Knowledge Synthesis Page for the Field Experience

Overview
During the field experience I spent ten hours observing an eighth grade Social Studies
class. During this time I got the chance to not only take note of how the teacher taught but also
got to work with a student. When working with this student, I devised a plan that aimed to
improve his written literacy. This opportunity gave me many insights into the education system
and how to best approach certain aspects of the class. After the class was dismissed the teacher
gave me useful websites and resources to refer to when teaching. Having the opportunity to
converse with a veteran teacher in my content area was a great blessing. She took the time to talk
to me and answer any questions I had.
Skills and Insights Gained
My field experience gave me many important insights and skills that will prove useful for
my career as a teacher.

The rapport the teacher had with her students was great and I took note of some of the
ways which she interacted with the students. I will try to imitate the teacher when I get

my own teaching position.

During my class time at college we learn about differentiating for students at different
levels. Observing in different social studies classes allowed me to recognize that
differentiation is very important. The difference in intelligence from the gifted to at level
students was quite noticeable. The gifted students need more challenging questions and

independent work than those at or below level.

Having the chance to devise a way to improve a students written literacy gave me useful
firsthand experience with teaching. I had to recognize an issue with the students

learning, devise a plan to improve the students learning, and finally enact the plan. This
is something that will be necessary throughout my teaching career.
Lessons Learned
During my Field Experience I have come away with important lessons. Firstly, I got to
see how a teacher should interact with his students. This is an important lesson to learn and I
need to implement this in my own classroom. Secondly, I learned that, unfortunately, there is
a great deal of bureaucracy associated with teaching in the public school system. The teacher
whose class I observed showed me all the additional work she had to do. Teachers often
cannot fully focus on their lessons because of all the paperwork that has to be completed.
This is important for me to keep in mind, for when I become a teacher. Even though, I do not
agree how things are run, the paperwork is a necessary part of the job. Overall, I realized that
teaching can be a rewarding job. Helping students learn is such a great feeling, as I learned
from my field experience, and I look forward to my career as a teacher.