Back To Teaching

Yesterday was the first day of school, but that's the day we go over the syllabus and explain classroom procedures.  Not much real "teaching" can occur on that day.  Today was the first real day of teaching.  I do so enjoy the very beginning of Spanish 1.  I have them pick Spanish names and learn the alphabet.  It is loads of fun for me.  I have to remember that teaching Spanish 1, even though you don't get the most serious or mature students, can be fun.  They are still not convinced it is something they can learn, and I do a lot of "selling."  Maybe I am even somewhat good at teaching this level.  

Spanish 2 was great.  I had a lot of students I knew from last year and it was nice to see them again.  (The ones I didn't like having either didn't continue or wound up in someone else's class.)  

This is one of those rare, satisfying days.  I need to look back on these when I have rough days.  I know I will have some.  I have already spotted some problems in a couple of classes.  I have to say, though, that overall teaching today went very well.  I think we all had a good time.

Boy, am I tired!  I don't know where my energy comes from when I am teaching, but I was all over the place today.  I guess that's why I am tired.  In lower level Spanish, there isn't much down time for the teacher.  I am always "on," directing what they need to do and making sure they are doing it.  I guess that is why I am tired.  Also, I still haven't established my routine so I forget things, and do a lot of backtracking and detouring.  I have a new schedule and a new classroom this year.  At least I don't have a new school!