Midterm Alternative Assessment

For
The Teaching Profession

Submitted by:

Ma. Sahlee Mae D. Ngunyi

DIT-Residential

I-C

Submitted to:

Dr. Ruthell Moreno

Faculty-in-Charge

West Visayas State University- College of Education

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 To the Reader

This e-portfolio is a partial fulfillment of the Course The Teaching Profession which
covers the first two lessons: Lesson 1 – The Teacher as a Person and a professional
and Lesson 2 – The Teacher and the Society. This portfolio presents the ten outputs I
have submitted so far, which I considered to be that best among the rest. Each of
which has my own reflection of how I feel about and what made me answer the
questions. Also included an over-all reflection of the two topics presenting a summary
of the acquisition of knowledge from the course thus far. May this requirement be
insightful as it immensely help my understanding as I pursue the teaching profession.

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 Table of Contents

Cover Page 1

To the Reader 2

Unit 1: Lesson 1 Teaching as a Person and as a Profession (Teaching as Profession) 4

Unit 1: Lesson 2 Teaching as Vocation and Mission 6

Unit 1: Lesson 2 Teaching as Vocation and Mission Reflection Essay 9

Unit 1: Lesson 3 Teaching, the Noblest of all Professions 11

Unit 1: Lesson 3 Teaching, the Noblest of all Professions (Heart of Teacher) 12

Unit 1 Reflection Worksheet 14

Unit 2: The Teacher and the Society (The Demands of Society from the Teacher as a 16
Professional)

Unit 2: Lesson 2 The Demands of the Society from the Teacher as a Person 18

Unit 2: The teacher and The Society Essay 22

Unit 2 Reflection Worksheet 24

Mu Over-all Reflection 26

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 Unit I: The Teaching Profession
Lesson 1: Teaching as a Profession

Do the following activity:

Write a 250-word essay of your insights about “Teaching Profession: Then and Now” (submit
your answer in a separate file). (15 points)

“Teaching Profession: Then and Now”

Throughout the history of mankind, the teaching profession has been evolving in
order to address the needs of the learners. It is a phenomenon that happens
inevitably as times change. The changing times call for new learning, thus the
teaching profession keeps on developing.

Teaching the young minds has been presented by the drawings and artifacts from
earliest civilizations. It may be informal training of survival skills, livelihood, farming
or household chores; older ones teach the younger ones so they would be able to
survive on their own. Teaching likewise happened in the form of virtues presented in
parables by Christ, and myth, epics or legends that were told by the elders to the
younger ones and served as a guide on how to live harmoniously with one another.

Because of teaching, learning develops, and therefore entails for development and
reformation in the manner of teaching as well. The learners become smarter;
knowledge and skills increase. The old manner of teaching becomes no longer
applicable. From an informal setting, the teaching profession became more organized
and followed a set of rules. Formal educational setting was established and a teacher
presents himself as the authority and center of learning and students are seated in
an arranged manner and are given little privilege to express his ideas or opinions.
However, proponents of education later believed that teaching will be more effective
if the method will be centered and focused on the learners – that is making them an
active participant by allowing them to solve problems and discover things by
themselves. Formal organized sitting arrangements may no longer be effective.
Teaching profession has become more of facilitating and guiding the learners to the
right path and correcting them only when needed. To add, parents are being involved
thus the burden of teaching is shared. Also, together with the advent of computers,
teaching pedagogy has become more convenient to deliver.

At this very moment in time, the teaching profession is being challenged again. The
“new normal” created an immense transformation on the way learning has to be
delivered. Face to face classroom setting has been replaced by modular, distant or
blended learning. Professional teachers must undergo different forms of training to
hone skills and improve knowledge in order to create comprehensive teaching
materials and plan for the appropriate teaching approach. They need to create unit

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plans for modules that would be easily understood by students even on their own,
and lessons and activities that are fitted for both synchronous discussions and
asynchronous activities. The teaching profession at this challenging time undergoes
a pivotal change. Teachers need to adapt and be flexible as the “new normal” calls for
an entirely different way of delivering knowledge to the learners.

