STANDARDS PORTFOLIO

My current placement within my EDUC450 has been at Thompson Valley High School 

with Mr. Crawford and Ms. Robinson, who are both current art teachers with different subject 

focuses. I find the differences between the two teachers to be a very informative experience on 

how different pedagogies and teaching styles can impact an environment as well as a student’s 

learning. Within Crawford’s drawing class, he heavily emphasizes creating an equal playing field 

for all the students learning to draw by breaking down the numerous aspects of drawing. An 

example of this is creating practice worksheets and live demonstrations on how to draw a nose, 

breaking it down into simple shapes so it is easier to create more complex drawings with basic 

information. Robinson’s sculpture focuses on the importance of self-assessment and creative 

thinking when it comes to project ideation and planning. She gives students suggestions and 

feedback, but makes sure that the resources in the classroom are made known for student usage. 

Standard 1

Within the first standard of the CEP Teacher Candidate Quality Standards, I have shown 

to be proficient in understanding of the content I teach. I have developed a lot of  knowledge 

throughout my time at Colorado State University, including the different elements and principles 

of art and how to apply them effectively in both 2D and 3D mediums. I have utilized this 

knowledge through my short demonstration of drawing teeth for my high school practicum class 

with Mr. Crawford.

Standard 2

 By the end of this class and practicum experience, I have been developing 

the skills to establish a safe, inclusive and respectful learning environment for a diverse 

population of students. Within the confines of two teachers and two different classrooms, I have 

found that creating a welcoming and inviting presence can vary from student to student. It can be 

noted that some require different methods and approaches to meeting students where they are at 

and acknowledging the difference in needs. 

Standard 3

Within my short instructions, I found proficiency in creating plans that deliver effective instruction and create an environment that facilitates learning from their students. Asking questions and gaining insight from students provides a lot of insight in a student’s work ethic, as well as their process method when approached with a task.

Standard 4

 I have been developing demonstrating professionalism through ethical conduct, reflection, and 

leadership. It is a strange experience for new teachers to become the responsible adult in the 

room, but it remains an important duty as you are there to guide students to becoming successful 

academics, as well as adults. I find it difficult to be sure to know the answers or the correct way to approach a situation at all times, but I will continue to look to my peers and mentors for 

Advice.

I find myself very comfortable within standard 1 and 2, as they have been ingrained into 

me during my time in high school, as well as university. I wish for all students to be equipped 

with the most knowledge and proficiency to achieve whatever they set their mind to. I believe it 

is within our responsibility to provide our students with a nurturing and safe environment that 

encourages personal expression. Growing individuals need the space to comfortably try their best 

and fail, as they will begin to develop resilience.