I need to teach a 20 minute lesson plan as part of my second interview, I need advice. What should I focus on?

Question

I recently applied for a teaching position at a local school district, I passed the first interview and just got called back for a second interview. I'm really excited and I really want this job! I They haven't told me what the grade level (k-5th) will be because they are filling in more than one position, but I'll be happy with any grade level.

For the second interview I have to teach a 20 minute lesson plan on any subject of my choice. My students will be a group of summer camp students ranging from kindergarten to fifth grade. I thought about teaching a science lesson because science can easily be hands-on and interactive, but I'm second guessing myself and feeling very anxious. I feel like I should try doing a language arts lesson but my concern is the wide range of age groups I'll be teaching.

I really need help finding a focus. Also I would really appreciate any additional suggestions or advice on how to implement the lesson. Does anyone have any tips or suggestions?

Answer 1

I wouldn't necessarily do a lesson that has the possibility to get out of hand. You need to show them that you can develop a rapport but also show your management skills. And 20minutes is not that long!

You could do a science lesson that involved sorting or categorising where the kids were handling objects (for example, I've sorted rubbish from recycling with little ones) but I wouldn't do an experiment as they take too long and have the potential to get out of hand easily. Save it for when you have the job.

Good luck!

Answer 2

I think science is a great idea.  Use a topic that spans all grade levels...like living green or anything animals.  If you choose LA I would teach sound words...like onamonepias (spelling?) or something.   All kids can enjoy this and you could break the group into 2 sub groups -older and younger students and ask them to do a level specific writing that uses sound words.  

Answer 3

I cant see you getting through anything  in 20 min if you plan on doing a science experiment. As a teacher I think that I would do some group work activity where you demonstrate you organisational skills with a large group of children. The interviewers don't want to see your knowledge of content they want to see how you interact with and manage the kids                                   .  I would give a very short introductory lesson and then organise the kids into small groups according to age. I would then give each group a different activity to work on depending on their age. I would then bring them together and present a conclusion . Some suggested topics that can be done successfully with these age groups are: healthy eating, advertising on TV, exercise requirements  or caring for our environment. I am sure you can think of lots more. the fact that they have asked to see you again is a great sign. Good luck!

Answer 4

I think that science or art would be good choices for this.  I have a little brother around that age and you just have to be confident in yourself and show the kids you care (don't yell at the kids). I'm sure you'll do fine! Best of luck!

Answer 5

Teaching

We are all aware of recent research and new teaching techniques.  However, sometimes it is just the little things that make a difference in getting learning to occur.  Whether you want to call them "tricks of the trade" or "ideas that have worked for me," we are just happy teachers with passion do not give up!

http://alternativeeducationbible.com/tea...

Grades 3 – 5.

http://edtech.kennesaw.edu/web/3-5.htm

Internet Activities Standards-Based For Students

http://www.cps.k12.il.us/sbirg/index.htm...

Sites for Teachers.

http://www.englishforums.com/

http://www.schoolexpress.com/

http://www.sitesforteachers.com/

http://www.4teachers.org/archive/

http://www.learnnc.org/bestweb/

http://www.funbrain.com/index.html

http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/teachers/