Standard 6: Educators demonstrate a broad knowledge base and an understanding of areas they teach.

This standard is about teachers having knowledge to draw from in the classroom. This standard is important because it allows students and families to have confidence in the teacher and the information they are sharing with the student. When teachers follow this standard they are in continuous study of their subject area and are able to provide in depth information when students ask questions. This is important to developing trust and security in the classroom. This standard is similar to standard two where teachers are told to maintain credibility and professionalism. Teaching with standard six means not being afraid to let students ask questions because the teacher is competent in their understanding of the subject and has undergone research and lesson planning while considering where class discussion might go and what questions might be raised. Anticipating students shows not only an understanding of the students but also an understanding of the subject because the teacher is able to understand what concepts might be challenging. This standard is typically achieved with thoughtful lesson planning. When I was teaching a lesson on the Holocaust I used the American Holocaust Museum as a resource to find information and strategies on how to teach a lesson on tough topic in a way that was respectful and informative for my students. I also previously mentioned how my students observed me while I was teaching which is also an important part of this standard. Students are very perceptive and will often feel more comfortable exploring a subject and investing in a lesson when they believe that the teacher is well versed in the subject. I have seen this play out many times while working as a teacher on call I have often been tested by students to see if I am familiar with or know what I’m teaching to the class. I hope to continue to develop my skills so that students can feel comfortable exploring many lessons with me which will require me to keep my skills sharp and continuously stay up to date with new information about the books and authors I’m introducing to my classes.