B1. Teaching Assistants will demonstrate competency in engaging all learners in English language communication and cultural understanding using language acquisition teaching strategies, including applications of multi-media technologies.
English is a language that is used worldwide and teaching it as a second language can be difficult and in this moment in time it is even harder because keeping students' attention can be problematic. In order to quickly capture my students attention I try to use pop culture and multimedia to my advantage so students can get to see and listen the many ways it is used. Among the many tools I use are music, short films and music videos.
A topic of recent debate has been the Black Lives Matter movement in the United States. One of the many short films/music videos that has captured the attention of my students regarding this is Kendrick Lamar's "Alright". Not only does this clip help students get engaged in class but it also opens up a conversation where we can discuss the context and environment we live in.
A topic of recent debate has been the Black Lives Matter movement in the United States. One of the many short films/music videos that has captured the attention of my students regarding this is Kendrick Lamar's "Alright". Not only does this clip help students get engaged in class but it also opens up a conversation where we can discuss the context and environment we live in.
B2. Teaching Assistants will manage typical classroom procedures.
The way I frame my classes usually go as follows:
By having music as they enter the room can give them a sense of comfort like they belong and that they can express themselves freely. Thus, when I provide them a "Key to Success", a piece of advice, they are open to listening. This sense of comfort is further developed by asking them how they feel and how their previous date was. They open up and express the pros and cons of their previous experiences. Allowing students to express themselves freely opens the space for them to participate in class without a problem creating an easier learning environment where they educate themselves. Thus, when they get to write their reflections these help them develop their future essays.
A great example of a film that has helped as a "Key to Success" as well as a way to help students comprehend or use as an inspiration for their work is the UPRM Film Certificate's "Frenesi". I often use this movie when I have my students make short films for their evaluative essay unit as a text which shows they can make a very imaginative work even if they have limited resources.
- Turn music on
- Write and discuss "The Key to Success" and Homework
- Take attendance
- Discuss how students feel
- Discuss the class
- Class activity
- Reflect on class & activity
- Remind Homework
By having music as they enter the room can give them a sense of comfort like they belong and that they can express themselves freely. Thus, when I provide them a "Key to Success", a piece of advice, they are open to listening. This sense of comfort is further developed by asking them how they feel and how their previous date was. They open up and express the pros and cons of their previous experiences. Allowing students to express themselves freely opens the space for them to participate in class without a problem creating an easier learning environment where they educate themselves. Thus, when they get to write their reflections these help them develop their future essays.
A great example of a film that has helped as a "Key to Success" as well as a way to help students comprehend or use as an inspiration for their work is the UPRM Film Certificate's "Frenesi". I often use this movie when I have my students make short films for their evaluative essay unit as a text which shows they can make a very imaginative work even if they have limited resources.
B3. Teaching Assistants will communicate effectively using verbal, nonverbal, and media communication techniques.
A way to keep outside interaction with students is through the use of e-mails and blogs. More often than not, e-mails can be difficult due to large amount of messages students receive per day. But this medium can still be very useful if one does not spam their pupils.
Another effective way that has helped me as an instructor to keep outside contact with my students has been through the weekly blog reactions they need to do. By replying to these, I have an idea of where their understanding lies regarding the subjects discussed in class.
Another effective way that has helped me as an instructor to keep outside contact with my students has been through the weekly blog reactions they need to do. By replying to these, I have an idea of where their understanding lies regarding the subjects discussed in class.