Wow! Thanks to those who have shared so far on their Key Beliefs when it comes to language arts. If you’ve not viewed the comments — do so now! Just click HERE.
So back in January, I wrote a professional manifesto. (I posted it below.) Click here to see a recent reflection on it. Upon reviewing it, I believe it is my key beliefs for teaching reading & writing. I’m hung up on sending it in, though. I’m not sure if it’s too long . . . or too short . . . or too general.
Thoughts? Advice? More ideas?
I BELIEVE IN . . .
- Teaching Students. I became a teacher to influence the lives of adolescents, not to change the world through a subject. My instructional decisions are always based on students’ needs – not the demands of a subject.
- Embracing Imperfection. Whenever we learn new things, we aren’t perfect at first. One of the most important things I can do for student writers and readers is to support their approximations – even when they’re not perfect.
- Standards Based Lessons. Although students drive the approach to instruction, the Indiana State Standards drive the curriculum. These are the goals that we’re aiming to achieve.
- Working Together. Being part of a team, working together for the greater good, is essential for successful teaching.
- Being a Reader and a Writer. If I expect students to be active readers and writers, then I must be one too. It is through the daily grind of writing and the daily thinking about literature that I can most effectively teach students.
- Connecting. As a teacher, I must first connect to students and learn about their interests and family life. Then I can connect content to their lives in meaningful ways by tailoring texts and projects to their “real worlds.” I strive to connect technology to our work as well. Facilitating student connections is also a crucial task so they can learn the essential skill of working together.
- Making it Real. I first help students see the importance of reading and writing to their lives today. It is then that I can help them see the importance of the subject to the world outside of school.
- Expecting Plenty. The more we expect of our students, the more they rise to the occasion. One of the reasons I love education is the chance for students to start fresh each year.
- Loving. Before students care to know about language arts, they must know I care about them. Developing a caring community is the basis of my approach to curriculum.
- Always Learning. Being a life long learner is a key to being a successful educator. When students know I’m learning and trying new ideas, they are more likely to want to learn too. It is through professional readings, conferences, and discussions that I am able to continue to grow as an educator.