Reflective Statement

My Digital Professional Portfolio (DPP) has progressed with numerous pieces of evidence that are linked to the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers (AITSL), Graduate Teacher Level, Professional Standards for Teachers, 1,2,3 and 4 (Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership Limited, 2018). A diverse range of artefacts are included on my DPP covering focus area’s 1.1, 2.2, 3.5 and 4.3. Standard 1.1 covers differentiation on lesson plans and how important differentiation can be when planning for meaningful lessons. I believe that the differentiation on the lesson plans used at my placement school lacks a lot of vital information about the students that require additional assistance. When referring to focus area 2.2 organisation was the key, I found that I was very organised whilst on placement and was commended on numerous occasions by numerous staff about how I organised the lessons, the fulfilment of the lesson and the reflection at the end of the lessons. The term plans used at my placement would be a vital tool when planning for longer placement as it can be adapted to include a series of lessons. The only criticism I have on the term planner is that there is no room for extension or lower levelled academic children. The plan is created that all students are equal, and this is never the case. For focus area 3.5 communication was paramount. Being able to connect with the students, coming into the classroom with a positive attitude allowed the students to feel safe, comfortable and ready to learn. I have learnt a number of strategies that I will use when teaching students. Finally, focus area 4.3 managing challenging behaviour is one of the most important focus areas within a classroom. I do believe having a background in Education Support will enable myself to be patient with the students that have challenging behaviours as I have been working with children that have these traits for many years. I will always go into a classroom with an open mind and acknowledge that some students are unable to control their behaviours. Overall, working on my DPP has broadened my understanding of the importance of the teaching standards for graduate teachers. I have a lot of work to complete to understand all of the standards and this will be my next goal on improving my DPP.