College of Education & Human Services
Education Majors

Stages of Student Teaching

Stage One.  During the first week in the classroom, the student teacher should spend time observing classroom procedures and learning the names of the students.  S/he may begin assuming a few administrative and procedural tasks such as roll taking and grade recording if the cooperating teacher feels it is appropriate.  The student teacher may also begin assisting individual students or small groups with lessons or projects at this time.  This is a transition time for the student teacher and open communication between him/her and the cooperating teacher is essential in clarifying roles and expectations.

Stage Two.  This stage will comprise the major portion of student teaching.  The student teacher and the cooperating teacher may plan lessons cooperatively, with the cooperating teacher giving final approval prior to each activity or lesson.  A gradual increase in teaching responsibilities for the student teacher should begin to occur at this time until a full teaching schedule is assumed.  Feedback at this stage is very important so that the student teacher can effectively evaluate his/her teaching performance. 

Stage Three.  The Minnesota Board of Teaching requires a minimum of one week (or five consecutive days) of full-time student teaching.  It is to your advantage to teach more than the requirement indicates. In many classrooms, it is expected that you will teach more than 5 consecutive days. During this stage, all activities normally assumed by a classroom teacher including instruction, classroom management and pupil supervision should be performed by the student teacher as readiness is demonstrated.

Stage Four.  At the close of the student teaching experience, the classroom responsibilities will return to the cooperating teacher.  Opportunities for the student teacher to observe in other classrooms in the building should be provided if at all possible.

*Your university supervisor will inform you of any other requirements for your specific situation. 

Expanding the Student Teaching Experience

Student teaching is an exciting time.  Not only does it allow you to apply all of the knowledge and skills you have learned in your course work, it also gives you a chance to have a variety of experiences.  To expand your teaching opportunity, try some of the suggestions on the following checklist.  While some of these activities are required, the more you can check by the end of the semester, the broader the experience you can feel you have had in your student teaching.  The checklist also gives your cooperating teacher ideas for planning worthwhile activities for you.

____  Visit another building or another district.

____  Observe teachers in other content areas.

____  Write a case study on one of your students.

_____ Look at grade level standards for grades other than the one you are teaching.

____  Investigate professional literature in areas relevant to your teaching interests.

____  Assume responsibility for bulletin boards, displays, etc.

____  Attend faculty meetings, departmental meetings, parent conferences and parent-

           teacher organization meetings.

____  Supervise halls, lunchrooms, playgrounds and bus loading.

____  Maintain a grade book or attendance record.

** Be sure to make the proper arrangements and get clearance for all of the above suggestions.**

Guidelines For Student Teachers

1.    Begin your student teaching assignment with a positive attitude.  Use positive guidance; be firm but fair!  Obtain and maintain good classroom control.  Make no promises or statements you cannot or will not keep.  Talk to the cooperating teacher often about his/her classroom management techniques.  Keep in mind, cooperating teachers are there to help you learn and grow.

2.    Obtain and learn the policies of your school and classroom. 

3.    Make very detailed lesson plans, so that if necessary someone else could teach from them.  Be specific.  Have your cooperating teacher's approval at least one day (one week for a unit) before you plan to use them. 

4.    Good teachers are always reflecting on their teaching and self-evaluating. It is imperative   that student teachers include reflection as an integral part of each day. Ask yourself the following questions after you have taught a lesson.

1. What did the students learn from this lesson? How do I know they were actively engaged?

2. How closely did I follow my lesson plan? Did I have to modify during the lesson? Why?

3. What was the most effective part of the lesson?

4. Were the materials appropriate?

5. What would I change/keep the next time I teach this lesson?

6. What were my teaching strengths in this lesson?

7. A goal I would like to have my cooperating teaching assist me in reaching is……

5.    Use proper grammar, spelling and punctuation.  Make a positive attempt to improve your communications - both written and oral.  Consult a dictionary if necessary.  Avoid trite and slang expressions. 

6.    Take initiative!  Do something constructive without being told.  Consult your cooperating teacher first, and if approved, take action.  Avoid having to be told everything you are to do.

7.    Use your time efficiently.  Plan your day; organize everything you are to do.  Plan for success!

8.    Be well groomed and professionally dressed at all times. 

9.    Be prompt or early.  Avoid absences. Notify your cooperating teacher and supervisor if you will be late or absent for any reason.

10.    Make constructive notes during your observation periods and apply them.  Ask clarifying questions of your cooperating teacher after observations.

11.     Make sure you know ahead of time how to get to your school.  Do a trial run before the first day.  Be sure to check parking facilities at the school.  Are teachers given specific parking space?  Do you need a parking permit? 

12.     Attend all faculty meetings. They are a great source of information. Consider yourself a guest and not a participant.

13.     Think of ways that you can assist your cooperating teacher.  Don't just sit and watch, but help pass out materials, assist with individual instruction and conduct small group discussions.  Volunteer to get involved with as much as possible during the observation period.

14.     Remember that teachers have many other commitments and duties.  Your cooperating teacher cannot be available to you at all times.  Be realistic.  Jot down questions that you have and ask them during quiet times.