As a
social studies educator, I believe encouraging active learning in the classroom
is a priority. Therefore, I plan my lesson around essential questions and
develop a variety of engaging activities to motivate students. I plan
fun, interactive, lessons that keep students interested and on-task. My
lessons require students to read, write, research, discuss, and demonstrate
they have met lesson objectives. Some of the teaching methods I use
frequently include: simulation, role play, formal debate, primary source
analysis, having students write and perform raps or other performance pieces,
creation of political cartoons or newspapers, and interactive lecture.
I always teach social studies as a process of
research, analytic reflection, and debate. This involves
not only developing a general knowledge of historical events, but also an
understanding of the significance of those events. I facilitate this
through Socratic guided questioning. This method helps students to form
their own historical conclusions and reflect on their own
values. I also encourage students to read critically and
deepen their understanding of texts through modeling and reciprocal
teaching.
I maintain high expectations of my students. I believe it is essential to
take an interest in each student as an individual. I strive to
familiarize myself with their talents and abilities so I am able to
differentiate instruction based upon each student’s needs. My experiences
have taught me to appreciate diversity and I demonstrate its value to students
through collaborative projects and activities. Finally, I am sure to
convey to my students that I genuinely care about them. This helps me
build a positive and respectful rapport with my students.
I believe a sense of community must be incorporated into the
classroom. I currently volunteer with Chicago HOPES as a tutor for
students living in homeless shelters. I have also organized various
school fundraisers and donation drives. Since local communities have
historically supported public education, I strive to teach students to act as
active citizens within their community. I also encourage students to appreciate
and take advantage of the resources their community has to offer. I plan
lessons that educate students about local history, and ways they can contribute
to their community so they can develop a better sense of civic
responsibility.
To manage my classroom, I establish clear routines and expectations. I am
sure to keep accurate records, and provide frequent feedback to students and
parents. When dealing with behavioral issues, I do my best to be
non-confrontational. I have found humor is a useful tool to help defuse
potential behavior problems. I always address minor issues immediately at
the classroom level to prevent them from escalating.
Teaching is more than presenting students with vital information; it is also
about encouraging students to develop a vast array of useful skills. The
active learning opportunities I design, encourage higher level thinking,
and promote the development of strong communication skills. When
possible, I integrate technology into many of my lessons to motivate students
and ensure they acquire the essential computer skills they will need in the
future. I have developed webquests, Facebook research projects, Prezi
presentations, SMART Board activities, and a classroom wiki. I also update
a course website on a weekly basis. Last, I design lessons that align
with the common core standards and reinforce literacy skills by requiring
students to read informational social studies texts.
Since it has been my experience that students are more motivated in classes
which they believe are important, I strive to convey the significance of the
social studies to students as well. I connect lessons to
current events and issues whenever possible to demonstrate the importance of
content. To pique student interest, I also often relate class activities
to the popular culture. Not only do my students study historical events
and figures, they also question and discuss how the social studies are relevant
today.
I believe my most important responsibility as an educator is to encourage
students to become independently motivated life-long, learners. I set an
example for my students by strengthen my content knowledge with each lesson I
plan. I have continued to study history at a graduate level, and I strive
to expand my teaching repertoire. My enthusiasm and positive attitude,
demonstrate to students my sincere interest in the social studies, and motivate
them to develop an independent interest in learning.
