Grammar Bootcamp
Using my experience in Navy bootcamp as a frame (minus the yelling, belittling, pushups, situps, and running), I have devised a rigorous grammar bootcamp used in all of my courses (except online). My aim is to level the playing field by giving all of my students fundamental grammar, writing, and editing skills required of them for various assignments in my class and essential skills to have when they leave academia.
Lesson Plans
I am not a fan of "winging it," but am also not a fan of rigid structure. My lesson plans are guidelines on specific learning objectives for the day, but are flexible enough to allow extra time to be spent on ideas brought up during class discussion.
Incorporating Technology
One of the first assignments I have my students complete is to create a "teaching" powerpoint presentation on a grammar rule, a writing process, or a theme from literature (depending on the class). I have found that using technology, in its many forms, as an interactive tool is a great way to get students to connect with the material.
Classroom Management
The combination of a well thought out classroom management policy, interactive lessons, prompt feedback on work, and regularly held conferences generally eliminate most instances of disruption in my classes. I consider myself easy going, but my purpose in the classroom is not to be liked or to be a friend. There is a distinct line that needs to drawn from the first day in order to create the requisite learning environment.
