According to Rory Donaldson, when taught by a Master Teacher, even a course in “How to Fix a Bicycle” accelerates a students’ ability to read, write, listen and speak. Organize information (think) and do Math – as well as the three behaviors associated with success: How to start on time, stay on task and complete assignments.
He also added additional qualities of the Master Teacher. These are common elements. With these elements can be turned into an effective lesson.
1. Teacher behavior is recognized and accepted as the critical variable to student success.
2. Master Teachers have stopped confusing teaching with learning.
3. Behavior is established before academic instruction.
4. The teacher accepts responsibility for student learning.
5. Reading mastery is recognized as the core academic competency.
6. Errors are corrected immediately.
7. Good behaviors is regularly rewarded (rarely with candy)
8. Low performing students are never ignored, and are never tricked by questions to
which they haven’t first been taught the answers.
9. Computation is the foundation of mathematics.
10. All students are regularly tested to insure mastery of the material.
11. Mastery is evaluated by specific, regular testing.
12. Classes are not allowed to be disrupted by students who choose to sharpen pencils or
engage in other “off task” behavior.
For Donaldson, the two great maxims of Master Teacher never forget are “Cooperation before instruction” and “motivations begins with success”.
On top of everything else he said that Master Teacher never, ever, give up and above all Love.
By: Anabeth L. Vitanzos | Teacher II | Sta. Rosa Elementary School | Pilar, Bataan
