Teaching as Decision Making: Successful Practices for the Elementary Teacher / Edition 1

by Alane J. Starko, Georgea M. Sparks-Langer, Marvin Pasch, Lisa Frankes, Trevor G. Gardner

Overview

This new general elementary methods book offers a balanced presentation of skills, inquiry, and social approaches to teaching, structured around the concept of instructing for understanding. The authors stress that the truly effective teacher not only has knowledge of teaching strategies but also understands the importance of asking and answering such questions as: What learner characteristics affect the success of this strategy? What contextual factors will influence its outcome? What philosophical/ethical stance does it represent? This book includes coverage that reflects a “backward design” structure and consideration of student characteristics first; then, identification of complex tasks and assessment; and finally, daily instructional planning. It emphasizes authentic assessment and the importance of considering assessment when planning instruction. For professionals in the field of teaching grades K-12.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780130286833
Publisher:	Pearson
Publication date:	04/12/2002
Edition description:	3RD
Pages:	446
Product dimensions:	7.48(w) x 8.97(h) x 1.18(d)

Table of Contents

1. Teaching as Decision Making.

Topic 1: Planning for Instruction: Setting the Stage.

2. Understanding Students and Learning.

3. Choosing and Analyzing Classroom Goals.

4. Planning Educational Outcomes.

5. Assessing Learning Performances.

Topic 2: Implementation: Getting Out There and Teaching.

6. Reflective Lesson Design.

7. Models for Teaching: Direct.

8. Models for Teaching: Inductive Approaches.

9. Facilitating Structures and Strategies.

10. Differentiation and Diversity.

Topic 3: Creating a Positive Learning Environment.

11. Classroom Management: Traditions, Programs, and Goals.

12. A Rational Approach to Classroom Management.

13. Looking Back and Looking Ahead.

Appendix: Example Unit.

Glossary.

Editorial Reviews

This textbook explores lesson planning, classroom management, and models for teaching in the elementary school environment. The approach emphasizes reflective lesson design and constructivist practices. A sample intermediate-level unit on the Revolutionary War is provided. The third edition is rearranged and adds more material on individual student differences and cultural differences. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

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