Factors related to the school and surrounding community that may impact the teaching and learning
Many factors can affect teaching and learning; these could include the community, the school district, and/or individual school/classroom/student factors.
The information you gather about your teaching and learning context and about individual students will help provide perspective to the reader who will be scoring your submission.
This part of your submission will not be scored, but the information you include should have implications regarding your professional choices.
- Describe your classroom. Include the grade level, content area, subject matter, and number of students. Provide relevant information about any of your students with special needs.
- Describe any physical, social, behavioral, or developmental factors that may impact the instruction that occurs in your classroom. Mention any linguistic, cultural, or health considerations that may also impact teaching and learning in your classroom.
- Describe any factors related to the school and surrounding community that may impact the teaching and learning that occurs in your classroom.
Sample Answer
I teach 6th grade English Language Arts to a class of 25 students. My classroom is a diverse group of learners, with students from a variety of cultural backgrounds and socioeconomic levels. I have several students with special needs in my class, including two students with ADHD, one student with autism, and one student with dyslexia.
I have designed my classroom to be a welcoming and supportive environment for all learners. I have a variety of seating options available, so that students can choose the seating arrangement that works best for them. I also have a number of sensory aids available, such as fidget toys and noise-canceling headphones.