Artifact 2 (reflection)
I gave two presentations about my novel, The Longest Fall during the fall of 2009. During these presentations I went through the events that inspired the novel. The book is based largely on real events that occurred during my high school years. It was during that time I lost a friend and teammate. After I told the story about my team I took questions from the kids. I was surprised how many asked me about the writing process.
I discussed the writing process in detail. I stressed the importance of revision and sharing their own unique perspective when writing. I encouraged them to write about what they are passionate about, what they know. Lastly, I touched on the publication process.
This experience made me want to become a teacher. I realized I wanted to be around kids.
I thought this artifact was most aligned with the second standard, (”The teacher has a solid foundation in the arts and sciences…”). Though I will be teaching math, I have also studied English. It’s a deeper foundation. By knowing both subjects it helps me to be a better teacher. This also relates to the standard that deals with moral character.
Artifact #1
SAT Curriculum – Math
I have included a sample SAT lesson in this portfolio. I have created a full SAT curriculum for students that I tutor for the exam. There were three main components to creating to this study guide. First, I analyzed real SAT exams I (had over a dozen). Second, I did a lot of research into the best study books on the market. I analyzed where I felt they succeeded and where I felt they were lacking. Lastly, I used my own notes and experience with students to create and modify lessons on each topic. I have linked the different concepts to real SAT problems. The result was a guide that almost any student can use to improve their score and I hope to publish this guide some day.
I think this artifact best relates to the second to last standard, “The teacher maintains up-to-date knowledge and still in the subject…”. I picked this standard because I used current research (Books) to build my lessons. I refined them based on my experience.
Artifact #3 – Letter to Prospective Parent
I think writing a letter to prospective parents/guardians is a great way to start off the school year. By telling them a little about yourself and how the class will run, it immediately helps them to become more engaged in the educational process. The letter shows them you care. They will have more confidence in you. But giving them a syllabus and access to the class website, they can actively stay involved with their child. This can help prevent problems before they occur.
This artifact most aligns with “promoting parent involvement”.