As I browsed my latest copy of the NSTA Reports (January 2014), I came across an article on page 15 entitled Teaching Strategies. I glanced over and thought this would be great for a beginning teacher. The article comments on chapter 7 of "Rise and Shine" an NSTA publication. By: Linda Froschauer and Mary L. Bigelow
As I read the article in more detail, I realized that even a veteran teacher could benefit from a reminder of good teaching practices. Students should be engaged and motivated each and every lesson. When you may not be feeling on form yourself, that can be difficult to achieve. A new semester is a perfect time to make some changes. I decided to go back to grassroots and re-evaluate my strategies. I'll take another look into my own personal toolbox, developed over the the years, what can I add, take out, replace? The article reminded me of how much I had forgotten!
I really enjoyed reading the article you found, Liz. From the perspective of a new teacher, motivating students has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding aspects of the classroom I've experienced thus far. The article touched upon some key components that I have been trying to find the right balance between--providing enough scaffolding and modeling to spark students' confidence while still providing assignments with enough rigor to challenge what they have already learned.
ReplyDeleteI have the article hanging behind my desk. I think it will serve as a helpful reminder/motivator of "good" teaching practices as the semester progresses! :)