It's Your First Year Teaching... But You Don't Have to Act Like It

Rating:
Summary: A great teacher
Review: As a student of Mr. Kitchen, I have never had a better teacher than him! I know other teachers can be thought of like that, especially after they read his book.

Rating:
Summary: A great teacher
Review: As a teacher and coach, I have found that I learn best how to most effectively improve my own methods by reading about the experiences of those who have been successful. In the field of coaching, there are countless wonderful books by championship coaches whose accounts of their ups and downs are most illuminating. In the field of education, we are woefully lacking. Bob Kitchen's book is a rare first-hand account from a teacher who has observed and absorbed numerous lessons from the front of the classroom -- some positive, some negative -- and all are enlightening to those who have stood in his shoes as a high school teacher. Though I teach math, I find myself wondering how I might incorporate Mr. Kitchen's methods for teaching English into my own curriculum. And his thoughts on discipline and class management certainly provide a valuable resource for teachers of any subject.

To me, the best thing about this book is its honest and analytical reflection of the highlights and lowlights of a tremendously productive teaching career from an author who is not too proud to admit his past mistakes yet not so humble as to hide the secrets to his powerful performance in the classroom. I am a better teacher for reading this book.

Rating:
Summary: Teachers need more books like this!
Review: As a teacher and coach, I have found that I learn best how to most effectively improve my own methods by reading about the experiences of those who have been successful. In the field of coaching, there are countless wonderful books by championship coaches whose accounts of their ups and downs are most illuminating. In the field of education, we are woefully lacking. Bob Kitchen's book is a rare first-hand account from a teacher who has observed and absorbed numerous lessons from the front of the classroom -- some positive, some negative -- and all are enlightening to those who have stood in his shoes as a high school teacher. Though I teach math, I find myself wondering how I might incorporate Mr. Kitchen's methods for teaching English into my own curriculum. And his thoughts on discipline and class management certainly provide a valuable resource for teachers of any subject.

To me, the best thing about this book is its honest and analytical reflection of the highlights and lowlights of a tremendously productive teaching career from an author who is not too proud to admit his past mistakes yet not so humble as to hide the secrets to his powerful performance in the classroom. I am a better teacher for reading this book.

Rating:
Summary: Recipe for success
Review: Bob Kitchen has written a book containing a recipe for success for beginning and veteran teachers alike. His book is based on 20+ years of teaching and is practical and jargon-free. Bob gets right at the heart of why so many eager educators embark on a career which falls far short of their expectations. In a very accessible, conversational style Bob passes on many lessons - some of which he had to learn the hard way. He covers a wide range of topics from what you need to have in your desk to what to say the first day. His advice concerning dealing with parents, colleagues, administrators and staff members is clear and thoughtful.His anecdotal, conversational style is exactly what teachers regardless of experience need. He manages to pack more information into 94 pages than tiresome books that are much longer. I've taught for 30 years and have this book in my desk - you should too.

Rating:
Summary: This is a must read for all teachers!
Review: It would have been very helpful to have this book at the beginning of my career and, as a matter of fact, it's still nice to have it in my desk. The author's style is much more conversational, personal, and encouraging than many books dealing with similar topics. He obviously loves what he does, is quite good at it, and is willing to share openly and honestly. It is practical and accessible for all teachers, unlike many other books that are filled with jargon and theory. I loved the book, and I have recommended it to everyone on my staff.