w2a

Part 1: Observation

Observing a classroom environment can provide much needed detail and understanding of students' learning needs and continued progress.

Observe a K-8 classroom during a social studies lesson. During your observation of the lesson, complete the “Social Studies Observation” form.

Speak with your mentor teacher and, provided permission, use any remaining time to seek out opportunities to observe and/or assist your mentor teacher or another teacher and work with a small group of students on instruction in the classroom.

Part 2: Collaboration Summary

Following your observation, have a discussion with your mentor teacher about the social studies lesson. In 250-500 words summarize your observation and discussion with your mentor teacher, and describe how you will apply what you have learned to your future professional practice.

Your discussion should include the following:

1. How do you engage your students in social studies lessons?
2. How do you apply real-world relevancy to the lessons?
3. What examples do you have of incorporating the arts into social studies lessons?
4. What strategies do you use to create learning experiences that activate students’ prior knowledge?

Speak with your mentor teacher about implementing a social studies pre-assessment during Clinical Field Experience B. Inquire about the unit and standards that the classroom is learning in order to prepare your pre-assessment.

Submit your observation form and collaboration summary as one deliverable.