Student learning is enhanced by a teacher’s skillful use of resources. Some of these are provided by the school as “official” materials; others are secured by teachers through their own initiative. Resources fall into several different categories: those used in the classroom by students, those available beyond the classroom walls to enhance student learning, resources for teachers to further their own professional knowledge and skill, and resources that can provide noninstructional assistance to students. Teachers recognize the importance of discretion in the selection of resources, selecting those that align directly with the learning outcomes and will be of most use to the students. Accomplished teachers also ensure that the selection of materials and resources is appropriately challenging for every student; texts, for example, are available at various reading levels to make sure all students can gain full access to the content and successfully demonstrate understanding of the learning outcomes. Furthermore, expert teachers look beyond the school for resources to bring their subjects to life and to assist students who need help in both their academic and nonacademic lives.
Danielson, C. 2013
I applied extensive research to find valuable resources for my group's 3rd grade social studies unit plan. In order to teach about the different native tribes in the community, we provided 50 appropriately challenging books, online sites, software games, and videos that directly align with the learning outcomes as well as be useful for the students. These are also resources available beyond the school's resources.
This manipulative portfolio exemplifies practiced utilization of resources. As a student, learning math can be a difficult concept. Manipulatives can be (and is) a powerful resource to implement, especially when instructing a foundational math concept. This can regulate and connect challenging problems for students. I hope to initiate and secure math manipulatives in my future classroom.