Ancient Egyptian Achievements
What makes the ancient Egyptian achievements so important? Can one achievement be more impressive than another?
Meet the Author

Steve Vander Ploeg
Haven Middle School

District 65


Title:
Teacher
Subjects:
History/Social Science
Science
Grades:
6
My Marketing Text
I am a middle school teacher in Evanston IL.  I went to Kalamazoo Christian High School and then got my elementary education major at Trinity Christian College.  I love being able to use technology in the classroom to help engage my students.  I am planning on learning and developing new tools during the next year, which I can use to differentiate the curriculum in my classroom.  Currently where I teach we have great technology. We are pushing the use of Promethean boards, but we also have two Mac computers in each room, DVD players, electronic versions of the student books, and two computer labs. This past summer I was able to take a train the trainer program so that I can now train the teachers in my building on a program called active inspire. Active inspire is the new Promethean technology. My three goals for integrating technology in the classroom would be; One create differentiate assignments for students, two to be able to train other teachers on different software, and three to be able to create a technology based unit.

My Philosophy

My Philosophy of Education

            A college education is almost necessary to be successful in America today.  To get that education the children must have a good foundation to build on.  This foundation is built from pre-school on.  It is critical that each student is taught by a qualified teacher at each grade so that their foundation will be strong.

            The learning environment has a lot to do with how much the student will learn.  If the teacher can create a positive learning atmosphere where everyone can feel comfortable it will be easier to learn. The positive learning atmosphere will make it easier for students to ask questions when they do not understand a concept.

            As a teacher I want the kids to like me, but more importantly I want them to respect me.  There will be rules and procedures in place to make sure the class runs smoothly. Kids need to know they can ask me anything and feel comfortable around me.  Being approachable is an important characteristic to have when you are in a leadership position.

            My ethics in teaching will be to make sure my students are honest.  Cheating can not be tolerated or students who do cheat will fall behind. I will also do my best to be a good role model to the students with how I act in and out of school. If am I going to ask students to give their best everyday, I need to be prepared to give my best everyday.

            When it comes to discipline I will make sure that kids know the rules of the class.  A lot of rules are broken because kids do not fully understand the rules, or they are testing the teacher. If rules are clearly stated at the beginning of the school year this will not be a problem. A solid behavior management plan is crucial to making sure rules and procedures are followed. 

            A good curriculum is one that is based on differentiated instruction.  If the children can stay engaged in class by participating, that will keep them from messing around and being distracted from the lesson being taught. Having the students participate in class keeps them using their energy in a positive way. A quality curriculum must be diverse. Students are going to all learn differently, and as a teacher I need to reach out to each of their individual learning styles.

            When it comes to relationships with students and families I want to be approachable.  I love working with people, and I hope that if the parents have a question that they are not afraid to come ask me about it.  I do not want my first interaction with parents to be negative.  I will try to call home or send notes home with something positive their child has done. That way a positive relationship will be in place for parent teacher conferences. 

            In conclusion teaching is an extremely diverse field and many different styles can and will be successful.  My philosophy on education will help to make my teaching style successful by reaching out to many students in a positive learning environment.  Being a life longer learner will improve my teaching with all the experience I gain each year.