructional strategies in my classes,
especially in the shop.
3. The instructional strategy was differentiated to meet the needs of each students by giving
students a variety of tasks, and letting them work at their own pace. Mr. Weissman
expected students to get to a specific step in their projects, but for the students that
worked fast, they were able to move passed this step. I think it is important for me to
have large projects planned far enough ahead of time, to allow for students to move ahead
when they are ready.
4. As mentioned above, Mr. Weissman does a great job of establishing respect in his
classroom and these routines help build relationships as well. In addition to referring to
students as Mr. and Miss, Mr. Weissman did a nice job of moving around the room and
working with students on an individual basis. There are simple things that can be done in
order to build relationships with students. Mr. Weissman does this well.
5. I really enjoyed working in this class and think the Engineering Exploration class is
awesome! I think its great Poudre has classes like this that are somewhat career focused
and gets students thinking about their futures at a young age in high school.

#2
Mr. Knight, Chemistry
Approximate number of students in class: 25
Grade level: mostly Juniors
1. The classroom in which Mr. Knight teaches chemistry is large classroom and is laid out
different than a typical class room. Students sat at table groups around the room. Mr.
Knight allows students to choose their own seats, so naturally groups of like students end
up sitting together. The class was well behaved and definitely respected Mr. Knight. I
loved the way Mr. Knight started his class, as he does every Tuesday, by playing a game
of trivia. He began by asking students questions, and then they got to ask him questions.
This was a great way to start the class because every student was engaged, it set up a
routine, and everyone loves some friendly competition. It was fun to see the students try
to beat Mr. Knight .
2. One of the instructional strategies Mr. Knight used during class, that I had never seen
before, was having students go through a power point he created by themselves. They
were filling out a worksheet as they went through it. I really liked this strategy because it
was a good way to ensure all students were paying attention to the information in the
power point, it made them take responsibility and find answers themselves, and it
avoided the dry nature of a lecture. There are plenty of times that a lecture strategy must
be used in a class, this is a great way to use that same strategy but avoid standing in front
of the room presenting a power point, without students fully engaged.
3. Although it appeared majority of the class were advanced learners, without any obvious
needs, the strategy I mentioned prior allowed the lesson to meet the needs of different
learners. Students were able to work at a pace that was comfortable to them. There are
many students who struggle with reading a power point slide, writing it in their notes, and
then comprehending what the information actually means. Having the students
individually go through the power point on their personal computers, allowed them to pay
more attention and retain the information at their own pace.
4. It was evident that Mr. Knight had developed relationships with many of his students.
The best way he showed this was by being able to have a little fun and laugh with his
students during the round of trivial pursuit. The students liked that they got to compete
against their teacher. There was also a level of respect in the classroom that was very
obvious. Students knew that they were able to laugh and enjoy themselves, but also knew
when it was time to get to work. I think having good relationships with your students,
creates that respect in your classroom.
5. I loved the idea of this class and I am glad that Poudre is involved with such an awesome
project. I am passionate about career and technical education and this class has many
similar values. Anytime a student can apply what they are learning in a classroom to a
real life situation, their understanding is greatly deepened.

#3
Mr. Savig, Geometry and Construction
Approximate number of students in classroom:30
Grade level: Freshman and Sophomores
1. The Geometry and Construction class was one of the most unique high school classes I
have ever gotten the chance to observe. Students were applying the geometry they learn
in the classroom, to building a house for Habitat for Humanity. The day I observed was a
work day so every student was outside, working on the construction of the house. The
class environment was an amazing collaboration of engaged students. I was absolutely
amazed by this class!
2. The instructional strategies that were being used in this class were direct skill. Groups of
students were assigned different tasks for the day, including leveling the scaffolding,
adding plywood siding to the home, leveling the walls and doorways, and adding top
braces to the frame of the house. I have never seen such applicable learning before.
Students were taking the math skills they had learned in the class previous, and through
their homework, and using it in a real life situation. I hope to use similar strategies in my
classes.
3. Although each student was required to do the same homework and learn the same
geometry skills, the actual building of the house was a chance for every type of learner to
be involved. I love hands-on, experiential learning for that very reason. Every student
was capable of accomplishing the task that was assigned to them. Being in teams,
allowed student peers to assist their fellow classmates if they were struggling.
4. The most obvious way that Mr. Savig established and maintained relationships with his
students was that he was working right alongside them. He was right there hammering
nails into the house, or leveling the scaffolding with the students. There are many times
that teachers check out while their students are doing work, but if you are willing to get
your hands dirty this establishes a lot of respect with your students.