How do I address a wide range of skill levels?

Creativity, Energy and Flexibility.

A good teacher is able to combine all three aspects (creativity, energy and flexibility) into their teaching to best accommodate any situation. Every class of students I have taught has displayed a wide range of skill level regarding their achievement in music. Instrumental musicians have a tendency to widen this gap as time passes because of the impact of motivation, practice, and inherent talent on one’s achievement. In order to accommodate for this, I have written musical arrangements, researched compositions that allow for a broad skill level, and changed seating plans to pair stronger and weaker students together. Most importantly, I try to narrow that achievement gap through various activities in and out of the classroom. As appropriate, I have also changed class time assignments for instrumental music students to best challenge each student and the school environment allows. Additionally, I developed and implemented a motivational program to help narrow the gap between those students who are naturally talented and those who need more support.

In order to accomplish all of the above, a good teacher needs energy and flexibility. Good teaching requires a lot of thought, productivity, and plenty of effort to implement the great ideas that flow through one’s mind throughout the days. An action-oriented personality is essential. Alongside lots of energy, a good teacher knows that flexibility is a core component of any successful classroom. Plans always need to be ready for interruptions, unexpected circumstances, and everything else that comes with teaching children.