The teaching profession has been changing, still is changing and is definitely still
going to change. It is indeed a noble path of dedication to bring and impact learning
to the minds, along with the changing times.

Reflection:

From the pre-recorded history of mankind, the teaching profession has been
taking place, and it has been changing according to the needs of the learners.
This activity made me realize that one of the major components of human
existence is learning and teaching. It is a necessity in order for humans to survive
and to fit in with the changing times. Definitely it is a continuous process that
would keep on evolving. And it is a fact that learning can never happen if teaching
is ineffective.

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 Unit I: The Teaching Profession
Lesson 2: Teaching as Vocation & Mission

Do the following activity: (20 points)

(Answer in a separate file or paper.)
A. Interview a schoolteacher who has at least 3 years of teaching experience from any level—
elementary, secondary, or college and ask him/her these questions:
1. What are your “joys and sorrows” in teaching?
2. What made you stay long in your career as a teacher?

1. What are your “joys and sorrows” in teaching?

the joy…

Nina found true joy in teaching because of the relationship she was able to establish
with different personalities and minds. This friendship between her and the young
learners made her feel young as well. She learned so many things through the
learners’ perception, attitude and condition in life. Young learners are especially
innocent and worry-free. She particularly learned to take life easy and smile amidst
adversity. The whole classroom is composed of varied personalities that she needed
to deal with every day, and the day to day interaction with different personalities
made Nina understand human behavior. Nina, as well, treasured the experiences
during times when the learners showed their genuine closeness and respect to her as
their “mother” in school like confiding their deepest secrets and sorrows. It made
her love young learners more and one of the reasons that made her excited to face a
foreseeable tiresome day.

Another feature that gave Nina joy is the salary increase, the incentives and the
bonuses that she got each year as a public school teacher. Like anyone else, nothing
makes a job merrier than the financial gains an employee receives. With it, are the
monetary privilege and assistance through loans that she could take advantage of.
“Pira malang sweldo ka maestra karang una man? Buhinan pa ka mga utang wara
don bilin. Sadya gid kon may increase and bonuses hay maka shopping sa Iloilo.” Her
meager income would support her daughter’s education studying in U.P. Los Banos
and an addition to her salary would bring great joy to the whole family.

the sorrow:

Being a public school teacher is not just about teaching but piles of paperwork as well.
According to Nina, when she started working in the early 80’s, she needed to write all
her lesson plans on a lesson plan book and all grades submitted for checking, and on
the cards by hand. Computers were never heard of and none of the teachers ever used
typewriters and even the office secretary would be lucky to have one. Everything was

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“mano-mano” and must be very careful of not making any erasures. As far as she can
remember, the only time she had a document type written was her application letter
submitted to the Division Office. She grew callus on her finger and there was a time
when she got frosted shoulder because of too much writing.

Nina’s first assignment was in a remote barangay which required her to walk for a
couple of hours. She took a shortcut across a forest with a muddy and rugged path,
and had to cross a river and a stream. Imagine the hardship she had to endure
especially during rainy seasons. It was a serious “initiation” for her. There were times
that she had to absent herself because the river and stream were impossible to cross,
and would usually end the class by noon time so that darkness or bad weather would
not meet her along the way. She couldn’t find any boarding houses within the school
vicinity so she trod this path in solitude and agony for the next 4 years. The second
assignment was better and has a shorter distance but still, not a job site that would
provide convenience when it comes to commuting. It was until the last 12 years of
her profession when she was finally assigned to the public school just next to her
home.

