Kristin Suer

Teaching Philosophy

IMPORTANT SKILLS I WANT TO TEACH MY STUDENTS

The most important skills I want to teach my students is not just the content of earth science but how to think scientifically. Formulating conclusions from the process of interpreting data is something that will develop as the year goes on. I also think it’s important for students to understand how they learn best and how to develop those study skills to be successful in Upper School. I rotate groups weekly and expect my students to work with multiple types of peers during labs. This builds flexibility, leadership, cooperation, and communication skills.

TEACHING METHODS TO REACH THESE GOALS

My classroom is set up to increase conversations and groupwork with large tables. I assist the more active learners with wobble stools, bouncy bands on their chairs, and fidget toys during assessments. Students learn about themselves throughout the year through various activities and exercises. I have a very interactive, experiential teaching method where we often go outside, act things out, or even sing a catchy song! To understand our natural world, I enable students to inquire about science after relating it with their past experiences. I scaffold the curriculum and slowly increase the expectations to gain their confidence in the subject matter.

MY FAVORITE PROJECTS

I can’t just pick one favorite activity of the year! In the space unit, students group up to create children’s books about a particular planet. Then they read them to the Lower School students and it’s such a touching experience! In the atmospheric science unit, students come up with memes about extreme weather phenomena and have a blast integrating the facts with some humor. Lastly, in the environmental earth unit, students gain a sense of agency as they choose from a series of challenges in the #TakeAction Project. They have to involve their family, friends, and community in completing daily tasks with an eco-conscious mindset. The reflections are eye-opening, as my students learn how much they can do for the Earth by simple changes in their everyday lives.

WHAT I LIKE BEST ABOUT TEACHING AT SEVEN HILLS

I have taught at various schools and outdoor education centers all over the country and Seven Hills by far has the most respectful, honest, and kind students! The community is so close that you get to know families and care about each other beyond the school day. The faculty care about their work and are constantly updating their curriculum and activities to meet the students’ interests and the evolving global world affairs. This place is not a job for me, it’s my passion and I enjoy coming here every day!