Standards

Most of my service learning has revolved around assisting students with Math and with Reading. While working individually and in groups with students to help them understand these subjects, I have noticed that Mrs. Saunders has taken the time to recognize the weaknesses and strengths of each student. I help the children gain a deeper understanding of concepts that they learn as a class, but each student is given a project that is appropriate for their own level of understanding of the subject. Some students are very fast readers and so are given more complex texts which demonstrate literary principles that are taught to less-fluent readers using more simplified texts. The same care for student understanding is displayed in assigning them Math work to go over with me.

I feel that this behavior on the part of Mrs. Saunders displays a solid grasp of the purpose of the standards listed on the UEN website. The standards typically begin with the phrase, "students will understand." Mrs. Saunders takes that seriously and makes a great effort to ensure that each student understands what is being taught, even when that requires extra work and attention to her students on her part. 

As I mentioned, I only really see Math and Reading addressed when volunteering. I am positive that Mrs. Saunders is addressing the other important subjects, I just don't see it because I don't come at the time of day that those things are covered. As I start my own career, I hope to perform my work as diligently as Mrs. Saunders.