The teacher I have been assigned to for field service teaches 10th grade Honors English. In addition, he also teaches Intro to Mass Media and Yearbook, and oversees the school newspaper.

This combination of classes provides for a mix of students from diverse backgrounds and personalities. There are only a few minority students. One ESL student in particular, who stood out to me, seemed to be following along with the lesson at the same pace as his classmates, but when he spoke he struggled with his English language. There was very little indication of boredom—no one in particular stood out.

The teacher is very natural at keeping a pace that flows well, transitioning flawlessly from one activity to another. He did a wonderful job of engaging his students. I feel very lucky to have him as a mentor. There is no doubt in my mind that I will learn much from him. My first impression of him, based upon his personality and his teaching style, is that he is one of those extraordinary teachers who students always remember.

At this point, I am not quite sure how I will engage the students; he is going to be a great example for me, yet a “tough act to follow.” I did implement a “getting to know you” exercise with the students in order to help me to learn their names. Due to varying content of the different classes and time factors I wasn’t able to do it with all the classes, but I will have the opportunity to continue this Friday … students were responsive and friendly.