Classroom Ideology
Classroom Management
Together as a class, we decide upon on our classroom rules. It is important that my students have a sense of ownership in the classroom and see it as a safe and welcoming space they can call their own. My classroom management style relies heavily on positive reinforcement. In my classroom, students are rewarded for positive behavior, following expectations and procedures, and receiving compliments from other teachers or staff. I believe in individual rewards as well as whole class rewards. One of my favorite classroom management strategies is the "Classroom Economy". Students earn money by doing their classroom jobs, being on task, good behavior, following directions, weekly allowance, etc. On the other hand, students can lose money when they are not making good choices. At the end of the semester, students use the money they earned to shop at the classroom store to buy items such as books, pencils, fidget toys, mini games, or other items the students enjoy. Additionally, "Classroom Economy" can be tied into learning about the value of money in real life and with the money unit in math.​
Interactive Learning
Interactive learning is vital to the elementary classroom. Students who are actively participating in their own learning are more motivated and willing to explore new topics and ideas. In my classroom, students participate in hands-on activities where they can interact with the lesson, materials, and their fellow classmates. Students engage in whole group instruction, small group instruction, one-on-one conferences, partner work, group work, and individual work. In doing this, students have a say in their learning and are able to become active participants in lessons, projects, and activities. Students also engage in "Think, Jot, Pair, Share" or "Think, Pair, Share" discussions during lessons. They each are provided with accountable talk prompts that we use throughout the year to ensure everyone is contributing to the conversation and responding to one another respectfully. Overall, I strive to create an environment where my students are excited to learn and feel comfortable doing so. ​
Formal & Informal Assessments
Formal and informal assessments are important to the creation of my lessons. Examples of formal assessments I use in my classroom include but are not limited to quizzes, tests, writing samples, projects, exit tickets, and pre and post assessments given before and after units. Data from formal assessments is used to guide my lesson planning and to see where the students are succeeding and where they need extra assistance (topics that need to be clarified or retaught). By using data on student performance, I can reflect on which lessons or units worked well and which ones might need to be altered or taught another way. I also use this data to create small groups where I either reinforce or enrich student learning. Formal and informal assessments also provide data that contributes to data tracking which tracks each specific students progress. Some forms of informal assessment that I use in my classroom include whole group questioning, individual questioning, conferences, classroom observations, and anecdotal notes. Both formal and informal assessments help me provide my students with the support and teaching they need in order to succeed.
Technology
Here, the students are developing code on Scratch to display images and symbol on their MicroBits.
Integrating technology in the classroom can enhance learning, prepare students for the future, and facilitate collaboration and communication. Newer technologies such as interactive whiteboards, online assessment tools, and educational websites and games can be very engaging and motivating for students. Many educational websites and games allow the teacher to personalize and differentiate the tasks for each student. Therefore, students can work at their own pace and learn in the way that is best for them. These websites also provide teachers with data that can be used to assess the students. Teachers can provide their students with instant feedback as well as use the data to plan for future lessons and small group instruction. Exposure to the use of technology can prepare students for the future as they are growing up in a digital era that is continuing to evolve and expand. It is important that students learn how to use and interact with technology so they can develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Technology also allows students to connect and collaborate on a digital platform. They can work together on projects, presentations, and tasks on various websites and communicate through digital chat or video. Tools such as Google Classroom provide teachers with a handy way of communicating with students and posting necessary assignments. Technology plays an important part in my classroom and for my students.
**All parents signed media consent forms allowing pictures of their students to be taken and shared**
Family Communication
Communication between the teacher and student families plays an important part in the students education. In my classroom, there are several ways parents can get involved and stay updated about what is going on in the classroom and at school. For instance, I send weekly newsletters to let parents know what students will be working on that week in addition to any events the school might be having. A new idea for the next school year is creating a classroom Facebook page or website to post pictures of students (with permission) and student work so they can see what their children are doing in the classroom. Additionally, I have opportunities for families to visit the classroom. This includes field trips, special events or activities, and birthdays. When families want to discuss their students progress in the classroom, I set up parent-teacher conferences to answer any questions or concerns. Finally, I use a communication app (Remind or Class Dojo) that families can use to contact me in addition to email.
Differentiation
Differentiation is an important element to implement in the classroom. As an elementary teacher, it is my job to recognize that students have different strengths, weaknesses, learning styles, and interests, and that I need to provide instruction that meets these diverse needs. One way I differentiate instruction is with flexible grouping. Here, I group students based on their abilities or learning styles, and then provide instruction that meets the needs of each group. Additionally, I meet with each of these small groups to reinforce or extend their learning. It is important to note that these groups are flexible, meaning that the groupings will change throughout the year based on student progress and need. In tandem, I also provide my students with individualized instruction. Here I engage in one-on-one instruction or conferencing to address the specific needs of the individual students. During lessons, student may receive a differentiated independent task based on data from pre-assessments, exit tickets, or classroom observations. Students may also be assigned to work in groups or with a partner so they can learn and respond to each other. I also use technology as a means to differentiate lessons. There are several websites and online resources that can be adjusted to meet each students needs and abilities.
Classroom Set-Up & Organization
Each table group has a table dictionary and mini anchor charts for reading, writing, and math that they can use to support their learning throughout the day.
The set-up of my classroom includes but is not limited to a classroom robust library, a carpet area near the whiteboard, flexible table groupings, efficient storage for myself and the students, and flexible seating. I always decorate my classroom with a fun and engaging theme that makes the classroom feel welcoming. Throughout the year, the walls of the classroom are covered with student work, anchor charts, and learning resources. Additionally, I have a designated spot for small group work and one on one/small group conferences. It is important that my classroom is engaging and inviting for my students and co-workers.
Social Emotional Learning
Social Emotional Learning is an important piece of my teaching philosophy. As part of my Morning Meeting I include a mini-lesson for SEL. These mini-lessons include teaching students about social skills such as identifying and managing emotions, practicing empathy and compassion, developing positive relationships, making responsible decisions, etc. The SEL lessons would include interactive activities including games, videos, read-alouds, drawing, role-playing, and discussions.
Community Involvement
I fully immerse myself into the school community by volunteering my time on the weekends, as well as before, during, and after school to help with and attend various school events. During my time at PS 376, I have volunteered my time to assist with performances, events, and after-school clubs. Being involved with the school community is vital as the students and parents enjoy and appreciate seeing teachers at these events.
