What is component 1a?
Having knowledge of content and pedagogy is the first step of becoming an effective educator. This is the point where you learn the "what" and "how" of teaching. This includes understanding the specific content and internal relationships within your discipline, as well as the interdisciplinary relationships.
Why do you need it?
After learning the "what" and "how," you are ready for the next step of becoming an effective educator. Having a deep understanding of the content allows you to evolve the material. You can relate the material to culturally relevant issues and provide a global perspective. Having a deep understanding of content also allows you to anticipate and prevent common misconceptions with your students. Knowing what you are teaching thoroughly and how to teach it well will provide an enjoyable learning experience for your students.
What are the elements?
Knowledge of Content and Structure of the discipline
- Know the dominant structure of discipline and central concepts/skills
- Understanding that discipline material builds upon itself - recognize relationships between lower and higher level concepts
- Know what style of teaching is appropriate to use for your subject area
Artifacts of Domain 1a
Teachers can demonstrate knowledge of content and pedagogy through:
- well-designed lesson plans
- explaining internal content and interdisciplinary relationships (cross-curricular lessons)
- providing constructive feedback to students to further learning
- probing student understanding prior to teaching lesson
- making content relevant to students by relating it to current events
Danielson, C. (2011). The Danielson Group. The Framework for Teacher Evaluation Instrument. Retrieved from:
http://static.pdesas.org/content/documents/danielson_rubric_32.pdf
http://static.pdesas.org/content/documents/danielson_rubric_32.pdf