1. I. Teachers have knowledge of:
   Students
   1. Teachers understand how students learn and develop.
   2. Teachers understand how students differ in their approaches to learning.
   
   Content
   3. Teachers are proficient in reading, writing and mathematics.
   4. Teachers understand the central concepts and skills, tools of inquiry and structures of the discipline(s) they teach.
   
   Pedagogy
   5. Teachers know how to design and deliver instruction.
   6. Teachers recognize the need to vary their instructional methods.
2. II. Teachers apply this knowledge by:
   Planning
   1. Teachers plan instruction based upon knowledge of subject matter, students, the curriculum and the community.
   2. Teachers select and/or create learning tasks that make subject matter meaningful to students.
   
   Instructing
   3. Teachers establish and maintain appropriate standards of behavior and create a positive learning environment that shows a commitment to students and their successes.
   4. Teachers create instructional opportunities that support students’ academic, social and personal development.
   5. Teachers use effective verbal, nonverbal and media communications techniques which foster individual and collaborative inquiry.
   6. Teachers employ a variety of instructional strategies that enable students to think critically, solve problems and demonstrate skills.
   
   Assessing and Adjusting
   7. Teachers use various assessment techniques to evaluate student learning and modify instruction as appropriate.
3. III. Teachers demonstrate professional responsibility through:
   Professional and Ethical Practice
   1. Teachers conduct themselves as professionals in accordance with the Code of Professional Responsibility for Teachers (Section 10-145D-400a of the Connecticut Certification Regulations).
   2. Teachers share responsibility for student achievement and well-being.
   
   Reflection and Continuous Learning
   3. Teachers continually engage in self-evaluation of the effects of their choices and actions on students and the school community.
   4. Teachers seek out opportunities to grow professionally.
   
   Leadership and Collaboration
   5. Teachers serve as leaders in the school community.
   6. Teachers demonstrate a commitment to their students and a passion for improving their profession.

Advisement Sheet for History/Social Studies Teacher Certification (Aligned with the National Council for the Social Studies Standards)

¹:applies to anyone matriculated prior to Fall 2007
²:applies to anyone admitted in Fall 2007 or after
³:aligned with NCSS Standard Number ( )

Revised April 23, 2007 in consultation with the History, Political Science, Philosophy, & Geography Dept.