Philosophy

of
Teaching

My personal philosophy of classroom management combines aspects of several different philosophies.

First, I believe that the school environment should be a welcoming and exciting place for all students. I
believe that learning core concepts is a fundamental principle of education; however, I also feel strongly that
in order to learn effectively, students must feel comfortable in their school environment. If students enjoy
learning, they are more likely to retain the information being taught in the classroom.

I believe that a variety of methods should be utilized when teaching curriculum. This is paramount
when teaching mathematics. Math problems and solutions should be demonstrated on the board and
example problems must be provided. I also believe that it is important that students learn to work together
and help each other with mathematics concepts. For example, I may demonstrate in step-by-step fashion
how specific problems are solved and then assign the students to groups to complete similar problems that
may require more critical thinking. Of course, as their teacher, I will always be available to scaffold the
students so they do not get too frustrated in solving the problems.

Another aspect of the curriculum that I feel is relative is that students learn the history of the subject
material they are learning. I plan to incorporate this into my classroom by introducing my students to trade
books about famous mathematicians and mathematical procedures. After reading a trade book of their
choosing, I will require each student to write a brief summary and reflection about the book. This promotes
self-discovery, which is invaluable in living in todays world. I believe that teaching problem-solving strategies
is as important as teaching computation. If students learn how to problem solve, they will be more prepared
to handle situations that may arise in other classes or in their lives outside of school.
 One last comment regarding curriculum is that I believe preparing the students for their life outside of
the classroom is as vital as preparing them cognitively with core concepts. I plan to incorporate aspects of
character education into my classroom. That is, I plan to teach the students that each person is unique and
deserves to be treated with respect. Teaching core concepts and relating the concepts to real-life application
is of the utmost importance in my classroom. I also strongly believe that students should be challenged, held
to high expectations, respected as unique, capable individuals, and encouraged to grow and develop
through peer interactions and self-reflection.

In my philosophy, teacher behavior and teacher/student interaction go hand-in-hand. For

example, I believe that I am a role model for my students. Therefore, if I am respectful to my students, I can
expect them to respect me and their classmates. I also plan to take a sincere interest in their lives. I think
that it is imperative that students know that I care and am genuinely concerned about them. If I take an
interest in their activities, they in turn will be more likely to take an interest in the topics and lessons that I
am teaching. In my classroom, students will be held accountable for doing homework every night, paying
attention during class, participating in group work, respecting one another, and for being courteous, caring,
and helpful.

Classroom activities will depend on the content I am teaching. I believe that practice and drill is
extremely effective for teaching and learning mathematics. To help the students develop a mental image of
a concept, I will incorporate individual activities such as homework, in-class group work so that students can
learn the importance of teamwork, and hands-on activities. In my classroom, there will also be discussion
and writing because I think that these two instructional techniques assist students in learning how to
communicate effectively, both in and outside the classroom environment.

One remaining vital aspect of classroom management lies within behavioral expectations. Students
will be held to a high behavioral expectation. They need to be taught proper ways to act and handle
numerous situations that may occur inside and outside the classroom. Rules and procedures will be enforced
as soon as I spend the day going over the rules and procedures with the students. As a teacher, I will strive to
foresee potential problems and eliminate problematic situations through regular classroom monitoring.

In conclusion, my philosophy of teaching and classroom management is one where students feel
valued, believed in, and encouraged to do their best. The school should be a place where students are
excited to learn every day. My classroom will be a source for students to learn important mathematical
concepts as well as techniques and skills needed to live a successful life beyond the classroom.