It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...and this makes kids crazy!

It's the end of the semester! I have 1 day left in my 3rd grade class and I also get to go spend a day with my 1st grade class. It's difficult to even begin to think about all that I've learned and how much I've grown in my knowledge of teaching. I still feel like there is something lacking becuase I don't actually have my own classroom, but next semester should bring some since of that as I begin to take over most aspects of the classroom. The last few weeks in this 3rd grade class have flown by. The holiday season gets the kids all excited and it's even more difficult to get their attention and get them to focus. I've had some struggles with this age that I didn't have in 1st or Kindergarten, so currently I'm thinking that I'd prefer to teach 1st or 2nd, still not so keen on Kindergarten.
Despite by anticipation and nerves, I passed my first 2 praxis tests with flying colors. I've got 2 more to take at the beginning of January. I need to start studying for those because the week before will be my first week back with my 1st graders.
This holdiay break will be much needed as I prepare myself for the craziness of next semester. Along with those 2 praxis tests and planning and teaching my 1st graders, I will be planning and conducting my action research and participating in a pre-pilot evaluation program for interns. I was selected as one of the few interns in my cohort to take part in this in depth evaluation. Basically, I'll be planning and teaching, along with videotaping, a weeks worth of lessons. It is supposed to be a lot of work, but it will be a great learning experience and will look good on any resume. Speaking of resumes, that's something else I'll be emerged in next semester...finding the perfect job. This involves completing my resume, filling out applications, going to the job fair, visiting schools, and interviewing. And I thought this last semester was busy...You can bet I'll be celebrating when the end of May arrives!