My philosophy for teaching English is that a classroom should be an interactive community in which knowledge is collaboratively constructed. I encourage student-centered learning by facilitating explorations and discoveries. My work and assessments promote critical as well as metacognitive thinking. Furthermore, my lessons require students to access prior knowledge which enables contextualized comprehension of thematic concepts and highlights the relevancy of content material.

My classroom dynamic includes the layering of activities, allowing students to interact in a variety of settings. Mutual respect and trust are integral elements of positive group interaction. Therefore, as a part of establishing our community, I will communicate with students regarding the classroom’s physical layout as well as the course’s academic proceedings. I will try to respect their wishes and respond with appropriate changes because that promotes a sense of student ownership for the course. However, in showing my students respect, I will demand respect from them. We are part of an interdependent community that can only be representative of all its members when everyone is given a voice and feels respected. The best classroom management is good instruction and therefore it is my sincere hope that we will focus on learning rather than disciplining. 

I assess and evaluate both the processes and products of my students to ensure legitimate growth. Informal and formal assessments are necessary components of a well-structured classroom. Informally, I will monitor student involvement in discussion and activities. Their in-class writing assignments will often be first drafts graded for completion. However, some writing assignments will be revised and edited for formal assessment along with tests and quizzes. I will present the class with clear objectives aligned with the content and assessments, but I will also remain open to classroom discussion to ensure that we are meeting our individualized needs. My syllabus will be flexible to accommodate the needs and abilities of my students. I will recognize their strengths, help them appreciate their own talents, and encourage an environment in which everyone can work towards achieving their potential.