So what does it matter?

Ever ask yourself why things matter so much to some students and not to others? What is it that causes one student take an interest in a lesson, while another tunes it out?

It’s all about interest. If a student feels the lesson subject matter is useful to them, they are more likely to take interest in a particular idea and pay attention, practice the skill, and utilize the teaching done under the subject.

What can be done to spark the interest of students who do not hold an interest in subject matter that is deemed valuable for curriculum?

Provide a variety of subject matter that can be connected to the lesson objective. Giving students choices in their own learning, ensures focus and increased interests. By providing students with choice during lessons, a teacher not only increases participation, but also opens the doors to engaged learning. The motivation of an interested student can be witnessed through the completion of projects and assignments that otherwise might require excessive coaching and encouragement.

Looking for fresh ways to present and explore ideas is the ultimate goal for making learning relatable and inviting. By providing a variety of ways to encourage student participation, such as role playing, pantomime, or monologues, students are able to crack the shells they hide under without even realizing they have become active participants.

            

Using music, art, or photographs also encourages student participation and engagement by waking the senses in a way that students approach learning as a game or activity to be enjoyed. Technology can awaken and enliven students who would otherwise drift off into dream land during important instruction time.

                                   

When teachers show their human side and share experiences that have made them who they are, they offer students a way to feel comfortable with their selves as well. They learn that all of us make mistakes, and can rise from our past experiences.  Their eyes are opened to the potential that their past does not have to become their future. We all have the ability to change, no matter what our life circumstances are.

I want to share with my students, in a way that allows them to relax around me, and accept themselves for who they are. I want to implement different learning strategies that will open the minds of my students through the senses. I enjoy being in a classroom that is full of engaged learning, as well as relaxed fun! I intend to become the type of teacher who is willing to let my hair down once in a while and not hide my imperfections. I feel that through the inclusion of connected interest activities, such as music during writing or testing, brain boosters in between instructions, and plenty of exercise, students will naturally become more engaged learners who will make the most of their time in the classroom.