4. Learning Environment

This lesson was the introduction to the technology unit. It was discussion based, and required students to think about how technology has changed, the impact that it has on society, and how it will continue to influence us in the future. 

By creating this lesson, it showed my ability to analyze "the classroom environment and make decisions to enhance cultural and linguistic responsiveness, mutual respect, positive social relationships, student motivation, and classroom engagement" (4L). Classroom discussion can be interesting, mainly because the classes I taught this lesson to were complete opposites. One was extremely quiet, and the other could be exceedingly chatty. However, both exceeded expectations when it came time to discuss.

Discussion is important in a social studies classroom, and that it why this lesson is important to my portfolio. It is also important because it shows that I was able to create an environment where my students felt comfortable enough to express themselves and felt that their voice was going to be heard and valued. 

This artifact is a video of me leading discussion during my government class (the full lesson plan can be seen under Standard 3: Planning for Differentiated Instruction). During the first half of the class, students were given a statement regarding freedom of speech, and then had to say whether they agreed/disagreed. From there, they had to talk to three classmates with different statements. We ended the period with whole class discussion which is seen here.

This lesson shows that I understand "factors (e.g., self-efficacy, positive social interaction) that influence motivation and engagement" (4B). This class is so responsive to discussion in part because of the learning environment I have created with students. I created an environment of mutual respect, where students felt comfortable enough to share their thoughts, even if they have different views than their peers.

As I mentioned above, discussion is an essential part of the social studies classroom. This video shows that I can lead discussion, and use it as an effective learning tool. It also gives a great look at me as a teacher. I try and listen to as many students as a I can, and make sure that I thoroughly understand their views. It also shows my ability to move forward if I make a mistake - there are several instances in the video where I messed up, but was able to laugh at myself and have my students laugh along with me.