Tips for new Teaching Assistants Kate Farrell

Who am I? Grad student – theoretical ecology 3 Years teaching at UVM (biology) 2 years teaching at a high school (physics)

Before you start: What is your job? Teacher Mentor Role model Grader Part of a team

Before you start: Who are your students? Where are they coming from? What are their expectations and goals? What is their background?

Before you start: Logistics Read all the labs for the course Understand the expectations of the professor and lab coordinator

Getting off to a good start Clear expectations: First day handout –Schedule –Grading –Policy for late work Start on time Start off strict, you can ease up later

What students need to know How does this relate to the big picture? How will I be graded? What are the important concepts? What are the important skills? How do I get help?

Things you do not need to do Hide the fact that you do not know everything Lecture for an hour without a break Plan every word you will say before you get there

Things you do need to do Know the essential ideas and concepts Plan to address these ideas and concepts Point out good questions and suggest ways to find the answer

Things you do need to do Clearly explain your expectations –Students can’t read your mind Treat students with respect –Your students are rookies, not stupid people