I can't believe I'm done already!
I have mixed feelings about having given my final two recitations for the semester today. On the one hand, I'm relieved not to have to wake up before 7 in the morning just to get to school on time. On the other, I'm sure going to miss my kids! I ended up with two great groups this year with whom I could scarcely be happier. And my teaching today between morning and afternoon could scarcely be more different.
The morning section was subpar, to put it politely. I felt like I didn't enlighten them, and the fact that I forgot my textbook at school last night really showed through in my relative lack of preparation. It went alright, overall, but I didn't do nearly enough examples and I didn't explain what I taught particularly well.
The highlight of the morning section was definitely another transcendental experience. A rather bright student (whom I'll not name here) asked me a question about something I'd explained. While I was answering the question as best I could, I looked at him to find that he had fallen asleep while I was answering his own question. I asked him at the end whether the answer was satisfactory, and there was a noticeable pause before he jerked awake again and told me I had. Just as I was turning to write something else on the board, I heard his voice again.
"Um... could you repeat that last bit?"
I struggled mightily to suppress my knowing smile as I indulged his request. Fortunately, as a student, I know from experience that falling asleep does not imply a lack of interest. Still, I don't think that'll be topped any time soon!
By the time my afternoon section rolled around, I had definitely learned from my mistakes. I spoke clearly, gave good examples, and tied things up nicely at the end. As I began to hand back what homework remained, I received something I certainly never expected.
Applause.
Several of my students actually applauded my work as a TA as I finished. It was kind and affirming -- definitely an excellent start to my career as an educator! I know I still have a very long way to go, and have a lot of improving to do, both in terms of knowledge and technique. Still, it was a kinder compliment than I could have hoped for.
