I have a firm conviction in the importance of teaching up in the classroom, especially in the lower grades. This means creating reasonable yet high expectations as well as not putting a cap on what is possible for them to learn. It is very interesting, but more times than not I encounter individuals that are surprised by the knowledge and abilities that my Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 2nd graders display. I work very hard to create an environment and curriculum to support this, however I am not surprised at their successes.
Here's why. My students are very young and are absolute sponges, They crave knowledge and have an undying curiosity about the world around them. I don't tell them that they are doing work that is on a first or second grade level. They do not find it unusual to be working in a Hebrew book or doing worksheets, or even speaking in Hebrew in the classroom. THIS IS THE REALITY THEY KNOW. From the very beginning this was the foundation I set. Why shouldn't I teach them information they are ready for regardless of age.
I can already imagine quiet whispers from other educators who might argue I am pushing my students to hard to master higher level work or that I am neglecting to think about kids that may not absorb the content as quickly. To those whispers, I would respectfully disagree, I am not pushing them, I am creating a classroom and curriculum that inspires them to rise to the challenge. In addition, those students who may take a little longer to comprehend the information will eventually get it and will also be at a higher level than those who are taught down to. Meaning, one of my students that may be at 75 % - 80% comprehension or retention compared to his peers in my classroom, is at 100% or more compared to the child that is being taught at a lower level despite the ability of the students to absorb more.
The key in my opinion is to make the content fun and engaging.
Whew, I did it. I am now descending from my soapbox.
