What is component 3a? Teachers need to communicate with students on an everyday basis. Teachers need to convey that teaching and learning are purposeful and make that purpose clear to students. Teachers must provide clear directions for class activities, so students know what is required of them to do. When teachers introduce new concepts and information they should be present with accuracy, clarity and imagination. Skilled teachers with analogies or metaphors to keep the students engaged in the lesson and link lessons to their interests and other classes. Teachers encourage students to think on their own, but the information should be accurate and reflect deep thinking and understanding. The teacher’s use of language is rich and error free, giving the opportunity for students to hear the teacher’s language and extend their vocabularies. Teachers must present complex concepts in way that provide scaffolding and access to students.
Why is it needed? Component 3a, communication with students is needed in the classroom to keep students engaged in the lesson. Teachers need to communicate with students to keep students feeling welcomed and know the teachers cares for them. Teachers need to communicate when giving instructions and expectations. It would be difficult for student engagement if the teacher does not give clear directions for class management. Students need purposeful activities and assessments. Teachers need to watch their vocabulary and language so students and understand the directions and lessons. Teachers need to connect to the student’s interests to keep the class engaged and wanting to learn.
What are the elements of component 3a? Expectations for learning. The goals for learning need to be communicated clearly to students. By the end of each lesson, students are clear about what they have been learning. One example, students learning a new science concept which is not clear at the beginning of the lesson, but they should have a clear understanding towards the end of the lesson. Directions and procedures. Students are clear about what they are expected to do during a lesson. Students need to have clear instructions when working independently or with classmates. The directions should be provided orally, in writing or in a combination of the two. Explanations of content. Teachers need to use vivid language and imaginative analogies and metaphors that connect to student interests. These metaphors and analogies need to connect to students’ lives outside of school to really engage them in the learning. Explanations are clear with scaffolding. Teachers need to be ready for misconceptions as well. Use of oral and written language. The teacher’s use of language represents their students model of accurate syntax (wording of words) and rich vocabulary.
How can it be implemented in the classroom? Teacher explain the purpose of the lesson before starting the lesson. Having students included in the what they think should be the purpose. An example would be introducing addition students might say the purpose would be learning something new, or the purpose would be learning how to add two things together. Keeping student involved in setting goals will keep them engage and want to learn. Teachers need to give clear instructions when presenting an activity, so students know what is expected of them and, so they get the best learning from the activity. Teachers need to talk to their students and get to know each and every one of their students. Teachers welcoming their students in the morning and interacting with them will give students a sense of safety and will feel like they are cared for. Teachers need to invest in the lives of their students and not going communicate inside the classroom but also outside the classroom. This could be going to sporting events, going to the local supermarket and more.
Sources: The Framework for Teaching Evaluation Instrument. (2017). Static.pdesas.org. Retrieved 6 November 2017, from http://static.pdesas.org/content/documents/danielson_rubric_53.pdf Preschool boys. (2017). Mouthsofmums.com.au. Retrieved 7 November 2017, from https://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Preschool-boys-and-teacher-news_625x430.jpg other images labeled for reuse