The Flexible Teacher

In "The Flexible Teacher" (pp. 46–50), Leila Christenbury tells how she changed her plans when her students did not meet her expectations. Have you ever found yourself in a situation like Christenbury's? Yes, every once and awhile I get a class like this one. I do adjust my expectations, but it can be hard to keep in fair when looking at the high flyers in your class. It can be a lot to balance between lower level kids and higher level kids to all succeed at high levels. I usually spend more time with those that need it. As long as they are growing in their learning then it proves to me that they are learning. Not everyone will have the exact same craftsmanship of work. How can educators adapt their plans to their students' needs and abilities without lowering standards? The standard in art is that the student has shown growth from the beginning work to the end product. I usually need to look at those expectations on an individual basis. In art I usually look at the student's retention of reading, writing, thought process, critiquing and final product (craftsmanship). I always say on the first day of the class that you maybe very talented, but that does not mean you don't need to try hard and learn to succeed. If you are someone is not as confident in art then you need to practice just like any other subject and you will get better at it. It is important that every level puts in full effort.