Nancy Mendoza

Dr. Marian Ellis

Educ. 1301.200

November 30, 2017

Reflection Essay

All my life I had desired to be a teacher. I loved helping my siblings with homework. I

have the patience and skills to help others learn. After some time, I wasn't so sure if teaching

was what I really wanted to do, but after observing, I am positive that I was meant to become a

teacher. This experience was not only enlightening to my career but also gratifying.

I had the privilege to observe in a bilingual kindergarten class at Travis Elementary with

Mrs. Lopez. This was the elementary school I attended as a child, so it was pretty exciting for

me. The first time I went into the classroom, the class was sitting down in front of the teacher

listening to her read a story. I sat down in a chair and observed the class quietly. The class was

incredibly well behaved. They paid attention without interrupting. They did their work as they

were told.

I knew beforehand that not all student learn at the same pace. Some are more advanced

than others. Seeing it in person was eye opening. I learned that you cant delay the whole class

for that student that is not up to the other students level. It would be best to give that student

extra time and attention separately. Some students are easier to teach than others while other

require some more dedication.

Mrs. Lopez taught with more than one learning style. She would allow th em to work by

themselves and she would also have them sit in a circle in front of her. They would listen to what

she had to teach. When she read to them, sometimes she would stop and ask them a question,
they would raise their hands and answer the question. Other times she would tell them to get with

their assigned partner and ask them the same question. Then they would answer the teacher

according to what their partner said. She also had them work in group stations and after a certain

amount of time they would rotate. I like how she had them working in groups. Personally,

though, I would focus a little bit more on each individual separately. That way the student that is

a little bit more behind than the other can get the assistance they need.

I bonded with the students after spending 16 hours observing them. They would greet me

and come up to hug me. I know that teaching children will fulfill my dream career. I cant wait

to get my degree so I can make my dream come true. This episode in my life is only the

beginning to my future as a successful elementary teacher.