As stated in Alberta Education’s Teacher Quality Standard document, teachers who hold a Permanent Professional Certificate must demonstrate that they can “translate curriculum content and objectives into meaningful learning activities” (Ministerial Order #016/97, 1997).
I believe that I demonstrate this through the following:
- I post/discuss learning objectives in student friendly language, so that students understand what we are aiming for during the lesson/activity.
- I take learning objectives and try to create learning activities that match my students’ interests. For example, we were learning about the format of a business letter, so I had my students write a business letter to our principal lobbying for an extra store day (a topic very near and dear to their hearts!).
- I teach and encourage goal setting and reflection as a means to engage students in their own learning process.
- I try to make learning fun and/or meaningful by honing in on student interests, strengths and varied learning styles.
- I take time planning projects and activities that I believe to be highly motivating and engaging, however, I am also willing to adapt or abandon lessons/activities that aren’t working.
- I use a variety of resources, including technology to make learning come alive! I believe students should experience their learning as much as possible.
