2012 in review

2012: Me, teacher, constructivist, learner – another year on!

Writing my first post for the year is something I enjoy. This blog is where I reflect on my teaching and learning, share resources and thank people. I was once told that a full plate is far better than an empty plate. My plate has certainly been filled to maximum in 2012… possibly ‘more than I could chew!’

I’ve learnt an enormous amount about myself, people and leadership. The Leading Teacher role combined with a classroom teacher is challenging. Balance is not easy to achieve and those who have held this position would certainly understand. Challenge is positive!

2012 was my year to really understand Bloom’s Taxonomy and Vygotsky’s Zone of Proximal Development and to use this knowledge to plan a differentiated program for my students. I recommend all to view the following YouTube and if you’re struggling with either you’ll find this presentation excellent. Did I achieve this? I’m still learning is my answer…

In Australia (Victoria) our students have 13 years of formal education (P-6: Primary & 7-12: Secondary). Students attend pre-school or Early Learning Programs before starting school. One thing I have focused on in 2012 is making sure my students consolidate meaning when reading. Children are eager to read harder text. Losing meaning results if fluency isn’t maintained for most children. Ensuring children are working in their ZPD when learning to read is crucial as is fluently reading and enjoying an independent text. Balance is the key.

I will be exploring teaching strategies in 2013 and reflecting here. It’ll be interesting to write about the two years after prep and see where I can take this age group. I’ll also be focusing and writing about teaching mathematics.

The WordPress.com stats helper monkeys prepared a 2012 annual report for this blog.

Here’s an excerpt:

4,329 films were submitted to the 2012 Cannes Film Festival. This blog had 44,000 views in 2012. If each view were a film, this blog would power 10 Film Festivals

Click here to see the complete report.

Happy New Year to all!

Cheers Nina