Lesson Reflection #1

Nicole Todd
October 14, 2014
For my first lesson, I taught a social studies lesson on Hernando de Soto. Overall, this
lesson went really well. The students researched Hernando de Soto with a partner, and they
completed a K-W-L chart that I created, prior to the lesson. The students were responsible for
finding when Hernando de Soto lived, where he explored, his home country, and what he was
known for. The students reached the objective because they were able to summarize information
about Hernando de Soto. As I walked around the room, I noticed all the students had the
information that was needed in their chart.
I used a variety of strategies during this lesson. While they were researching, I rotated
around the room to make sure the students were working effectively and doing as they were told.
However, I would revise my questions to the students. I would ask the students questions, such
as: where did you find that information? How do you know this is correct? I would also revise
my timing. I need to be able to notice when the students are ready to move on and transition
effectively.
If I were to teach this lesson again, I would be sure to describe my expectations to the
students before they begin with their research. I would tell them how they should share the
computers and work together with their partner. I would also change the way I questioned the
students. I would make sure my questions were holding the students responsible for the work
they were to be doing. One last thing I would do if I were to teach this lesson again is I would
have a PowerPoint to go over Hernando de Soto after the students are finished researching. This
would be a good ending for the lesson.