TEACHING STANDARDS

BROAD AND CURRENT KNOWLEDGE OF CONTENT

Effective mathematics and science teachers have a broad and current knowledge of the content appropriate to the level they are teaching.

The ability to steer a purposeful and effective learning course through the distractions of the school day and year presumes that teachers have a solid knowledge of the content of mathematics and science. It is the knowledge of these subjects that enables them to make mathematical and scientific ways of knowing available to students. Although it is not reasonable to expect teachers to have an in-depth knowledge of all of mathematics or science, it is important that they have a firm foundation that meets or exceeds the expectations for mathematical and scientific literacy as described in the Pacific Standards for Excellence Series.

Effective teachers also have the desire and capacity to continue building their understanding of mathematics and science throughout the course of their professional careers. A firm foundation includes, but is not limited to:

• an understanding of the fundamental concepts of mathematics and science,
• the ability to make conceptual connections between the ideas of mathematics, science and technology, and between these and other disciplines,
• the ability to use inquiry, reasoning, and problem-solving skills to pose and invite questions, design strategies, and carry out activities that improve instruction,
• an understanding of and appreciation for the role of mathematics and science in the development of societies and cultures and the ever increasing role that mathematics, science, and technology play in the everyday lives of people.

As professionals, mathematics and science teachers have a confident knowledge of the curriculum they teach. At the same time, they are co-learners with their students, who do not feel threatened when the limits of their own knowledge on a topic have been reached. The teachers are willing to respond to students' questions with, "I don't know, but here is how we can find out." These attributes are critical if mathematics and science teachers are to be lifelong learners, participate as leaders in their communities, and create environments where young people can develop into citizens able to reach personal goals and contribute to the general welfare of their societies.