Reflection+and+Summary


 * Reflection and Summary**

I have grown professionally in a number of ways according to the Wisconsin Educator Standards identified in my plan, including Standard #1: Teachers know the subjects they are teaching. I can confidently say that I am more comfortable with the male voice and how it changes. I am able to pick out repertoire that will fit them in choir. In addition, I am able to warm up and rehearse the male voice effectively and help them through their voice change. I know my content better because of the activities completed in this plan.

Wisconsin Educator Standard #4: Teachers know how to teach. I have grown professionally with my teaching strategies through this plan as well. I have developed many different approaches to educating my male singers about their voice. The voice chart helps students know the notes that they can sing. Students are now able to describe and articulate how their voice is changing. They are also able to warm-up so as to keep their treble voice active throughout their high school career, and thus allow their lower voice to develop further as well. I am confident that these teaching strategies developed throughout this plan help my students succeed.

My professional growth has had a tremendous effect on student learning. I have worked diligently to learn as much as possible about the male voice. Midwest Vocal Express has helped me learn the ins and outs of teaching male singers. The Henry Leck DVD and book has given me tried and true accounts of teaching the expanding male voice. Finally, Harmony University provided me with a variety of repertoire ideas that has helped my male singers be even more successful. My students are more knowledgeable and can sing better because of these professional development opportunities.

The collaboration between Midwest Vocal Express, Harmony University, and observing local colleagues has allowed me to grow as a professional. In turn, my students have been able to see how their singing affects a community of people outside of the school setting. Collaborating with others is a key component in music making. The opportunites that we have had through other peoples’ expertise has made this entire experience worthwhile.