Along with the remoteness from civilization, Nina observed that the government back
then gave little support to the public schools in remote places. Remote as it is, it
seemed that they were neglected that learning materials were not enough and
facilities were dilapidated. It was just like the community itself. Children in general
were undernourished and lack of hygiene that she would buy few things to share with
them. Most of the parents were “sacadas” and “ga-inadlaw” as sugar cane cutter or
rice planter or harvester – a seasonal job with a meager wage that could hardly feed
a family with three children, nor could send them to school. For Nina, it broke her
heart seeing her learners struggling to have education and tomorrow’s uncertainty
whether the learner could continue is an addition to the bad part of the story.

2. What made you stay long in your career as a teacher?

Nina was honest to say that in the early stage of her career, with all the hardships
and sorrows, Nina was about to quit. But she had a sense of guilt and was scared that
she might be remorseful in the end because of not fulfilling her duty. “Paano na lang
abi mga bata kon indi ko pagtudluan?” She came from a family of educators, but still,
that wasn’t the reason for keeping on. Believing that she greatly contributes in
shaping the minds and the future of the young ones was enough to stay in the
profession. Instead of giving up, she became diligent in inculcating values and
knowledge into the mind and heart of the future leaders who yearn change for the
society. For her, it is always a great pride and joy to know that her students have
become professionals and experts in their own field such as seafarers, nurses and
teachers like her. I quote a line “Dumduman mo to ang gin pamistahan ta sa Taminla
nga nami nga balay nga duro roses sa gwa? Estudyante ko ‘to…” I could still picture

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in my mind the gleam in her eyes as she was talking about this detail. Knowing that
her students are well and good brings priceless joy to her. It was indeed a vocation
and a mission for her. Vocation because she grew passion molding ang caring for the
young and mission because it was a duty which needed to be fulfilled. The joy,
contentment and fulfillment, and the learning obtained during the period of her
teaching career became her fortress and gratification that made her to be more
committed and loved teaching.

Mrs. Nina Dagoon - Daguro is a retired seasoned public school teacher for 45 years. She is pro-knowledge, an inspirer, and a great aunt. I chose her among others
despite being retired because I see her as a boundless mentor in the teaching career. Interview was done through Zoom as she is safe and happy in Dubai with her
daughter and family.

Reflection:

This activity was the most enjoyable and inspiring of all. It gave me a chance to
communicate with my loving aunt whom I missed so much, and I learned a valuable
lesson from this: Teaching is a profession above all professions because a person
becomes professional due to love, sacrifices s and perseverance of a teacher. It
may not be perceived as well decorated profession by others but the passion and
the determination to effect change on the lives of the learners contributed greatly
to the society.

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 Unit I: The Teaching Profession
Lesson 2: Teaching as Vocation & Mission

Do the following activity: (10 points)

Read and reflect on this excerpt from the True Decalogue of Apolinario Mabini and answer these
questions: What mission has God given to teachers? As a would-be teacher, how will you
contribute to the progress of humanity?

Develop the special talents that God has given you, working and studying according to
your capabilities, never straying from the path of good and justice in order to achieve your own
perfection, and by this means you will contribute to the progress of humanity: thus you will
accomplish the mission that God himself has given you in this life, and achieving this, you will
have honor, and having honor, you will be glorifying God. (Source:
http://malacanang.gov.ph/8132-the-true-decalogue-by-apolinario-mabini/Retrieved, June 22,
2018)

REFLECTION
1 Peter 4:10 - As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another
as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

Christ was sent to minister, so as teachers are sent to teach. Like Him, teachers do
not only inspire or impart academic learning, but to influence and create change in
the hearts and lives of the learners. It is about nurturing and molding a character that
would make them a better person, capable of loving and caring for others and the
society as a whole.

The adage I am fond of using, “I can’t give what I do not have”. Being a teacher is a
noble profession. Seeking God for support is the ultimate key in order for me to
contribute to humanity. I need to establish a close relationship with God in order to
have wisdom, be loving, meek and humble and be able encourage the learners.
Establishing a strong relationship with God would allow me to have a Christ-like
behavior.

