JA adventure #2

Good Morning Everyone!! Kinda late to wake up huh? Well, here is my update on my second JA adventure. Two days ago (November 12) my partner Erica and myself completed the second JA lesson plan activity. We went this past wednesday because it was postponed last friday due to the teacher's absence. Opportunity cost= we have to go twice this week and use time more effectively to do more activities in less time. Good thing I am a college student and used to it.
Both of us had to leave work early to meet up and review one last time the lesson plan to make sure we were on the same page. So we finally arrived to the class and the first question we got from students was Why didnt you guys come on last friday?? It made us feel really good because it meant that they remembered us!! Just like last time, Erica started explaining the lesson plan, while I was monitoring that students were paying attention. The topic for this second lesson plan was about how agriculture played a role in the economic development of the U.S. She also reviewed economic terms such as opportunity cost, benefits and costs. Once that was done, she proceded to explain and describe what the Homestead act was. Last but not least, Erica went over the passage located in the student workbook about Daniel Freeman. And then.....Finally it was my turn to take over the lead!!! The kids were doing a good job paying attention throughout the lecture. The activity consisted of creating 5 to 6 groups. Erica helped me monitor them throughout the game. But this time, it seemed as if many student took the game time as free time. Many were engaged, but many others were getting distracted. It was a difficult task since you cant really hold students accountable for their actions, most of all since we are just guests. We tried our best to get them engaged. Overall, Erica and me had fun. I think we passed the test!! Many times it is not about what the teacher says, but how the teacher controls the class and tries to get them engaged. So that was our day....But it is not any where over...We have another session today with the kids.. I just hope that they are not tired of school since its friday...But both of us have the energy to do it!! For now, its time to go for breakfast....