Teaching

managing learning environment

literacy

maths

ME - point of difference

text-rich environment - posters, children's work, 'writer's corner'

mixed ability group work (experience with 'Bobby Maths'), Jo Boaler (youcubed).

problem-solving

enthusiastic, loyal, energetic, organised, efficient

reflective (inquiry / self-review)

high standards

Emerging teaching philosophy

Kaitiakitanga

growth-mindset and challenge

whanau counts

relationships

Knowing a child as thoroughly as possible and having a real and meaningful relationship with them is, I believe, key to great ‘teaching’.

I believe good teaching is more a question of good guidance and assistance – helping the children to learn what they need to pursue their interests and passions.

raising children who have a thorough appreciation of the world they are inheriting and their place in it – for good or for bad. Encourage children to believe they can make a change, to combat a sense of powerlessness with one of self-belief and knowledge.


make learning interesting, engaging

proximal praise

set expectations - clear instructions and practice

relationships with children

genuine, warm, fun, not worried about being 'silly' sometimes

reflective - who don't I know and why? (10:2)

learn names and language

love learning

make sure children understand their goals - what they're doing and why

inclusive learning environment

involve whanau

language - learn it

consider the 'fringes' with all planning

group / collaborative work

modelling and explicit teaching

minimise disruptions - don't face off in public, deal with it quietly later.

modern learning environments

choice and flexibility for students

teamworking

work to your strengths

learn from each other

take on new learning together - like a gym buddy

can be destructive - one negative vibe causing collective 'antipathy'

work out the currency and join in e.g. coffees, lunchtime exercise

whanau

noticeboard by the door

specific invites

blog / seesaw

invitations to share expertise

explicit teaching to children of manaakitanga

Inquiry learning

encourage use of manipulatives and drawing/writing the problem

pass on love of reading - read with/to and alongside

I want to be part of the ranks of teachers who are aiming to reach children through their passions – build on the strengths of what children already know, rather than fill the perceived ‘gaps’.

I would hope that children I teach are excited by learning, adopt a growth-mind set towards their own potential and experience being ‘heard’.