If you are interested only in the short version of my teaching philosophy:  I feel that if I keep it fun enough, interesting enough, low-key enough, and move slow enough, then hopefully some will develop the love for the sciences that I have.  Some of these will go on to teach, to preach, to govern, to create, and to discover new things.  What more can I say?  Now, for those of you who desire the long version:
     I believe that (although many high-school students find chemistry to be very challenging) everyone should have an opportunity to study chemistry, as it is a very important science to society, especially in terms of the benefits gained from chemistry-based discoveries.  I have found that the students who do the best in chemistry are present in class regularly, get actively involved, and choose to attend seriously to their work. So in brief:  Your child's level of success can be improved by their presence, participation, and practice!  And, your child's success will lead to our society's success.  Since I'm interested in the success of my society, let me expand on the 3 ways in which I feel your child can improve his/her understanding of chemistry.

     First, as we meet every-other day (and thus cover two or more "lessons" during one class session), daily attendance in class is critical.  Second, as chemistry concepts are very difficult for high school students to comprehend, active positive student involvement during class is essential.   When students participate in class everyone benefits and the environment becomes invigorating.   When students ask questions, they not only help themselves learn, but they also help others learn.  Some students have a more passive learning style -- this is fine, as long as they stay mentally involved with the class, a student can certainly learn quietly and individually.  But, unacceptable is a group of students who prefer to spend the period chatting:  It is disruptive to the class as a whole and will not be tolerated.  Third, as chemistry topics are cumulative, focus during homework (review/practice) is necessary to aid the memory-building aspect.  Unfortunately, if a topic is somehow "missed" or not embedded into memory, a student will find it difficult to progress with the next topic.

     Regarding teacher-focused ways to improve learning, I would say that a teacher should keep the learning environment welcome and inviting, and that hands-on activities should be provided so that students want to come to class.   Additionally, I feel that the teacher is responsible for creating an atmosphere in which students are unafraid to ask for help, and are assured that their concerns will be addressed within a minimal amount of time, such as a class period. 

     Now, let's face it, some students will still require additional outside help.  I am usually available, at least 3 days a week, to help the students who ask for help.  And, there is one more important subject that falls within the scope of my teaching philosophy in regard to parents--  Parents, please ask your child to communicate to me directly when he/she encounters a problem.  Think about it, if you always do the calling and emailing, then you are perfecting your communication skills.  I feel that it is your child who should be calling and emailing, and thereby perfecting his/her communication skills.  Think of all the writing practice your child would get from formating the email asking me about extra help, or about a missing grade, an attendance concern, an incomplete assignment, a low test score, etc. 
     Well, that about sums it up; and, I wish everyone reading this a good year!

     Mrs. Ringler, November 2009