Describe the skills or attributes you believe are necessary to be an outstanding teacher The first skill or attribute that

I believe necessary to be an outstanding teacher is the ability to encourage and model critical thinking. Possessing the skill to think critically will allow a student to build upon previous knowledge and to use logic in problem solving. Critical thinking skills facilitate clear and rational thinking. Secondly, an effective teacher is able to successfully adapt to a wide variety of situations and circumstances that may arise in the course of a lesson and/or school day. In an imperfect world, supplies may run out, computers can crash, and copiers can jam. More importantly, the best laid lesson plans may not be as effective in the application as they appeared in theory. An effective teacher will have the ability to evaluate their lessons and recognize the effectiveness, or lack of effectiveness, in a particular approach to instruction. They must also reflect critically on their lessons and seek to improve their pedagogy. Finally, an effective teacher truly enjoys working with young people and comprehends the enormous impact that a committed educator can have on a classroom. They should also have a good sense of humor and be an effective communicator. How would you address a wide range of skills and abilities in your classroom? I believe that cooperative learning is a great method to use when faced with a range of skills and abilities in the classroom. Peer learning is such a powerful and effective tool. I would also circulate around the room as a necessary function of each lesson to insure that students are meeting the lesson objectives and are receiving the greatest benefit. In addition, I would need to be familiar with each students strengths and weaknesses, and work to create lessons that meet their needs.

Describe the skills or attributes you believe are necessary to be outstanding when working in student support services.

How would you address a wide range of issues in your groups?