Chapter 1: Becoming a Teacher

Chapter 1 of Joy of Teaching Assignment

Brought Me Joy

·         Mentoring/Induction Programs: When I read about Mentoring/Induction programs they have for new students I was very happy. This is because I knew that even though I would be nervous, there would be someone with experience to help me.

·         Rewards of Teaching: After looking at Figure 1.1, I knew that there were lots of good qualities of the teaching profession to negate the low salary. A couple of my favorites are: gives a sense of being respected and appreciated, has job security, and contributes to society and helps others.

·         Opportunity for National Accreditation: I was brought joy when seeing this because I was surprised that there was an opportunity for advancement, room for more salary, and that it would be easier to teach in other states if you are selected. The portfolio seems like a lengthy process, but I am sure it is necessary.

Did Not Bring Me Joy

·         Qualifying Scores: The fact that I may score high enough to teach my subject in one state but not in another made me real nervous. I was worried that I would be smart enough in one place but not in another.

·         Teacher Shortages: I was unhappy when I read that teacher shortages led to teachers teaching subjects that they are not qualified to teach. This seems unfair for anyone involved, especially for the students.

·          Salaries: I really could not find another thing that did not bring me joy. Hence, I picked the obvious one.