As part of my minor, UFTeach, each semester I was placed in different classrooms in local Alachua County schools ranging from third grade to eighth grade gifted Physical Science. For each field placement, I was required to prepare and deliver three science lessons to students. Creating and delivering lessons called for a great deal of collaboration. Every semester, I worked with different teachers from Alachua County schools and distinct teaching partners to create interactive lesson plans. I became comfortable adapting to new people and teaching environments. I went from teaching lessons with a partner to teaching independently, assuming the role of an expert teacher. As I continued to interact with students through engaging lessons, my comfort and confidence grew in my responsibilities and teaching abilities. With guidance from my UFTeach professors, I gained the ability to improvise when needed and to effectively communicate in a patient and amicable manner to my students. I learned to manage my time productively under stressful situations in the classroom and balance my demanding microbiology courses with the time I dedicated to teaching.
I’m glad to say that my fascination for teaching has grown. The rewards I attain originate from student comprehension. I learned how to format and ask probing questions in such a way as to lead the student to the realization and give me, the teacher, an idea of what the student already knew. I clarified students’ misconceptions which lead to their eagerness and willingness to study science.
