This I believe (now) about teaching English…
It is all about literacy!...
Students need a learning environment that is encouraging and respectful.
My classroom needs be literature-rich; where what we read is made stimulating and relevant.
Reading and writing require a foundation. To build this foundation, all aspects of reading and writing need to be addressed (visual, auditory, physical, intellectual, and emotional).
There is no set way to read, and there is no one way to learn.
Students need choice. Kids need some options as to what they read and write about in class. They also need to be given different ways to express themselves when they are to discuss. Many kids prefer to draw, or act, than to simply write a paper. *Also, since all students learn differently, their evaluation should also come in a variety of forms, as to be able to best identify each student’s learning and progress.
The multi-layered aspects of the English language should be exposed and appreciated.
I should be learning right along with my students. After all, learning is a never ending process.
What my students learn in their English class will support/influence them in many other areas of their academic and social lives.
