Directions:
Respond to each item.
Each response should be concise and between two and three paragraphs in length.
Write between two and three paragraphs For each question.
1. During the first week of this course, you considered the importance of building literacy in infancy and toddlerhood. As you studied preschool education, you added to your understanding of literacy and language in the lives of 3-, 4-, and 5-year-olds. Now, in the context of kindergarten and primary education, summarize Maya's philosophy regarding the role of books and teaching reading.
2. In the Required Resource, "Developmentally Appropriate Practice in the Primary Grades—Ages 6–8 : Overview," the point is made that primary-grade curriculum should be integrated. In what ways does Maya's study of penguins represent quality integrated education? Why does an integrated curriculum work well for children birth through third grade?
3. Throughout this course, you have been studying key components of quality education including discovery, child-centered learning, characteristics of quality teachers, and the importance of respectful and responsive child-adult relationships. In this week's readings, another component is underscored: structure and routines. In your own words, explain why structure and routines are integral to quality education and working with children of all ages.

1. Mr. Mason used chess as a means of reaching/teaching/educating the children in his class. Identify and explain two reasons why chess worked, and using examples from the film, summarize a few of the "lessons" that the children learned.
2. Knights of the South Bronx takes place in a very tough area of New York City; however, the lessons for educators do not solely relate to working with children from low-income, high-violence environments. What did you learn from this film and the article "Critical Issue: Rethinking Learning for Students at Risk" about teaching and education that can be applied to elementary-age children from any neighborhood or socioeconomic class?
3. Consider the following statement, which the principal of the school in the film makes to Mr. Mason: "Our kids need the basics—reading, writing, arithmetic—anything extra's just that—extra. Just stick with the lesson plan." Explain why the principal, as an educator committed to student achievement and success, believes this to be true. Then explain why "sticking to the lesson plan" might have kept Mr. Mason and his students from achieving and learning what they did.

1. Why teach? Many choose teaching and related professions in order to make a difference. Is it possible to really make a difference in the lives of children? Respond to these questions based on what you learned from the reading "Fostering Resilience in Children." How did this reading impact your thinking about your future work?
2. Consider the age/grade level of children with whom you hope to work, or the work you hope to do with parents and/or families. After all you have read throughout this course, including this week's article "12 Characteristics of Effective Early Childhood Teachers," identify five characteristics that you hope to cultivate in order to be effective in your future work, and explain why these characteristics are important to you.
3. There are many ongoing debates and discussions about the impact of standards and regulations on the field of education, teaching, and children's learning. Review at least three of the standards and regulations documents listed in this week's Learning Resources. Articulate your thoughts about their impact on the field of education, teaching, or children's learning. Use specific examples drawn from the documents that you read to support your thinking.

Directions: Respond to each item. Each response should be concis...