During my second observational experience I found I was more effective at identifying literacy concepts in classes. I witnessed many strategies implemented with varying success in different content areas. I have made many direct connections to the Connecticut Common Core of Learning and The Connecticut Common Core of Teaching. By identifying these standards for this class during my observations, I am a step closer to implementing them successfully into my classroom.
Ms. B has proven to me to be a very effective educator. As I attempt to address as many of our course objectives as possible, Ms. B allowed me to "analyze the literacy process, and instructional strategies for the development of vocabulary and comprehension." By observing different levels of classes and content areas, especially and ESL class I have grasped "teaching and reinforcing language arts (reading, writing, listening, speaking, viewing and visually representing) skills and concepts throughout the curriculum" as stated in the Connecticut Certification Standards (2003).
Mr. M provided me with an opportunity to see the content area I chose in a whole new light. His method of teaching ESL students was an excellent example of selecting and using materials, resources and technology appropriate to the age, developmental level, cultural and linguistic backgrounds and exceptionalities of students as stated in the CT certification standards. I have no question of Mr. M's content knowledge, and his endeavors with the ESL students seem to have invigorated his passion for teaching. It has required him to "seek opportunities to grow professionally�and demonstrate a commitment to [his] students and a passion for improving [his] profession" as stated in the Connecticut Common Core of Teaching. Both Ms. B and Mr. M "employ a variety of instructional strategies that enable students to think critically, solve problems and demonstrate skills." (CCC of T Section 1)
Students of both teachers are clearly addressing the objectives of the Connecticut Common Core of Learning Program Goals. Mr. M has helped students lacking proficient English skills to "understand and apply basic concepts, principles and theories of biology�and their interrelationships" by helping the students make connections to the concepts in two languages. Ms. B's classes clearly have built cognitive bridges to "demonstrate knowledge of the structure of the United States and world history to understand life and events in the past and how they relate to one's own life experiences," and to "describe relationships among the individual, the groups and institutions which exist in any society and culture."
I felt my time was effectively spent at Norwich Free Academy. Both teachers I observed displayed various teaching styles using a variety of literacy techniques. Most importantly they showed me how to "recognize the need to vary their instruction methods" to meet the needs of their students. (CCC of T Section 1)