Break In The Action

There hasn't been a whole lot to write about the last week. We had a week long break for a National Holiday, so not a lot happening in relation to school. I did submit my application for IWU's MEd Online program. I am hoping to start this coming January or February. I would like to complete it before I am done here in Bangkok. Starting either of those dates should put me on schedule to do so, or close to it.

Did get back into the groove of class today. I still feel that I am lacking in reaching these students at times and challenging them enough. For example, today in my Algebra class, we were discussing solving equations with variables on both sides. I had some of the students come up and work the problems for me on the board. The rest of the class seemed to be almost lost and have no idea what was going on. I was extremely frustrated by this because I was trying to give the students a chance to work the problems in front of the class and display their communication skills, but the results for the rest of the class was below expectations.

Part of the problem, I believe is my inexperience and my developing my teaching methods and style. However, I also believe that part of the problem is the wide range of ability within each class. I cannot go too fast or ask problems that are too challenging because the students who struggle will be even more lost. I cannot slow down because the students who are mathematically stronger are already bored and to slow down would only cause more problems.

I am talking with the principal, department head and counselor about splitting up these classes for next year into an advanced track and normal track. That would cause some very small classes, but it is necessary if they are trying to get some of these students into Calculus by their senior year. Every other school I know of has at least two tracks by the time the students are in 7th grade. I am trying to get this for the school next year, but I am not sure how well it will go over. I have a feeling it will come down to a matter of money and the administration not wanting to pay for two classes when one teacher can handle a combined class. I am still going to try though, hopefully it will work out for the best.

Aaron