I cannot rely on my capabilities alone. I may be able to teach but it would create a
superficial learning because it is something that would not be deeply rooted into the
lives of the learners. It is from God that true wisdom comes and would lead learners
to the right direction. Knowledge that would support fact with Biblical values –
something considered to be highly intellectual but would produce a fair and sound
judgment and make a person true and honest. Spending time with Him through
praying and studying His words would allow me to hear His words and follow His
leading day by day. Christ is love Himself. There would come a time that a teacher’s
love would be challenged. Being like Christ would make me capable of loving even

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the least lovable in the most loveless times. But a learner who feels that he is loved
and valued, develops a sense of pride and could achieve more. And if we have love,
all the rest follows. Being humble and meek stimulates respect, which in turn provides
a chance to influence. An apology calms the mind and heart and would create an awe.
A teacher with love never judges based on the strength or weakness of every learner
but it is how she encourages and inspires the learner to learn more. Lastly, being with
Him is marked by peace because of trust no matter what the circumstance is; relying
on His strength and resting on Him instead of being anxious. These are qualities that
are necessary for me to be able to contribute to humanity. But I can’t cultivate them
on my own. They are the fruit of the Spirit and He alone can produce them in my life.
With a Christ-like attitude, I could become a living testimony. If my actions are always
full of love, a heart overflowing with joy, a peace of mind amidst the chaos, and
consistently demonstrate patience, kindness and humility, imparting true and deeper
knowledge would be an easy task to do and knowledge will spread. This creates a
ripple that would contribute to the progress of humanity.

Reflection:

Any plan, goal or purpose placed on the hands of God will always be successful.
There is a saying that says: “Man proposes, God disposes.” Teachers always have
the intention in helping the learners achieve their dreams, but it is God who makes
everything possible. God gives the understanding to the mind and love and
compassion to the heart in order for the teacher to keep on going on. God-centered
profession would inspire a person to constantly fortify her faculties in order to
give the best of her ability to the learners. True love that comes from God radiates
from the heart of a teacher and inspire learners to learn because they feel valued,
understood and, of course, loved.

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 Unit I: The Teaching Profession
Lesson 3: Teaching, the Noblest of all Professions

Do the following activity: (10 points)

Which of the stories that we discussed in Unit 1 Lesson 3 inspired/touched you most?
Why? What realizations and/reflections in relation to the stories of the Filipino teachers that you
have? Write your answers to these questions in the box provided below.

MY REFLECTION

The story that inspired me the most if that of Sir Efren Bino. He is an epitome
of a Filipino being enduring, hardworking and dedicated. He was able to endure
hardships from the start and tirelessly continued to be so even he became a teacher.
Being licensed did not make him proud and hubristic but he was humble and
responsible that he took jobs when nobody did. Taking various responsibilities in one
institution is just enormous for one individual to do alone. I would assume that he did
it without any financial gain. He is so passionate that he dedicated and committed his
time, effort and comfort. For him it is about the welfare of the school in order for it
be up and running, therefore providing education to the young minds.

Being a teacher is not just about the knowledge gained and skills developed
throughout the years within the walls of a university. It is even beyond the license to
qualify. It is more of having the passion in doing it and the happiness and self-
fulfillment a person gets. It is also the commitment on achieving the goal which is for
the benefit of every learner and the betterment of the society. Being a teacher takes
an immense responsibility because we mold an individual to become the best version
of themselves. A child who has been guided well and become successful greatly
contributes to the society since these children serve as the backbone of a country’s
success and development. The responsibilities are not always easy; hardships and
sacrifices come with it and if a person is not willing to take it with pride and joy, she
is not worthy to take the noble profession of being a teacher.

Reflection:

The life of Sir Efren Bino amazed me with an awe. We can seldom see people
doing such kind of sacrifice just for the service of others. On a personal note,
this is something to emulate no matter how hard it could be. Any profession
does not promise a bed of roses anyway. It is good to know the experiences of
others so us who are still learning would know what to expect and be better
prepared.

