Pedagogy

Students excel most when they are exposed to rigorous, authentic, and personalized learning opportunities that expand their worldview as scholars and citizens. Through the close study of literature, poetry, and nonfiction texts, students gain an understanding of the structure of English language, effective communication skills, and the ability to think critically that will help them make informed decisions inside and outside of the classroom. Students learn best when they explore and challenge themselves with complex learning materials that engage their minds and curiosity through critical reading and writing, student-driven learning, and collaboration with peers.

This model of close reading, discussion, collaboration, and creation supports a community of engaged learners who grow cognitively, socially, and emotionally in an environment that connects their experiences to the real world. Through differentiated lessons, discussion, and the frequent assessment of student progress, all students can achieve more, and each day in my class will give students the tools and opportunities to be better readers, writers, and thinkers. Assessment of learning and knowledge will be the foundation of teaching and learning in the classroom. By developing metacognition and the ability to create goals, students will be empowered and invested in increasing their achievement, and I will support this by creating opportunities for self-assessment and consistently providing specific, quality feedback on student performance.

At the end of the school year, students should walk away with a higher appreciation for literature, their peers, and their learning, as well as communication and critical thinking skills that will aid them in the years to come.