Portfolio > In the Classroom

The following photographs offer just a small sample of the activities that I led during my semester three praxis experience. These photos are meant to illustrate my teaching philosophy as well as provide a preview of what my classroom might look like.

This is my favourite picture for several reasons. First it shows three students deeply involved and focused on their work. The entire picture is in focus except for the one student's hand at the top. Wearing their art smocks, they're getting messy (in the best possible sense). None are standing either; they're all working in a way that works best for them.

In this photo students are constructing farm models. As a part of our farming unit, the morning was spent with students rotating to various stations to complete their models. This project required a large amount of planning and organization and was assisted by several parent volunteers. Students were able to combine their farming knowledge stemming from the social studies "People Nearby" curriculum as well as parts of the science "Building Things" unit. This demonstrates my passion for integrating units whenever possible. Our farming unit also included components of art, PE, ICT, language arts and math.

This picture shows a student sketching a chicken. The assignment began with me reading Harriet Ziefert's picture book Pete's Chicken, about a student who draws a colourful chicken for art class but is made fun of because of his unrealistic portrayal. Students then proceded to sketch their own chickens beginning with a Sharpie marker and colouring it as they saw fit. By using the Sharpie, students were able to embrace their mistakes and focus instead on expressing themselves. The assignment concluded with students sharing their art to the class and the class responding with what they liked about each piece.

Learning is not something that should be done alone. We all have strengths and weaknesses that need developing. By working in teams or small groups, students compliment one anothers' skills and learning styles. Learning should also be fun. Work shouldn't be relegated to worksheets and desk work. I believe that learning can happen anywhere, whether it's in the classroom, in the halls, outside or on field trips to the surrounding community. Students should be encouraged to work where they feel most comfortable according to the work that needs to be done.

Learning is a team effort. As such, learners must be given a chance to build their teamwork skills. Here is a group of students working together to get across the gym by not stepping outside of the hulahoops. The task can only be completed by making an action plan in advance, trying it out and revising, and communication. These are all attributes I will strive to emphasize with my students.