Voracious Reader, Lifelong learner Reading and learning are as fundamental to me as breathing.

I plan on learning for and from my students regularly. Enthusiastic, Creative, Fun Education can be fun and creative. Enthusiasm is contagious and helps students truly master the material. Reliable, Organized, Professional If I expect students to keep a neat notebook and have organized work, I will lead by example. I am also detail oriented and efficient at time management. Caring, Compassionate I care not only about the success of my students, but about their wellbeing as well. Whether it is an argument with a friend or a problem in class, I will listen to my students and offer advice and assistance. Flexible, Patient, Spontaneous The best laid plans can go astray. Nowhere is that more apt than in teaching. A fifty minute lesson can be finished in half the time, while a fifteen minute review can turn into a two-class lesson. Three words: Adapt, adapt, adapt.

Philosophy of Teaching - Summary

Students have a right to the best education possible. I have the responsibility to do my best to provide that for them. Students have a right to a safe and secure environment. It is my responsibility to do everything to provide that atmosphere. Students have a right to be acknowledged and heard. It is the teacher's job to ensure every child is acknowledged within the class. Students have a right to reach their full potential in the capacity best suited for them. My duty is to help students set and reach their goals. Students have a right to be able to apply their knowledge. I must help my children learn to think critically and apply their knowledge outside of the classroom walls.

Highly Qualified Teacher Candidate:

Middle School Math Middle School Social Studies High School Social Studies
Interactive, cooperative learning focused on real-world applications and critical thinking.

Barbara Durham
Enthusiastic, Compassionate, Professional

State of DelawareInitial License, Standard Middle Level Mathematics (6-8) Secondary Social Studies (6-12)

Bachelor of Arts Mathematics Education (5 9)

Barbara Durham
222 Messicks RD Harrington, DE 19952 Phone: 302-632-8584 / 302-398-4094 Fax: 302-398-4094

PRAXIS II (0069) Middle School Mathematics: 174 Secondary Social Studies: 178 PRAXIS I PPST Reading: 185 PRAXIS I PPST Writing: 183 PRAXIS I PPST Math: 188

barbaradurham.wordpress.com

My favorite classes in high school were Algebra I, U.S. History, and Chemistry. Each teacher's style was different, but one aspect was the same: They taught everyone. As a student, I did not see the reason behind doing the same problems several different ways. As a teacher, I realize these teachers were not merely repeating problems for busy work, they were demonstrating techniques to reach every child in their classrooms. I strive to reach this level in a classroom. Watching for signs of comprehension in my students, I ask myself, Who doesnt get it? Learning is not a race, it is a journey. I let students know it is okay if they do not get it the first or the second time. The problem is not them; it is how I am teaching. I will continue to try different ways, until they get it. And I will not give up on them.

Teaching skills vs. Teaching to the test

Using standardized tests to measure student performance may be necessary; but teaching to the test is not. Rather than having students memorize information to repeat back for a test; I want to teach students skills and techniques to use in life and on the test. Critical thinking, concrete applications, and concept analysis are ways to help children truly learn the information. My goal is for students to master the material for life, not just the year-end test.

Education and Skills

As a lifelong learner, my education did not stop after college. Since graduating, I have continued informal education in various teaching styles, classroom management practices, and effective teaching strategies. In the last few years, learned various technology skills such as web design, graphics programs, and PowerPoint. I plan on continuing my formal education with a Masters Degree in curriculum and instruction. Ultimately, I would like to help develop curricula and assist with standardized test development.

Experience
From training employees to private tutoring, I have experience teaching people of all ages and under a variety of circumstances. I have found that staying positive, focused, and calm is vital in creating a learning atmosphere. Some successful teaching methods I have used are simulation, interactive models, peer coaching, and student-led lessons. To help inspire my pupils to learn, I am knowledgeable in the subject, creative, and passionate about teaching. My teaching strategies include piquing interest, setting goals, using clear communication, anchor charts, mind mapping, and formative assessments.

Engaging Classroom Strategies

From a human number line to using a beach ball for a review session, students in my class are active in their learning. Snowball review Find me historical person review Flip Books and Foldables Badges to track unit progress Student-led and peer coaching lessons Brainstorming and mind mapping Menu board formative assessments Goal setting and tracking Picture, song, and physical projects

"If the child is not learning the way you are teaching, then you must teach in the way the child learns."~ Rita Dunn