What is "flexible teaching"?
"Every child is unique."
('Transparent Butterfly' via the fost on Flickr from Creative Commons)
We might say it and think it, but does your teaching style reflect this sentiment? I believe that my job as an educator is to translate curriculum standards into experiences that everyone can enjoy and learn from. This doesn’t mean that lessons aren’t structured and rigorous, but it does mean that if I need to adapt, I do. If I notice that my students need more exposure to non-fiction and differentiated shared reading practice, I do it. Lots of questions about the solar system? I’ll integrate a series of mini-lessons, invite an expert in the field to visit, and then we’ll create a three dimensional sculpture of our favorite planet. We’ll learn about something that my students are passionate about and I’ll sprinkle in those curriculum standards as we go!
I use the knowledge I have to teach my students but I also observe and listen to them too. Their needs are number one in my classroom and if I have to push my time tested routines to the side and cook up something new? I do it. Is this difficult at times? Sure! But it has also helped me discover new ways to keep my students engaged and invested in school. Academically, socially and emotionally- they get it all and I’ve found that if you ask your students they’re more than happy to share their goals and struggles with you. This self-reflection can be an amazing tool for me, their teacher, and it also gives children the power to be independent. To understand that they matter and they’re respected. To know that they are in charge of their destiny, and while this is a huge responsibility, that they are capable and valuable individuals.
And of course, if you call yourself the “Flexible Teacher” you know you’ve got to throw some stretching and moving in there too! I might not be a master yogi (yet…)but this may be one of those things that I learn from my students- persevere and you’ll get there!