A Peek Into My Classroom
About: Where I Taught: Horace Mann Elementary
Horace Mann Elementary is a Title I school in Ogden, Utah.
School Vision: "Each student at Horace Mann will learn at the highest levels possible. Faculty, students, and families will partner together to make sure that each student is successful in math, reading, science, and other academic areas in a warm, happy, learning environment." |
About: What I Taught: 6th Grade
I taught 6th grade English Language Arts and Social Studies from 2013-2017. As a believer in technology's positive impact on student learning, my teaching incorporated a lot of different technologies and software to insure students were engaged and challenged as 21st century learners.
About: Evolution Of Teaching Practices: TPACK
I used TPACK, so that my technology integration was more effective. TPACK stands for Content (CK), Pedagogy (PK), and Technology (TK). Content knowledge and Pedagogy must be considered before incorporating an appropriate form of technology. When all three forms of knowledge are considered, the sweet spot of technology integration occurs.
Reproduced by permission of the publisher, © 2012 by tpack.org
It was important that students left the classroom learning how to critically think about problems, real world issues, and how to develop questions. My classroom had elements of a blended classroom. Students were also challenged in my classroom with project based learning. It engaged them with real world connections. My end of level yearly test scores often positively reflected the learning experiences my students had.
Students in my classroom not only participated in hands on experiences but physical education and exercise during class. These activities were meant as a positive rewards. Developing relationships with these students beyond just classroom time was important. Interacting with them during their reward and recess was a good way to get to know them.
About Lesson Plans: Professional Learning Communities
Each week for 90 minutes, teachers at Horace Mann Elementary participate in a Professional Learning Community(PLC) meeting. During PLC meetings the 6th grade team worked very closely together to to analyze data from student work. We used this data along with the Common Core State Standards to inform our instruction. The team also collaborated on various lesson plans and assessments to insure students get the best experience possible.
All teachers, including the 6th grade team, build 6-8 week lesson plan overviews and more in depth 2 week lesson plans to insure teaching is organized.
All teachers, including the 6th grade team, build 6-8 week lesson plan overviews and more in depth 2 week lesson plans to insure teaching is organized.