Teaching Practice

Procedures of Teaching

The curriculum at Laboratory Elementary School (MMSU) emphasizes a student-centered learning process, commonly referred to as student-centered learning. In this process, the teacher only acts as a facilitator who facilitates students' thinking critically, finding solutions, and solving problems. Of course, the activities must be based on the lesson plans made so that learning activities take place in an organized and systematic manner. 

Procedure of Teaching in K-12 Curriculum:

1. Daily Lesson Log (DLL) or Detailed Lesson Plan (DLP)

• Teachers complete these documents on a daily or weekly basis.

• New teachers and those teaching new content must complete a DLP.

2. Integration of Standards

• Standards should permeate the education system.

• They guide curriculum, instruction, teacher preparation, professional development, and student assessment.

3. Relevant and Responsive Teaching Approach

• Teaching should be meaningful.

• It should address students' questions and concerns.

4. Constructing a Draft Philosophy

• Curriculum developers should create a philosophy.

• This philosophy guides the K-12 program.

5. Various Instructional Models and Strategies

• Teachers can use multiple instructional methods:

• Direct instruction

• Indirect instruction

• Interactive instruction

• Experiential instruction

• Independent study

Time Management and Organizing Activities

Effective time management and organizing activities are crucial in the K-12 educational setting to ensure that both teachers and students can maximize their productivity and learning outcomes.

Time Management 

1. Daily and Weekly Planning: 

• Daily Lesson Log (DLL) or Detailed Lesson Plan (DLP): Prepare these documents regularly to outline daily and weekly activities.

• Prioritize Tasks: Identify and focus on the most important tasks for the day.

2. Use of Timetables:

• Class Schedule: Develop a clear and structured class schedule that allocates specific times for each subject.

• Breaks and Transitions: Include short breaks and transition periods to help maintain student focus and energy levels.

3. Setting Realistic Goals:

• SMART Goals: Set Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals for both teaching and learning activities.

• Adjust Plans as Needed: Be flexible and willing to adjust plans based on the needs and progress of the students.

Organizing Activities for Students

1. Structured Learning Environment:

• Clear Instructions: Provide clear and concise instructions for each activity.

• Consistent Routines: Establish consistent routines for classroom activities to help students know what to expect.

2. Interactive and Engaging Activities:

• Group Work: Encourage collaborative learning through group projects and discussions.

• Hands-On Activities: Incorporate hands-on activities and experiential learning to make lessons more engaging.

3. Use of Technology:

• Digital Tools: Utilize educational software, apps, and online resources to organize and enhance learning activities.

• Multimedia Presentations: Use PowerPoint, videos, and other multimedia tools to present information engagingly.

Balancing Instruction and Assessment

1. Formative Assessments:

• Conduct regular, informal assessments to monitor student understanding and progress.

• Use quizzes, exit tickets, and classroom discussions as formative assessment tools.

2. Summative Assessments:

• Schedule periodic summative assessments, such as tests and projects, to evaluate overall student performance.

• Plan these assessments well in advance and ensure they are aligned with the learning objectives.

Reflection and Feedback

1. Reflective Practice:

• Take time at the end of each day or week to reflect on what went well and what could be improved.

• Encourage students to reflect on their own learning and set goals for improvement.

2. Feedback Mechanism:

• Provide timely and constructive feedback to students on their performance.

• Use feedback to guide future lesson planning and address any learning gaps.

Problem Solving

Teachers can tackle real-world problems with project-based learning and case studies, while collaborative tasks encourage teamwork. Using digital tools enhances learning. By following steps such as identifying, analyzing, and solving problems, students become effective problem solvers. Activities such as math puzzles, science experiments, and debates further develop their skills, preparing them for future success. 

Classroom Management

At Mariano Marcos State University Laboratory Elementary School, the time allocated for each teaching session is only 40 minutes per subject, which is quite short to present new material. To maximize this limited time, I ensure that the students remain calm and focused. Time management skills are especially needed in managing grades 3 and 4 where conditioning students takes a long time. In addition, arranging tables and chairs to suit the teaching method, such as group arrangements for discussions or row arrangements for presentations. Establishing clear and easy-to-understand rules to maintain order, such as rules about speaking, moving around, and class start times are also necessary in managing the classroom. In addition, using a variety of teaching strategies that suit students' learning styles, such as project-based learning, group discussions, and the use of technology are also important in classroom management. This method has proven to be effective, especially with my grade 3 and 4 students who are always eager and enthusiastic to participate and understand the lessons I teach.