See [Teaching] Differently

Teaching for Transformation (TfT) is an instructional approach we’re beginning at DCS that invites teachers to design learning experiences that challenge students to “see the story, and live the story”.

The Journey Begins

In November, the TfT early adopters group was invited to think about our Deep Hope for our students as well as to develop a Storyline.  A Deep Hope is a summary statement of our deepest desires for our students now and in the future.  A storyline is like a thread that is woven through all learning that ties everything into the overall biblical story.

Deep Hope

My Deep Hope is this: for students to understand God’s Story, see their identity as God’s children, and join together in the work of restoration.  I want students to grasp that they’re part of something bigger than themselves and that they play an important part in God’s unfolding story. I want to provide opportunities for students to engage with that story in their learning. 

My deep hope is for students to understand God’s Story, see their identity as God’s children, and join together in the work of restoration.

See [ ] Differently

The Storyline for my classroom is “See [ _____ ] Differently”. This storyline invites students to engage with whatever we’re studying through a different lens, from aspects of an ancient civilization to a theme from a novel that we’re reading in class. The storyline provides a framework to approach any topic and explore how it might fit into the grand story that God is writing.  

The process of forming a deep hope and storyline was challenging, and at the same time it was a valuable opportunity to think intentionally about what I’m prioritizing in the classroom.  I’m excited to apply what I’ve been learning in the classroom and to see how this intentional step in faith formation might inspire students to find their place in the ongoing work of restoration 

 


Matt DeBoer

Matt DeBoer teaches 6th grade social studies & reading at Denver Christian School.  Matt enjoys spending time with his family. He is an avid golfer and also enjoys reading and watching sports – especially the Denver Broncos and New York Yankees.

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