Mrs.

Laura Fras
University Facilitator/Faculty of Education
University of Alberta

May, 2014

To whom it may concern:

I am writing on behalf of Miss Andrea Cove. It has been my privilege to facilitate and guide Miss
Cove in her final 9 week AFX practicum with the University of Alberta. Miss Cove has been nominated
for the EE and GS Lord Memorial Prize.

During her Junior High/Language Arts placement, insightful reflections were evident from the
start as she answered questions with ease and made creative adjustments to her teaching practices.
She demonstrated exemplary skills for preparation, planning and organization. She developed very
effective, inspirational lessons with a balance between teacher directed and inquiry based learning. She
organized and stated daily objectives for her lessons following the Program of Studies. Several
resources were collected for hands-on experiences and all materials were readily available. She
engaged the whole student in learning, incorporating learning styles and cooperative elements into each
lesson.

Miss Cove displayed knowledge of how students learn by applying various teaching strategies.
Her lessons demonstrated flexibility and adaptability. The students became active learners as she
presented interesting topics at different levels. She was a wizard in monitoring and adjusting for
difficult classroom needs! Her flexibility, resourcefulness, and innovative thinking supported all
learners. She was able to vary her confident teaching style with whole groups, small groups, and
individual students. She applied routines and transitions and paced the teaching and learning activities.
As she modelled and guided learning techniques, the students then produced and presented quality L.A.
projects. Her comfort with technology and the smart board enhanced the learning experience for all.

Many proactive management techniques were implemented as Miss Cove created the climate
for learning. She had an intuitive sense of classroom management and used her prior experience to
ensure control. The students responded with interest and respect. Expectations were set for behaviour
as she dealt with some difficult cases. Low key control was practiced with role-playing, signals,
proximity, expression and private dialogue. Positive comments were used successfully as the class
worked independently and accepted responsibility. She created and maintained a quiet work
environment when needed and yet allowed for movement and discussion in more collaborative lessons.
All students were engaged and inspired with the joy of learning!

Miss Cove is a natural teacher and reflective practices have allowed her to become an artist in
the classroom. She is highly professional in all areas. Her willingness to analyze and question motivated
her to internalize many skills and strategies which she incorporated promptly. Miss Cove will be a very
successful educator and leader in the field.

Sincerely,

Mrs. L. Fras