Chapter 11: Build on Best Practice Research

It is hard as a teacher when the curriculum is set and we are told not to deviate from it. This stifles the creativity and flexibility on the teacher’s part. I think it is very important that the teacher is able to deviate somewhat from the set lessons. Some lessons just need some extra help and creativity thrown into the mix. Our Reading curriculum does include writing in it which I think is great. As it mentions, these are two subjects that are intertwined. It is important to be up on the current research. However, there should be some research done on your own in the classroom. Teachers know what works and what doesn’t by trying it out and seeing it for themselves. I find myself trying out different ideas and talking to my colleagues about things they have done and tried. It helps to work together to gain as much information as possible. There are so many resources and programs available that districts do need to be careful when adopting them. It is a huge waste of money if they adopt one that does not work or changes within the year. When reading this chapter it mentioned that students need to be kept in the classroom during these language learning activities. I completely agree. However, I become frustrated because during these times, I have so many students pulled from my classroom for different reasons. It’s hard to find the right balance.