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Introduction to the touchstones

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Can something as simple as a checklist help us teach more actively and be more productive in the classroom? In the book The 12 Touchstones of Good Teaching (2013), Bryan Goodwin and Elizabeth Ross Hubbell break down what it takes to be a good teacher into three sections:

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  • Be demanding: Align teaching with high expectations for learning

  • Be supportive: Provide a nurturing learning environment.

  • Be intentional: Know why you’re doing what you’re doing.

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Each of these main themes is broken down into smaller points, which I look at closer throughout this website. I have included information from the text as well as my own personal interpretation of the touchstones, which I have incorporated into my own drama classroom. Please continue to the links below and enjoy your time on my site.

Be Demanding, Be Supportive, Be Intentional
Be Demanding

Articulate and Maintain High Expectations for Learning

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It is important to go into a classroom and demand that our students reach their highest potential. In steps 1-4 of the touchstone, we focus on how to make this a reality in our classrooms.

Be Supportive

Provide a Nurturing Learning Environment

 

When our students enter the classroom we must provide more than just education. We must provide a space that allows our students to feel free to learn and grow. In touchstones 5-8 we learn how to be effective and still be supportive.

Be Intentional

Know Why You're Doing What You're Doing

 

Before even stepping foot into a classroom, there are hours of preparation that are needed to prepare us for the journey of educating a student. Using steps 9-12 of the touchstones will help guide teachers while preparing students to master the skills needed for the course.

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