Statement of Informed Beliefs

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different cultures through the students. Cultural Pluralism is an important aspect of a teacher’s classroom. It is important for a teacher to understand and grasp the importance of inclusion of all students and their cultures in the classroom. This “involves a mutual appreciation and understanding of the cultures various ethnic groups and the coexistence in society of different languages, religions, and lifestyles” (Berns, 2013, p. 212). It is also important for students to obtain an amount of cultural assimilation, Berns (2013, p.212), stated “cultural assimilation is the process whereby minority groups take on characteristics of the majority (dominant) ethnic group.” Schools and teachers can make sure that students are learning the english language and getting the extra help they need with writing an in other various ways that may arise. It is of utmost importance that the teachers recognize the difficulties these students face, and do her/his best to make sure they have the accommodations needed to help students succeed. This will help them fit into society when they are ready to enter the workforce. Each year during spring, Oakley Elementary School takes the opportunity to celebrate the Spanish culture. They invite Spanish dancers, have piñata’s, play some unique Spanish games and mothers of the Spanish students volunteer to make Spanish treats to share with the school. Students enjoy this day, it helps the students be exposed to the different culture of the Spanish students.

Curriculum for All Learners

As a teacher, there are so many things to take into consideration where students and curriculum are involved. Most school districts already have mandatory curriculum in place that the teacher must use and has the obligation to report progress to the district. This is the case in Cassia School District. Although a teacher may be required to use mandated curriculum, they can adjust the curriculum to fit the needs of all the students in the classroom. Through careful thought, planning and consideration of each student and their individual needs the teacher can meet the needs of each student. A combination of teacher-directed and learner-directed teaching is the best way to engage and support the students’ various needs. Teacher-directed may be the best for certain subjects where the district has strict mandates but where there is some leniency or where the teacher can add to the curiosity of students she/he can add group and student lead activities, these groups will enhance the student’s learning experiences. Jerome Bruner believed that children learn through discovery (Berns, 2013). Teachers can incorporate technology into their classrooms as another alternate form of instruction to aide in the differences of students, technology can also help with reinforcement of curriculum. This can be done for all levels of student learning, and will help with inclusion of all the students in the classroom. A successful teacher always plans lessons in advance. The teacher can make education fun and exciting, something the students look forward to every day. The teacher must also keep in mind the ultimate learning goals of each student. Howard Gardner (1999) recommends that teachers adapt curriculum to the following multiple intelligences, which he believes encompass human capability (Berns, 2013): logical mathematical, linguistic, body kinesthetic, musical, spatial, interpersonal, interpersonal, and naturalistic. A great teacher needs to assess and evaluate their student’s performance and progress on a regular basis to determine if the students are retaining the knowledge and grasping the concepts that they should be learning. Each age requires different ways of assessing, kindergarten students require more visual and one on one assessment than a sixth grade student. Assessing student’s progress not only helps to monitor student’s progress but also helps the teacher to assess how they can better teach and adapt for the students.

Conclusion

Every child is unique and different. I have four children, each with unique personalities. Some of them are so different, one would not guess they are from the same family. Teachers, must realize the impact placed on students and the important role teachers play in accepting each child’s uniqueness. It may be cultural, physical, mental or emotional, teachers must do their best to help all students succeed. All children can learn when teachers remember to adapt the curriculum and monitor the success of each student. Teachers must take into consideration a student’s microsystem and cultural background to ensure success for each student. W.B. Yeats once said, “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” As teachers, the ultimate goal should be to light a fire and create curiosity and excitement about learning. When I look back, I remember my third grade teacher and my high school biology teacher as my two greatest role models in school. I want to inspire, encourage and uplift my students the way these teachers inspired me.

References

Berns, R. M. (2013). Child, family, school, community: Socialization and support (9th ed.).

Belmont, CA: Wadsworth

Guavian, M. I., & Cole, M. (1997). (2nd ed.). Readings on the Development of Children

NY: W.H Freeman and Company.

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