Lesson Critique

Lets be honest, I hated this assignment.  I was extremely nervous before teaching a lesson to my peers and even more nervous that my professor was video recording me.  It was something close to torture to watch myself and even harder to write a paper critiquing my presentation.  However, after I finished, I realized that this helped me a lot.  I saw that I have some strengths and need to be confident in my ability.   I knew the content and felt comfortable with my knowledge on the Great War.  On the other hand, I noticed the areas where improvement is needed.  I tend to say "um" when I am nervous and look upward toward the ceiling.  I also seemed pretty stiff and didn't move around at all.  I need to be more comfortable with my teaching style.  So as they say, practice make perfect.
Below is my paper:

Betsy Moore

EDMS 333

Presentation Critique

            I recently taught a lesson introducing The Great War and was videotaped.  I was able to go back and watch myself teach.  After watching my video I analyzed my strengths and areas that need improvement. 

My strengths when teaching this introduction to The First World War were numerous.  First, I reviewed what the students had recently learned, and how that tied into what they will learn about World War One.  For example, I reviewed the definition of nationalism and imperialism; then reminded the class when we discussed the two terms.  Next, I informed the class how these terms will be important during The Great War.  Another strength of my presentation was the use of technology by incorporating a PowerPoint into my lesson.  On the PowerPoint I showed maps and pictures.  Some of the pictures were taken during the war, while others were taken after the war.  All of the pictures helped students to understand the seriousness and devastation of The Great War.  The final positive aspect of my presentation was my ability to relate The Great War to today.  I showed pictures of modern day France where violence from the war can still be seen.  There are still numerous bunkers and trenches in France that reminds people of the Great War. 

            Although there were strengths to my presentation, there were also areas which could use improvement.  For example, when teaching I tend to move my hands a lot.  This can be good because it shows my excitement for the material and can be helpful to keep students attention.  However, if I move my hands excessively it can take away from the instruction and be a distraction.  I need to find a healthy balance.  Another weakness of my presentation was my abundant use of the word “um”.  Whenever I am nervous I tend to say um and look toward the ceiling.  I need to work on not using the word um and keep eye contact with students.  When I was teaching I stood in the same spot the entire time.  I would like to feel more comfortable and be able to walk around the class while I am teaching the students.  By walking around the class I could ensure that students are listening and make sure they are taking notes. 

            Overall, I am happy with my first attempt at teaching an introductory lesson.  I am confident that I will be able to improve my weaknesses and strengthen the positive aspects of my presentation skills.  I am excited to teach again and become more comfortable with my teaching style.  It was beneficial to watch myself teach and to critique myself.  This is something I will do again in the future, evaluate my teaching, in order to keep improving.