Sadie Froese April 30, 2019

Reflection Paper

I had the opportunity of observing at Chisum Elementary School in Paris, Texas. I

observed Tori Howard who teaches fourth grade mathematics. As I began my observation hours,

I did not know what to expect. I had never been in any other role in the classroom other than the

student, so this was definitely something new for me.

When I first walked into Mrs. Howard’s classroom, I could perceive the environment of

the classroom. The room seemed comfortable, warm, and inviting. I believe the classroom

should be a safe place for the students, and this classroom was a perfect example of that. Another

thing I observed was how engaging the lessons were. Each lesson used all the different learning

types, so each child was able to understand what was being taught. Most lessons consisted of a

small group activity, therefore children had the chance to interact with other kids. This was

something I really liked. Often children learn the best from each other. While watching the

teacher and also the children I learned that the more engaging the lesson was, the more the

children seemed to get out of it. If they are were able to do some type of activity with a group of

friends that they can interact with, the information will stick in their head better.

Mrs.Howard made it very clear to her students what her rules were. She did not put up

with kids who disrespected her or other students. Although she was strict in discipline matters,

she was also fun and actively engaged with the children. You could clearly see that the kids

really enjoyed her class. As I observed her lessons I noticed both essentialism and progressivism.

She was very focused on making sure the essential information was being taught to the students.

She wanted very much for the kids to be successful in their school work. In order for this

information to stick in the children’s minds she added the philosophy of progressivism as well.
Sadie Froese April 30, 2019

The children learned a lot of their skills by doing activities. Her classroom was a good balance of

both student and teacher centered teaching.

Overall this experience has taught me a lot. It confirmed that I do still want to become a

teacher. I love the idea of being able to help shape the minds of young children and help them

prepare for life. I will take a lot of what I observed and use it in my future classroom. For

example, her classroom environment was amazing. It was a place where the kids could truly be

themselves, but also learn. She encouraged the students to achieve goals they didn’t think were

possible. That is the kind of environment I want in my future classroom.