Standard Seven: Engagement with Elementary Subject Matter
Teachers create learning experiences using a broad base of general knowledge that reflects an understanding of the nature of the world in which we live. (RIPTS #1)
Teachers create learning experiences that reflect an understanding of central concepts, structures, and tools of inquiry of the disciplines they teach. (RIPTS #2)
In what ways does the student teacher:
demonstrate understanding and enthusiasm in the elementary disciplines – children’s literature, reading, writing, math, problem solving, science, social studies, art, technology, health, physical education?
understand how knowledge in each discipline is created, organized and linked to other disciplines? (RIPTS #2.1)
use subject knowledge to carefully select instructional materials and resources based on their comprehensiveness, accuracy and usefulness? (RIPTS #2.3)
use precise and appropriate language to convey content accurately and understandably? (RIPTS #8.1)
demonstrate a broad knowledge base that could be used to create interdisciplinary learning experiences? (RIPTS #1.2)
demonstrate an awareness of means of explanation and multiple representations of concepts (including analogies, metaphors, experiments, demonstrations, illustrations) that help students develop a conceptual understanding? (RIPTS #2.4)
represent and use differing viewpoints, theories and methods of inquiry when teaching concepts and encourage students to see, question, and interpret concepts from a variety of perspectives? (RIPTS #2.5)
mediate the tension between content and skills demands in the subject areas? (RIPTS #2.2)
demonstrate an ability to present subject matter in culturally responsive ways, which assumes a knowledge of cultures and backgrounds present in the classroom? (RIPTS #1.1)
exhibit a commitment to learning about the changes in their disciplines and in our world that models a commitment to lifelong learning for students. (RIPTS #1.3)
Meeting Standard Seven at the End of SummerPrep:
The teacher candidate demonstrates general knowledge and initial mastery of the skills and knowledge bases central to the elementary disciplines. Interest in, and energy for these disciplines, is demonstrated through the finding of information and materials, and the creation of conceptually driven lessons. Lessons present students with challenging activities and projects, engage them in culturally responsive ways, and encourage them to solve problems, raise questions and interact in ways that contribute to a positive learning environment. At the end of SummerPrep, the teacher candidate understands his/her strengths and weaknesses in the various elementary disciplines and has a plan for addressing those weaknesses.