It is called a "practice" not because you are still learning how to do it, but because it involves constant learning, improving, and improvising. (All photos were taken by A.Rose)
Teaching Philosophy |
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Relational Teaching: Good teaching is built on a foundation of strong relationships, according to research from The International Boys Schools Coalition (IBSC). It is imperative to find ways for your students to feel a personal connection to you, and to let your students know you like them. This can include providing activities whose sole purpose is fun, tuning into individual student likes and dislikes, and honing your classroom culture. Laughter, joy, and fun! (dissecting owl pellets) |
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Inquiry-Based Learning: Students are most engaged when they see that the lessons address their own interests and take up questions that they themselves develop. I seek to develop lessons that give students basic questions to run with. I then provide them with supplies and resources they need to explore their own questions.
(Circuit breaker balloons) |
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Honing Language: A major part of science is learning how to communicate about observations. It is important for students to learn specific words that help them explain their ideas. Third graders, for example, learn the names of aquatic macro-invertebrates, which allows them to notice subtle differences between species, and discuss the health of a stream. I also provide students with language tools for successful disagreements and conversations involving differing points of view.
(Identifying macro-invertebrates from the creek) |
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Discussing Evidence: How do scientists come to know something? I arm students with the power to make detailed observations and the ability to collect and interpret data. We engage is discussions about what is and is not useful evidence, a skill that I wish more adults had! These conversations about evidence also tie into lessons about how to be an active anti-racist, and how a lack of evidence can lead to biases and quick conclusions that can hurt groups of people.
(Second graders take notes on a crime scene: Who borrowed Mr. Bear?) |
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This video has also informed my teaching practice:
