Anyhow, the class went smoothly, was well paced, the students were attentive, without any classroom management issues...it's the kind of class that gives a big emotional energy boost!
I received a lot of positive feedback from the class observation, and picked up a term coined by our Lower School Principal to describe certain classes: "Ikea Lessons." Now...what is something that we know about Ikea? Well, it's modern, but what is the reason most of us go to Ikea? For the furniture. Specifically, many of us need efficient storage systems. Efficiency of storage, efficient use of a small space...that's definitely one if Ikea's many strengths. So, what is an Ikea lesson? It's a lesson that makes the most efficient use of teaching time. Beginning a lesson right as the students are being seated. Continuing at a comfortable pace, but keeping up the flow continuously throughout the lesson. An "Ikea lesson." That's definitely something for me to strive for--to try to make every lesson an "Ikea lesson." Thanks for the term, and thanks for the inspiration, Mrs. Bowers! You inspire me to try to do better each time I step in front of my students. :-)