Collaboration Log

New Teacher Name: Matt Honken

Mentor Name: Dan Mangold
Date: 12/9/16
Did you meet the 1 hour of collaboration time this month? YES
Grade Level: 7-12
Subject Area: MS and HS Jazz Band and Concert Band

Collaboration: (Bold and Underline all that apply)

Analyzing student work Post-observation conference Problem solving
Modeling lessons Using technology Observe veteran teacher
Planning lesson Discussing student Providing resources
Pre-observation conference Observing instruction Reflecting
Other

1. After reflecting on your classroom last month, list at least 3 specific examples of items that are
working well.
a. I have been planning each jazz rehearsal to build off the previous, and I have seen much
more of a connection taking place between rehearsals since I dont see them every day.

b. Student excitement about jazz band is really good right now, and I have seen participation
rise overall, even though I have struggled with having some students quit.

c. Transitions in my classroom are improving. There is less down time between songs and I try
to keep each rehearsal moving at a fast pace to avoid giving the students too much time on their
own.

2. List at least 2 specific challenges and/or concerns.

a. Getting students to be committed to jazz band. I have students missing rehearsal and
dropping unexpectedly.

b. Relating to students when you have 83 in class at one time. I have a hard time connecting
with the students when there are so many of them in the class at once.

3. According to the Mentor, what should the new teacher's next steps be to correct the 2
challenges/concerns above.
a. Continue to make jazz band a positive learning experience for those that are in attendance.
This may encourage more consistent attendance and better attitude from students who are
struggling in those areas.

b. When teaching the large group class share some personal stories/examples that might help
relate to the students. They will also be able to learn more about you as well as teaching a
concept.

4. List a specific classroom management/behavior management strategy you have used this month that
has positively impacted your teaching and explain why.
Proximity has been a focus of mine. When you have so many students in the room, I find it very
important to be mobile and moving around to different sections. I try not to stay on the podium for
too long, because then students tend to get really unfocused quickly (especially the students
farthest from me). The more I am moving around the room, the more I feel like I can get
accomplished, and Ive noticed it helps with monitoring the behaviors of some students.