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 Unit I: The Teaching Profession
Lesson 3: Teaching, the Noblest of all Professions

Do the following activity: (20 points)

After viewing the “Heart of a Teacher” retrieved from the link below, do the following:
(https://educationandbehavior.com/professional-development-videos-for-teachers/)
● choose/take a picture of something or draw something in the smaller box that best
represent your views of the teaching profession after watching the “Heart of a Teacher”
● write three sentences that sum up your commitment to the teaching profession

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Reflection:

This is a mind and heart provoking activity because it made me critically analyze
of what kind of a teacher I would commit myself into; documenting a promise
that must be fulfilled and can be changed only for the better. I scrutinized my
inner self for the purpose of making a very honest vow, and as I was reviewing
my answer, I realized that the commitments only focus on the learner and does
not give any emphasis on how I would nurture myself as a teacher. However, as
I reflect deeper, I realized that it must be a mother’s instinct of putting the
“children” first before my needs, and that my needs come next depending on
the needs of the learners. A need for nurturing myself is automatic and a
constant process that can never be set apart as I commit myself to this
profession.

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 The Teaching Profession Reflection Worksheet
Unit 1

Direction: Fill-out the following table.

I learned/realized that . . . I believe that the lessons are I want to know more
important to me because . . . about . . .

- the teaching profession - it would make me - what to expect and

requires deeper equipped with knowledge what programs are
knowledge and expert and skills needed in order there in order to be
skills in facilitating to provide students with an effective teacher
learning. One must not learning opportunities to especially in this
stop learning in meet curriculum “new normal”. What
enhancing her teaching outcomes, and be aware are the government
abilities so she will be on how and what programs that would
abreast with the changes appropriate materials to enhance the
that are happening choose during times of standards of the
around. A teacher learns change. teacher and learning
while she teaches. process?

- one needs to have (1) the - how to encourage a

- realizing the teaching
passion to teach, in the colleague that
profession as both a
desire of doing so gives seemed to be
vocation and a mission in
them satisfaction and unwilling to take the
life contribute greatly to
fulfillment, (2) to realize responsibility as a
the success of the
that becoming a teacher teacher, and also how
teaching and learning
has a goal that needs to to be an effective
process. A teacher with a
be accomplished, which is game changer in this
positive outlook will
to impact knowledge and time of pandemic.
produce a positive effect
set of values to the
on the learners,
learners no matter what
functioning well as a
circumstance there is.
member of the society.

- it is important for a
- molding a positive
teacher to emphasize the
attitude on a learner - strategies on how to
development of values
about life, relationship effectively employ
and employ practices that
and particularly about values and positive
develop positive self-
himself makes me realize self-concept while on
concept in learners.
that is far more important distance or remote
than the subject lesson learning since we do

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 itself. Lessons learned not have the privilege
would be less effective of meeting the
and retention of whatever students face to face
was learned will be lesser
therefore I could say that
I was a failure and all the
hard work and time were
put in vain.

- being a teacher does not

- being a teacher is setting
stop inside the classroom.
a good example. I have to
I would always be known - about settings or
do what I teach. Learners
as a teacher anytime or chances of being a
would also learn from my
anywhere. role model despite
goings and would do the
distance learning.
same.

Reflection:

As the word implies, reflection allows me to delve deeper into the contents
of the whole lesson. The questions in each column prompts me to answer
“what” questions – “What have I learned?”, “What is the relevance of the
lesson to my learning as a soon to be teacher?”, “What else do I need to
know?”. It helps me assess what I have learned so far and takes me back to
the notes if there are important points that I missed.

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 Unit 2: The Teacher and the Society
Lesson 1: The Demands of Society from the Teacher as a
Professional

Sentence Completion
Instructions: Complete the sentences to complete the idea. You may add additional sentences
to support your thought.

