1. Name 10 things you should learn during your new school orientation (p. 4-6).
2. What are two advantages of block scheduling (p. 8-9)?
3. Explain in a paragraph the differences between middle schools and jr. highs (p. 11-12)
4. Choose 8 key trends and practices that you find interesting. Summarize them into a paragraph (p. 19-20).
5. Choose 8 major problems and issues in our nation's schools. Summarize them into a paragraph (p. 20).
6. On page 27, choose one of the eight discussion questions. Write a one page reflection answering the question.
#6. -1. Describe how you would know if you were at an exemplary school.
ReplyDeleteThe first way that you would know that you are in an exemplary school would first be by the positive school climate the second you walk in the door. Students in exemplary schools feel wanted, and are motivated because of how much their teachers and other staff members are committed to the student’s success.
A second way to if you are in an exemplary school is by noticing the number of teachers and/or aides per classroom. Many classes will have more than one teacher or one teacher with an aid in the classroom. Many times this is called teaming where 5 2-5 team members (faculty) are in two, three, or four subject areas. Teaming provides a structure to support planning and curriculum and also allows for flexibility and a variety do to multiple teachers or team members. Since the same teachers are with the students and have a similar planning period then safety and familiarity with the teachers gets much easier for she students.
Anther thing you might see that makes up exemplar schools is the consistent use of smaller groups of students being assigned to a teacher, or staff member. Usually there are 20 or fewer students per advisory program. This groups help discuss topics of concern to and with students. Relationships between the teachers and the students become close, and students are able to increase interest in activities and others due to an increase in self-esteem and belonging. These advisory programs help create more positive school climates, hopefully preventing dropouts.
A fourth thing you might see in an exemplary school is that instruction is varied. Using different learning experiences, engaging students in problem-solving, emphasizing cooperation, and community, and seeking to develop good people who care for others with good morals are only a couple things that are varied in the instruction.
You might also notice that many of the students are involved in other programs or classes that help them explore curiosity. These might be things like intramural sports, clubs, technology arts, career option classes, and education on community service and vocational academics.
One last thing that might be noticeable in an exemplary school is how grade schools help and go out of the way to set up programs and events to help students jump to different schools (middle and high schools). Helping younger students transition from one level to the next will only help their chances of succeeding at the next level. Administration and teachers may set up visits to middle or high schools for elementary students so that they can build on their comfort level before they are actually there. Almost all exemplary schools use transition programs for their students (Middle School Association).