Teach to Serve

In the course, we looked at the theoretical junior learner. I see many connections to the junior learners that I have worked with. Today, I am going to share my experience with one of my tutoring students. Let’s call him Riley in this post!

Learner Profile

• Name: Riley H.
• Grade: 5
• Subject: Mathematics
• Strengths: curious, loves challenges, “go-getter”, mental math, critical thinking, decisive
• Weaknesses: impatience, unorganized, prideful

Connections I Noticed…

1) Growth Mindset

Riley loves challenges. He loves it whenever the math problems are extra difficult. He often asks to solve math problems that are above his grade level and enjoys learning new math concepts. Even when he doesn’t understand the question, he would ask “why” and persist to find out the answer. Like the image we discussed in class, I am happy to say that Riley certainly has demonstrated these traits during my time with him.

2) TPACK – Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge

Riley poses characteristics of a 21st century learner, a modern, and digital learner. He learns to use various applications quickly (ie. Zoom) and is responsive to game based learning tools (ie. IXL math, Knowledge Hook, Kahoot). Due to his energetic nature, I have to be creative with my engagement tools in order to maximize his learning. In my tutoring session, I often utilize technology to engage Riley and support his learning. I personally think it always does the trick! I noticed that these tools really help him to stay focused and interact with the content that are being taught to him.

3) Maker Space Mindset

Last but not least, in the “Rethinking Learning” video, I resonated strongly to the idea of “becoming the producer and the creator”, instead of just soaking in information like a sponge. I personally also believe in proactive learning where students learn best when you are not just synthesizing the content but they are creating their very own product WITH the knowledge. In Riley’s case, he created his very own Kahoot game to demonstrate his knowledge in the 2-Steps Algebra unit. I still remember when Riley said, “It was so fun, can I make my own Kahoot again for this unit? I want to challenge my siblings.”

I hope you enjoy reading my experience with Riley. Feel free to leave a comment below and I would love to hear about your experiences with Junior learners!