Independent Component 1 Plan Approval

Write a description of what you plan on doing for your independent study component.
   So far i have registered for a total of 3 seminars regarding teaching and history. A total of about 10 hours of work just in the month of November alone. I plan to continue to attend teaching seminars, and perhaps watch a documentary to reach the 30 hours.


Describe in detail how you think your plan will meet the 30 hours work requirement.
  The first 10 hours i plan on attending seminars. For the other 20 i still do not know. Perhaps i can attend more seminars or try to take a class. 


How does your independent study component relate to your EQ?   
  My EQ "What is the best way to teach U.S. History?" So attending these seminars I hope to learn more about teaching styles and different types of content. These seminars are MEANT for teachers so if by some rare chance the seminar itself doesn't help, i can ask around for information.

Defining the Essential Question

(1) What is your EQ?

What is the most successful way to become an American History Teacher and to teach it.

(2) Define the words in your EQ to make sure we are on the same page regarding what your EQ means.

Successful: Becoming an effective teacher, able to make sure students understand the topic.

(3) What are some possible answers to your EQ so far? 

• teaching history backwards
• making history "come alive"
• engaging student
• getting master’s degree in history
• motivate students
• overcome negative views on subject

(4) What has been your most important source and why?  Be specific.  If it is a person, name them and what they do, if it is an article, book or video, name the title and author. 

So far I've really liked, and found that "The Pedagogical Strengths of Teaching History Backwards by: Kenneth W. Hermann" was the most interesting and useful source. 

Second Interview Questions

What made you decide to teach history?
What school did you go and what degree(s) do you hold?
How long did it take you to get started (find a job after college)?
What do you think is an important trait a Historian should have?
At what point in your life did you realize you wanted to be a Historian?
Did you have an other history related job prior to teaching?