The candidate understands and uses a variety of instructional strategies to encourage

learners to develop deep understanding of content areas and their connections, and to build
skills to apply knowledge in relevant ways.

The candidate should complete a reflective essay demonstrating how the strategies utilized in
instruction are appropriate for meeting the needs of all students in the unit.

Assessments are not the only part of a classroom that should be varied. Instructional strategies
must also be varied. This helps reach each type of learner within the classroom. As a teacher we must
continue to learn and create more ways to deliver instruction to connect with every student. I try very
hard to use many different types of instruction in each lesson.
One main instructional technique I use is modeling. This strategy works for students of all ages.
When showing a student exactly what they need to do many latch on and are able to gain mastery of
the concept very quickly. Modeling provides students with an appropriate example of what the concept
looks and/or sounds like. In an elementary classroom, the teacher can model proper classroom
procedures, playing technique of Orff instruments, and musical concepts. If teaching songs by rote,
modeling is vital so students learn the skills in question. In a secondary classroom, developmentally
students can use more higher order thinking skills so I like to call upon their critical thinking skills with
questioning and group discussion. This is not exclusive to secondary. Elementary students must also
work on their critical thinking skills as well with questioning and discussion.
These questions can include things like asking the students to problem solve ways to improve
technique in rehearsal. As the conductor I stop the song being played and ask the students why they
think I stopped them. Then I ask how they can fix it. Let the student play again, stop them and ask if they
think they implemented the solution. If they still are unable to get the concept being discussed, I can
model it for them. If there is a student in the ensemble that has really mastered the concept they can
model for the group too. This helps reinforce student participation. As a student teacher I would
incorporate think pair share when asking certain questions so students could process the information
with their peers. I also taught a lesson where I participated in the activities and gave students a chance
to lead instead of me telling them what to do. That was the most successful lesson I taught and had the
highest engagement and participation then as well.
Teachers must continue to develop skills to deliver instruction. This professional development is
vital in an ever-changing educational world. This helps ensure student learning and success.