2b. Establishing a Culture for Learning

• Importance of the content and of learning
• Expectations for learning and achievement
• Student pride in work

The classroom culture is a cognitively busy place, characterized by a shared belief in the importance of learning. The teacher conveys high expectations for learning for all students and insists on hard work; students assume responsibility for high quality by initiating improvements, making revisions, adding detail, and/or assisting peers in their precise use of language.

This is another component demonstrated by lessons like the socratic seminar where students are taking ownership of the classroom and demonstrating a genuine interest in learning. I try to instill this positive energy by demonstrating my own passion for reading as well, as demonstrated in the attached "Best Lesson Ever." Essay drafting is another way to encourage the idea of revision for the sake of bettering oneself, which happens consistently in my classes. I really enjoy conferencing with students on their writing, and there is usually a positive response from them as well.