Curriculum is seen as a “social bet”. That is, knowledge, skills, and attitudes that the older generation deems important for the youth to prosper, both personally and economically are chosen by the older generation. As a future educator, I believe English, mathematics, science, social studies, foreign language, arts, and physical education should be incorporated into curriculum. I also believe that it’s important to have electives for students to choose from so that each child can build and explore their own interests. By having a broad curriculum, I believe it will shape a well-rounded individual after mandatory education is finished. I think it’s important for children to learn a variety of skills so that they can be prepared for whatever life throws their way. Each student will have a different life than another but I believe it’s important for all students to have the same skill sets so that they can be equally prepared for life after school.
Across the curriculum, problem solving skills, active listening, how to follow directions, asking for help, how disagree appropriately, and how to apologize should be taught to children. While these skills don’t exactly pertain just to school, they will be able to teach children values that will help them succeed in their everyday lives. These skills also will help students achieve well in school, as they make the classroom a better environment. For example, if all teachers emphasized and encouraged active listening, students would be able to pay attention in class and ask for clarification where needed. If students are struggling, it is important that they know when and how to ask for help, making clarification easier and better for them, allowing them to take away more from each lesson. Another example is that if students know how to apologize for their wrongs, they will be able to better interact with their peers, teachers, and within society.
When it comes to diverse students, educators need to be able to accommodate appropriately. For example, if a child has ADHD, they will often be labeled as a “problem child”. Instead of disregarding their outbursts and distractions, as a teacher it is your responsibility to be able to accommodate to their learning disabilities. Just a few suggestions on how to better manage these students include finding a quiet place for them to complete their work so that they won’t get as distracted. Another way to help them stay on task is to establish “work cues” so that they know when they are off task and need to refocus their energy. Another example of diverse student accommodations include those who fall below the poverty line. These students generally don’t have a stable home life, which can affect their success in school. While it’s not exactly easy to “fix” these students being in poverty, teachers can provide a stable school environment to offset an unstable home life. Just one suggestion to be able to aid those in poverty is having extra school supplies available to those who can’t afford to have the basic necessities to succeed in class. Also, providing after school clubs where these students can go and complete homework in a positive environment could help greatly.
