Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities (PPR) TExES Practice Exam

What should a mentor teacher advise a first-year math teacher to enhance student engagement during a get-acquainted activity?

1. Replace it with one that involves active student engagement in learning

2. Make it a whole-class activity

3. Complete it by having students introduce peers

4. Monitor and observe the activity

The correct answer is: Replace it with one that involves active student engagement in learning

Advising a first-year math teacher to replace the get-acquainted activity with one that involves active student engagement in learning is effective because it fosters a more dynamic and immersive learning environment. Active engagement strategies encourage students to participate in hands-on experiences that make the content more relatable and meaningful. This approach is vital, especially for a math class, where students may often feel disconnected from the material. By implementing an activity that promotes interaction, critical thinking, or collaboration, the mentor not only enhances student involvement but also helps to build a classroom community. When students are actively engaged, they are more likely to communicate, collaborate, and invest in their learning, which is essential for building rapport and excitement within the classroom. Through an engaging get-acquainted activity, students can better understand their peers, improve social skills, and feel more comfortable in their learning environment. This sets a positive tone for future lessons, encouraging an atmosphere where students feel valued and motivated to participate.