RACHEL E.

DERUSHA
Present Address 1760 Broadway, Apt. N105 Ann Arbor, MI 48109 616.723.4540 rderusha@umich.edu Permanent Address 22725 16th Avenue Conklin, MI 49403

On the surface, the purpose of Spanish class is to learn communication skills. When students learn to speak Spanish, it allows them to connect on a deeper level with individuals here and abroad. There are 387 million native Spanish speakers and millions of second language learners, giving students access to information, knowledge, jobs, culture, art, and human relationships. However, I hope to teach more than just communication, but critical thinking skills. Through the process of learning Spanish, students will learn to analyze, interpret, reflect, problem solve, and question what theyre told. As second language learners, students will master the art of multi-tasking and will learn to prioritize information cognitively. I hope to teach Spanish in such a way that my students learn to accept and appreciate other cultures. To be a contributing part of global society, it is critical that young people learn to be open-minded and to see the world from others perspectives. By teaching tolerance and acceptance, my students will learn the importance of respecting others, something that applies to every social situation they will ever face. I want my students to realize that they are part of something bigger than themselves or their high school. Humanity has so much to offer; through other languages and cultures, one can learn more than simply new knowledge, but other ways of thinking that dont even exist in English. Furthermore, I will see to it that my students learn the value of hard work, how to study and how to learn something new--essential skills that will carry them through their high school, college, and professional careers. As a teacher, I dont want to just bring out the best in my students; I want them to find that within themselves. I will work to guide my students to unlock their full potential and to realize that they have the power to achieve their dreams and goals. Perhaps more importantly, I want to lead my students to realize that they have the ability to make an impact on the lives of others. In order to engage my students and help them achieve such dynamic growth, I will work to build an effective relationship with every student based on personal interaction. By getting to know my students, I can better assess their needs and tailor my curricula and activities to best suit them as a unique class. As students build a relationship with me, our interactions will become more meaningful and thus the class and coursework as a whole will develop into something important to them. I will support my students as people and encourage them to be confident. As young adults, a positive self-image will empower them to think more, do more, and achieve more.

RACHEL E. DERUSHA
Present Address 1760 Broadway, Apt. N105 Ann Arbor, MI 48109 616.723.4540 rderusha@umich.edu Permanent Address 22725 16th Avenue Conklin, MI 49403

Finally, I will work to develop independent individuals. This is perhaps the most challenging part of my job as a teacher: to help students develop these skills and reach these conclusions about the world, to some degree, on their own. Experience has taught me that students who are spoon-fed and left with little independence do not make the most significant gains. When students feel like they are in control and are given the consistent support necessary to do so as adolescents, they become more invested and perform better in class. I will give students more responsibility for their learning gradually, with the goal being that they take control of their own progress and learn when to ask for help. I hope to be a teacher who not only makes sure students learn Spanish, but also fosters personal growth and encourages independence. Teaching at its core is about transformation, and I will work to support students as individuals and cultivate their minds as they become young adults.