Graduate Teaching Assistant how-to
How to Lead Your First Discussion Section
First sections set the tone.
Quick answer
First sections set the tone. In short: learn; explain; start, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Learn names.
Explain expectations.
Start with a question.
Use small groups.
Bring discussion back together.
Summarize key points.
Safety reminders for graduate teaching assistants
- Follow lab safety rules
- Protect student records
- Report concerns about students
- Follow campus safety
Key terms
Assistantship · Stipend · Tuition waiver · Discussion section · Lab section · Instructor of record: see the full graduate teaching assistant glossary.