One Child's Development, Auditory Learner?

11 September 2012
My first day in the classroom, working with 3rd graders, was spent helping the students with math problems as a review for an upcoming test.  I quickly learned that explaining how to solve a problem without giving away an answer is hard to do.  The students are at various levels of comprehension on the subject.  Some students could be talked through the problems if I pointed out key terms to focus on.  For visual learners, I would draw examples on the board.  One way of explaining something wouldn't help every student.  My experience on that first day reminded me that everyone has a different learning style and to be a good teacher, I will have to learn how to incorporate aspects from the three styles in my lessons.  I also will want to keep in mind the theory of multiple intelligences to reach out to those students who may be more gifted in the arts, for example, than they are in academics (math, reading, science, etc.).

My second day in the class was test day.  The teacher was very glad I could sit and read the math test to one of her students.  This year is the student's first year in school.  Mother of said student was supposedly home schooling him, however, that was not the case.  He has a lot of catching up to do and developmentally seems to be at a first grade level.  We will see as time goes on how well he adjusts.  I think he is an auditory learner.  He can comprehend what is read aloud, even though he can't read well enough on his own yet.  I am concerned with his ability to connect with his peers.  As I continue to observe this class, I want to mentally monitor his progress and try to do what I can to assist him in his learning.