These 8 points are the substantial matter of creating a classroom where students can grow and learn effectively, because every lesson is trying to find and cater to every learner.
These hallmarks include :
being flexible with time, space, and materials
having shared respect between teacher and students
having "respectful" and engaging work for everyone
having a distinct link between assessment and instruction for all students
being absolute clear for students about what is expected of them
having shared responsibility between teacher and students
having the classroom be based individual growth, where each student is pining for "their best" not competing against another
and
having a "way up" never a way out
With these in tow, these hallmarks help myself as a teacher differentiate: Content, Process, and Products to ensure everyone student is gaining what they need personally from each day they are in class.
While I was reading, I was getting quite overwhelmed with all that is expected of me as a teacher. I have all these requirements to fulfill and these expectations to be aware and find opportunities every hour of everyday to incorporate into my teaching. The author of my book stated something that put some of my worries to rest, for the time being. She said something along the lines of this, "teachers need to vulnerable, they need to work hard, and come to terms with the fact that we are not perfect. We will forget to do things, but as long as we do out best, and keep trying to improve, our students will benefit."
What a comforting statement that was.
If I just apply myself, learn all I can, and apply all I learn, then KEEP learning, I can be a good and passionate teacher.
Also in class today, we were shown a video of PS22 (Public School 22) in New York City, who's Mr. B changed the lives, and continues to change lives, through the power of music.
If everyone teacher, including myself remembered this man's passion and integrated it into their own, and mine own teaching, no children would REALLY be left behind, ever.
No child would feel inadequate or unable to do something.
No child should ever feel like they can't do something, they are always capable, even if it takes a little practice, a lot of practice, or a change in view.
I want to be a teacher like Mr. B. When he said, "If you close up in 5th [or younger] you [run the risk] could close up for your whole childhood" I felt that his views are very much imbedded in the person I want to be for my future students and I feel strongly that the Hallmark 8 can facilitate that for my classroom. I know that teaching will be difficult and it isn't the easiest route to take career wise, but it is the most life changing and rewarding.
Mr. B is what I want to be, the Hallmark 8 is what I want to use.
Passion and pure caring for my students is what I want them to feel.
This was a wonderful post! I like seeing what you think and feel, and knowing that you are doing the reading and considering how to make your dreams come true... to make a difference for your students! (3 pts.)
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