Death By Field Trip!

Yesterday was my first Social Studies Methods class and I have to say that it did not go over very well with me. It started out ok, although we learned that the teacher does not like interruptions of talking, sarcasm in comments, or when I personally make choices for other students in the classroom (yes, I was yelled at about this last night). The class itself seems like it will be interesting. However, as soon as our professor mentioned we'd be going on a field trip I knew it was all down hill from there. Don't get me wrong. Taking a class of 3rd graders on a field trip will be a lot of fun and is something I am looking forward to. I think it is going to be awesome to get out of the classroom and be with kids while they explore (for instance) the downtown City Building, but having to do this activity in Grad School tends to make me feel like I am wasting my time (it is a three hour class) and tuition money (it's very expensive at Westminny). The highlight of the trip I must say, was when our professor ran a red light, slamming on the breaks and hurling all 11 students (including myself) forward to the front of the van. She then proceeded to back up out of the intersection so that waiting cars could pass. When the light changed to green and we started pulling forward, to all of our surprises, the van jetted in reverse, again causing all of our hearts to leap into our throats and passionate screams of terror to escape our mouths. One student even shouted "We're all going to die!" The professor forgot to return the van to drive from the previous backing up.

All and all it was an interesting first class, and although we laughed it off (calling it the Final Destination Field Trip), and our professor was able to smile at her embarrassing mistake, it was STILL a tad bit frightening.

The best part of last night though was that at the end of our class we were given our elementary school assignments and our co-teaching partners, and I am completely happy with both. The school I will be teaching at this semester is in my old hood, which is exciting. I also lucked out and got a partner I think will be a lot of fun to get to know and to work with more. It was a lot of information to take in, and a bit overwhelming, but here we go! Game on! Watch out 3rd grade this student teacher is on his way to SCHOOL YOU!