Learning Environment  

INTASC Standard #3 Learning Environments:  The teacher works with others to create environments that support individual and collaborative learning, and that encourage positive social interaction, active engagement in learning, and self-motivation. 

The teacher collaborates with learners in setting expectations for a learning climate that includes openness, mutual respect, support, and inquiry and in sharing those expectations with learners’ families. (3a; 3b; 3c; 3f; 3n; 3r) 

 (Narrative): Kindergarten is typically the grade that helps children become "good at school.” This includes routine and challenging ways to exercise the brain and social skills they will be expected to maintain as they advance through elementary school. During my 2021 fall placement, I spent time in a kindergarten classroom that held on average eighteen to twenty-one young students. Due to COVID19, the children learned at various paces and difficulty levels. Along with following the curriculum, classroom time was spent helping the children catch up on basic manners and social skills. Before every game or partner activity, the students were asked to review the Rules for Playing Games and discuss the appropriate ways to handle victories and losses. This would include "that's okay, better luck next time" or "we both did a good job" and cooperation with others, keeping voices low, and trying to settle problems quietly within your group before going to a teacher. 

(Reflection): Classroom guidelines help create a classroom environment of engagement and self-motivation to create successful peer relationships. Posting visuals around the classroom that students can refer to as needed is both a great scaffold and reminder. This activity additionally promotes civic responsibility.