Rachel gives some more observations of a TPRS classroom from a new teacher’s perspective.

 

Today was yet another great day in Spanish Class.  I was reminded of a few things, but had simply forgotten about.  For example, Bryce and the student actor began a mini story and Bryce did a comprehension check by having the students show anywhere from 1-10 with their fingers.  I was also reminded of the importance of classroom management when Bryce said, “There is no instruction without discipline [what I take to mean classroom management].”  The period before Bryce had demonstrated when he said something along the lines of, “I’m glad you are reading, but now is not the right time.”  Problem solved and a perfect example of how discipline makes instruction possible.

 

As the teacher, you should never hesitate to pull the “it’s my story” card on students.  What I didn’t realize is that this doesn’t have to be after the story has been developed, but can be as early as needed during the process of story creation like when the students suggest a detail you wish to reject, regardless of the reason.  It should also be clear to students (even on day 7 or so) that they actually take steps to ensure a good grade, and particularly a good participation grade, by showing or signaling that they do NOT understand even though this feels a little counterintuitive.  It felt so good to get reminded of these aspects of teaching without being overwhelmed by Bryce’s mastery of teaching and TPRS®.