"A strength-based classroom is a place

where students with all sorts of labels

come together as equals to form

a new type of learning environment"

- Thomas Armstrong Ph.D. -

Teaching Philosophy

Goals and Classroom Implementation

My philosophy of education is that all students are unique and moldable and therefore must have a stimulating educational environment where they can grow physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. This environment is centered around have meaningful educational goals for each student that suit their individual needs.

How this looks in practice is utilizing differentiated instruction and strengths-based education modelling through inquiry-based learning, curriculum mapping,

and having meaningful student voice and choice within the classroom.

It is my mission and goal to create this type of atmosphere within my classroom, where students are provided the opportunities to meet their full potential.

Students need a learning environment that is conducive to learning, one where they feel safe, and can express themselves. This classroom is one that embraces

our differences to showcase the different perspectives in our classroom that make us unique.

Curriculum

Lessons that are developed and implemented are connected to curriculum standards, student engagement, and cross-curricular connections.

• Create lessons that are rooted in the program of studies, and challenges students to connect the concepts to real-world application.

• Promote literacy, problem-solving, collaboration, scientific literacy, and application to common life skills for all students.

Assessment

Assessments are student-centered and varied to measure the knowledge gained by each student based on their specific learner needs.

• Summative Assessment including the use of assignments and tests to show mastery of the lesson objectives.

• Formative Assessment to assess the student's learning on an on-going basis, and assessing the need for adjustments in lessons to meet the needs of the student(s).

Example: When the results of an activity show that the student's are not adequately grasping the concept, instructional plans are adjusted.

Having differentiation in your instruction allows for further student engagement, and connecting with students in ways that best fit their learning needs.

• Informal Assessment is ongoing monitoring of the student's learning objectives and grasp of concepts to evaluate student comprehension and the potential need for differentiation in lessons.

• Student Self-Assessment allows for student's to understand and assess their own learning goals and comprehension of concepts.

Example: Students think and write about what they have learned in a P.E. lesson, explaining the strategies that worked best for them, and their understanding of the lesson.

• Daily Learning Journals: Daily brief reflection exercise that allows student's to express their understanding and connection to lesson(s) on a private personal level.

• Peer Teaching: Students who are able to teach the lesson concepts to other students in small groups show their mastery and comprehension of the concept.

Classroom Management

"No significant learning occurs without a significant relationship" - Dr. James Comer -

• The classroom environment is centered around being respectful of others, accountability, and readiness to learn

• To have effective classroom management, it is imperative that you have a significant relationship with your students where you understand where they are coming from.

• Teaching is about creating optimal learning environments, where the classroom environment is conducive to learning.

• Students develop habits that reinforce independent learning capabilities, as well as collaboration between peers.

Differentiation:

Having experienced and worked in a variety of school environments, from urban and rural schools, to inner-city schools to special education classrooms. I have gained experience and knowledge in diverse school environments. When creating lessons I take into consideration the student(s) background, culture, knowledge and skill levels, and learning styles and provide differentiation in learning based on these factors.

• Create meaningful experiences that connect with students on an individual, group, and classroom level. Incorporating student's heritage, culture, and interests into lessons to make meaningful connection to the student.

• Develop diverse methods of instructional teaching and technology so that there is an incorporation of kinesthetic, auditory, and visual teaching styles.

• Utilizing technology to engage with students and enhance lessons.

Example: Incorporating Blookit into homework activities that allows students to do homework in an effective, engaging manner.