Standard 5: Application of Content

JUSTIFICATION & REFLECTION

I chose this artifact because it shows how I help students connect photography to real-life issues by researching local problems, documenting them through photography, and considering different perspectives. This demonstrates how I guide students to use their skills, think critically, and create meaningful work.

Overall, this project reinforced that students are more engaged when their learning connects to their community and issues they care about. Moving forward, I’ll continue designing projects that connect content to real life –– giving students opportunities to take action and help them grow as thinkers, creators, and community members.

DESCRIPTION

The artifact is the assignment sheet for the “Community Photo Project” that I gave to my Advanced Photography students last year. This required students to create a photography project that either explored a local issue affecting Wahiawā or highlighted a significant aspect of the community –– such as a place, tradition, or person.

STANDARDS

HTSB Hawai‘i Teacher Performance Standard #5: Application of Content

The teacher understands how to connect concepts and use differing perspectives to engage learners in critical thinking, creativity, and collaborative problem solving related to authentic local and global issues.

Performances

• 5(b): The teacher engages learners in applying content knowledge to real world problems through the lens of interdisciplinary themes

Essential Knowledge

• 5(j): The teacher understands how current interdisciplinary themes (e.g., civic literacy, health literacy, global awareness) connect to the core subjects and knows how to weave those themes into meaningful learning experiences.

Critical Dispositions

• 5(s): The teacher values flexible learning environments that encourage learner exploration, discovery, and expression across content areas.