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I strive to provide a safe an
inviting atmosphere for my students to help them get excited about
learning. The layout of my room
allows me to move about freely, yet the tables are positioned close enough
together to promote sharing of ideas among students. Two large screens and a SMART Board
display the notes and examples that I discuss during the lesson allowing
easy viewing for all students.
Even though my class routine
is somewhat structured, I try to make my students feel welcomed and relaxed. Each day begins with a review of the
homework assignment from the previous class. If a student has questions on any of the
homework problems, he/she lists the numbers of those problems on the small
dry-erase board that hangs on the wall by the door where they enter. This not only saves time by letting me
know which problems need to be discussed, it also helps students feel more
comfortable to ask questions and not feel embarrassed about it.
Following the daily lesson,
students begin working on the assigned problems. I use this time to help students
individually as needed, to ensure they gained an understanding of the new
concept.
Artifact 2: Cowley Coupon
I encourage input from students
in my class by rewarding them if they correct an error that I have made
during the daily lesson. I find that this not only helps them to be more
attentive, but it shows them that I welcome their feedback and support, and
helps to establish a climate of trust and teamwork.
It is so exciting when a
student offers his/her solution to a math problem that is different from
mine. It shows that the student has
a firm understanding of the concept and is able to approach it from an
angle not presented in class.
To reward students who find
my mistakes or share sound mathematical solutions, I present them with a
Cowley Coupon, valued at one to three points, that they may apply to a quiz
or test grade to raise their score.
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