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Identifying and collecting best practices for improving the learning environment in the social science and fine arts classroom.

Effective motivational techniques- Classrooms with effective motivational techniques include students who can involvement, master, enjoyment, and be challenged (Ellis, 2010). Create a classroom where students are encouraged to speak and listen. When the lesson topic is introduced ask the students to share what their previous knowledge is on the subject. If a teacher includes a topic that interests students they will be motivated to share their previous experiences with the class. This is why it is important for the teacher to carefully plan the lesson topics Capture student’s imagination through creativity. For example: During a social science lesson the teacher should dress the part. If the topic is Pilgrims then the teacher can dress as a pilgrim and encourage role play from the students. When this type of instruction is used, students become motivated and engaged in the subject which leads to higher rates of retention.

Strategies for use in a social science classroom. Choose a topic, research the topic, encourage students to use freedom in how they approach the topic, allow students to reflect, display their work in the classroom, and celebrate the lesson with a themed party or performance as a sign of completion. Designing web maps on topics. For example: if the topic is archeology allow the students to design and create a web map that includes 8-10 branches that represent archeology. The resources can be found using the internet and have technology as one source. Once the web map has been completed have the students create a poster to share with the class. Then assign a day when the students can go on an artifact find on campus. This will engage their interest in the topic. Hands on experiences with lessons allow students to be more motivated and engaged.

Strategies for use in a fine arts classroom. Begin teaching art through vocabulary. There are many words associated with art that can help students understand the different roles each art role takes. When a student understands the language of art they are able to relate different subjects to different forms of art. For example, art introduces vocabulary such as line, element, texture, color, shape, etc. When a student knows these terms and is given a painting by Picasso to study, the student can pick these terms out in the painting giving them more depth and understanding. Fine arts should be implemented according to the lesson. If a lesson is on a specific artist, have the students create a visual piece of art using the artist’s techniques, then allow them to create a piece of art using their own techniques. The students should be asked to compare and contrast their art work with the art work from the original artists. When asking these types of questions the students are thinking creatively and using critical thinking analysis for their answers.

Strategies for integration of social studies and fine arts Art can be introduced into a lesson for social science in a simple form, allowing students to be creative in a lesson. After a lesson has been given the students are allowed time to create an art project with very little guidance or instruction. An example of this type of AI could include a lesson on when the early settlers came to California. Once the text book lesson has been read, the students will be given art materials to create a wagon that “they” might have traveled in. When a student is asked to create a project where they put themselves in the scenario, the students evoke more imagination and creativity to the project. Role playing, dramas, and plays for social science are another way AI can be introduced into a lesson. When students study a topic from the past, they become immersed in another time and culture. Creating a drama or play that allows the students to dress and act those parts engage the students to think longer and harder about a subject. Students enjoy role playing and any chance during a subject they can role play, the better learning outcome they will achieve.

Effective classroom management strategies Create a classroom that is fun and engaging with set rules and boundaries. When students know the rules, expectations, and consequences they are more willing to listen and follow the rules. This is the same for students who are in classrooms with poor management. The students talk during, instruction, become disruptive, disrespectful, and lack engagement in the lesson. Display rules and expectations where all students can see them. When the rules and expectations are displayed it is easier for a teacher to address a student who is off track, by pointing to the board and allowing the student to visually see what they should be doing. This gives an opportunity prior to disciplinary actions. Always allowing students one final chance to correct behavior helps them to be successful young adults.

Examples of tools, materials, and classroom safety materials. Technology- Having one or more computers available with internet for researching subjects. Technology allows students to access more resources, more resources gives students the opportunity to gain more knowledge in a subject. Computers should be placed in an appropriate place in the classroom where teachers can observe the students who are accessing the internet. This will ensure that students are using materials appropriately. Materials for lesson plans should always be readily available to students. Teachers need to create lesson plans and be prepared well in advance, this will make lesson plans run smoothly. If students are required to bring in materials for lessons, notes for requests need to be done at least a week in advance to give parents time to gather the materials. Safety and materials- Students need to have age appropriate materials available for lessons. Materials should be kept in cabinets located in cabinets that are not in high traffic areas. Teachers need to distribute materials at the appropriate time. Most students should be engaged in the lesson before art supplies are given, otherwise they will lose interest in the instruction.

References Cornett, C. E. (2011). Creating Meaning Through Literature and the Arts (4th ed.). Retrieved from The University of Phoenix eBook Collection database. Ellis, A. K. (2010). Teaching and Learning Elementary Social Studies (9th ed.). Retrieved from The University of Phoenix eBook Collection database.