Teaching Life Science B.A.Sc.

1.  A teacher must understand the central concepts, tools of inquiry, and structures of the disciplines taught and be able to create learning experiences that make these aspects of subject matter meaningful for students (STEP SEP #1 Competence in Field – Subpart 2).
2. A teacher must understand how students learn and develop and must provide learning opportunities that support a student’s intellectual, social, and personal development (STEP SEP #2 Student Learning – Subpart 3).
3. A teacher must understand how students differ in their approaches to learning and create instructional opportunities that are adapted to students with diverse backgrounds and exceptionalities (STEP SEP #3 Diverse Learners – Subpart 4).
4. A teacher must understand and use a variety of instructional strategies to encourage student development of critical thinking, problem solving, and performance skills (STEP SEP #4 Instructional Strategies – Subpart 5).
5. A teacher must be able to use an understanding of individual and group motivation and behavior to create learning environments that encourage positive social interaction, active engagement in learning, and self-motivation (STEP SEP #5 Learning environment – Subpart 6).
6. A teacher must be able to use knowledge of effective verbal, nonverbal, and media communication techniques to foster active inquiry, collaboration, and supportive interaction in the classroom (STEP SEP #6 Communication – Subpart 7).
7. A teacher will demonstrate writing at the advanced level for topics and intentions used in communication of educational purposes (STEP UMD 6a Writing).
8. A teacher must be able to plan and manage instruction based upon knowledge of subject matter, students, the community, and curriculum goals (STEP SEP #7 (Planning Instruction – Subpart 8). 
9. A teacher must understand and be able to use formal and informal assessment strategies to evaluate and ensure the continuous intellectual, social, and physical development of the student (STEP SEP #8 Assessment – Subpart 9).
10. A teacher must be a reflective practitioner who continually evaluates the effects of choices and actions on the learning community, and who actively seeks out opportunities for professional growth (STEP SEP #9 Reflection and professional development – Subpart 10).
11. A teacher must be able to communicate and interact with parents or guardians, families, school colleagues, and the community to support student learning and well-being (STEP SEP #10 Collaboration, ethics, and relationships – Subpart 11).