Chapter 4 - UbD

In chapter 4 I was surprised when I read that only a few teachers actually use variance of learning styles in their classroom, even though they intend to. Although it wasn’t always the case, I felt that most of my high school teachers did quite well and giving my class a variety of teaching strategies and lesson plans. Yet they did it within a regular pattern that could be expected. I also liked that this chapter addressed that fact that the clearer a subject, or context, is to a teacher, the easier it is for that teacher to teach it to the students. This seems like a no brainer, but it is so true. If we think we know enough, then we aren’t doing the next generation any good. We need to really understand what we are teaching in order to teach it efficiently and not be worrying about any mistakes or “fuzziness”. Then all our efforts won’t be on teaching. Another really great point that I think is good to remember as teachers is that we evolve as time and context changes. We should be able to adapt to any changes we see and find new ways to turn those changes into a positive thing. We, as teachers, will be teaching young adults, teens change fast. I think that these small points are a good reminder when I am trying to connect with students and help them. If some way of teaching that worked before isn’t working now… change! Try something new. I loved the saying that our goal is the pursuit of understanding of important things, not perfection. As long as I feel my students are progressing on a positive direction each day and month at school, I should be happy.