Emma Veteto

Gjoni
SCED 499
September 24, 2018
InTASC 4 Reflection
An instructor who effectively implements standard 4 “understands the central concepts,

tools of inquiry, and structures of the discipline(s) he or she teaches and creates learning

experiences that make these aspects of the discipline accessible and meaningful for learners to

assure mastery of the content.” Essentially, to properly execute standard 4, an instructor must

have a certain level of mastery within the subject they are teaching; however, it is equally as vital

that the instructor is well-versed in various modes of instruction. This balance between pedagogy

and content is essential in leading a well-rounded class. Students should have a clear

understanding of the objective and should be led to meet this objective in a manner that is

pedagogically sound and engaging. An instructor who meets this standard will employ a variety

of instructional methods. For instance, this instructor will not focus primarily on direct teaching

through lecture, an effective instructor will provide students with a variety of learning methods

in order to best meet the needs of every student in the class and provide a diverse learning

experience.

InTASC 4 is essential in every content area; however, in English, it can be particularly

important to integrate diverse styles of teaching. Because many students do not feel engaged in

English classes, whether it be due to boredom or a general disinterest in reading, it is crucial that

the instructor designs their lessons with the intention of creating an environment that is not only

engaging, but exciting. In my future English classes, I will diversify my teaching by providing

students with direct lecture only when students require level 1 clarifications. Aside from these
classes, I will be sure to incorporate differentiated lessons. For example, in teaching a lesson on

Shakespeare, I may ask students to get into small groups to act out a scene during one class,

while asking them to engage in a Socratic seminar during the next.

This standard is important for every teacher, as it enforces the importance of diversified

education methods, this is crucial, as it considers the needs and desires of the learners. Students

do not retain information in all of the same ways; therefore, instructors should make a conscious

effort to provide learners with fun, engaging activities. Additionally, many students focus on and

stress over the deliverables in a classroom, but when an instructor makes an effort to provide

students with a variety of graded material (spoken, written, etc.,), this relieves from student

stress.