TPA Response

During my journey as a teacher candidate in the past year the TPA format has been used rather regularly, so when we were given one in English 493 it was a familiar planning tool. The idea of filling out four pages of lesson material may not be the most exciting approach to planning but the TPA is beneficial for assuring that all components of a lesson are thoroughly planned and met. In most other classes we have been given a a series of boxes to fill in as the format, in this classroom the format is more freeform (no boxes; listed points) and explains what is expected in better detail.

When I was first shown a TPA format I was overwhelmed with wording and questions that I was not sure how to answer. Each education class that I have been in we have learned how to thoroughly answer these questions and now in my second quarter of observation I am able to comprehend what is expected in each section.

An important knowledge that teachers candidates must have when planning their TPA is the “Context for Learning: (Attention to students’ backgrounds, interests and needs)” because it asks for details regarding English language proficiency levels, IEP’s/504’s, prior knowledge skills/academic backgrounds, etc. This knowledge of the students that will be partaking in the lesson is important to form the lesson to help students has success in gaining new knowledge.

The section I feel is very important on the TPA is the learning objectives. All lessons must have some objective of why students are participating, and what knowledge the students should gain. Finding CCSS can sometimes be challenging to pin down, but when the perfect objective is found the lesson is able to just flow.

One aspect of the TPA format that I still seem to find challenges with is the parent and community connections. I seem to always use the approach of a progress report or having parents sign homework sheets; however, I’m sure there are a lot of better options out there to help get parents and community members involved in the success of my students.