1. To meet the expectations of the people in the community, as a teacher I must….

….be competent and effective not only in the delivery of lessons but also in creating
a positive change in the total well-being of a learner. I have to be proficient in the
use of instructional strategies, curriculum materials, advanced educational
technologies, and classroom management techniques since these are the essential
tools for an effective teaching and learning process. The focal point of my profession
are the learners and therefore I must help all learners succeed and to ensure that all
students develop to their fullest potential. I also need to have a thorough
understanding of the developmental levels of each student because everyone is
unique, and therefore avoid comparisons between students. With these, I have to
hold strong beliefs about the potential for all children, regardless of students'
ethnicity, language, gender, socioeconomic status, family backgrounds and living
conditions, abilities, or disabilities. And through all of these, the society would build
trust in me as a teacher. As a teacher, I must have a solid grasp of the content I teach
since it is impossible to transfer knowledge into the minds of the students if I am not
knowledgeable myself. I need to be continuously informed of exemplary practices
and to demonstrate a desire for professional development. Lastly, I must have a
repertoire of instructional strategies and resources to create meaningful learning
experiences that promote students' growth and development.

2. A teacher is considered a professional, he/she

… maintains the confidence of their students and parents. She must not
disclose anything related to the performance of their students.

… look, act, and interact with respect and purpose wherever and whenever.

… connected to their students and is able to adjust based on their students'

needs.

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… knows her content well – not necessarily must she know all the answers
but is also willing to admit that if ever and seek out additional resources when
needed. However, she is expected to be competent at all times.

… must build authentic relationships with her students and students' parents.
She spends time getting to know what motivates their students, build the
curriculum around this knowledge and allow students to make some of their
own choices about how and what they want to learn. She must help students
to feel valued in their own educational process and engage in meaningful
conversations about things that motivate them outside the classroom. She
appreciates the diversity created by each student in the class and tap into that
knowledge to create an environment of respect and group support.

… discerns pedagogy that comes her way, and not just accept immediately
and follow at once but must tailor her methods based on the needs of the
students.

… openly appreciates diversity, in which students are valued regardless of

their abilities or religion or race.

… humbles and is unassuming by letting the students know that she too, is
still learning. She shares what they learned in their latest professional
development and enthusiastically shares an article that relates to the subject
being studied and personally learned. She is willing to say, "I don't know. Let's
find that answer together."

Reflection

Answering the first question was a bit challenging for me because I have
not grasped the context of responsibility in the societal level. However,
while I was trying to digest the idea, I slowly realized the true sense of
being a professional teacher our teachings must not just for the academic
consumption but the true purpose of making an individual to be an
independent person who has the capacity to change his society through
innovative knowledge, constructive skill and humanitarian attitude.

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Unit 2 Lesson 2: The Demands of Society from the Teacher as a
Person

Poetry Integration
Instructions: Read the poem, “You Are a Teacher” and answer the questions that
follow: (Source: Bilbao, et. Al (2018). The teaching profession 4th ed.)

You are a Teacher

If I speak interestingly, effectively, and well,

But do not understand my students
I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal,
If I know all of the methods and techniques of teaching,
If I have complete faith that they will work,
So that I use them completely,
But think only of materials or techniques Instead of how they
can help my students,
I count for nothing
If I go the second mile in my teaching,
Give up many activities,
But do it without understanding,
It does no good,
Love is very patient, very kind;
Love is not jealous; it does not put on airs;
It is never tyrannic, never;
Yet does insist on truth;
It does not become angry; It is not resentful.
Love always expects the best of others;
It is gladdened when they live up to these expectations, Slow
to lose faith when they do not.
It will bear anything, Hope for anything, Endure anything.
This kind of love will never fail
If there are teaching methods, they will change; If there are
curricula, they will be revised.
For our knowledge is imperfect
And our teaching is imperfect,
And we are always looking for the better ways
Which an infinite God has placed ahead of us.
When I began to teach, I fumbled and failed;
Now I have put away some of my childish ways.
At present I am learning bit by bit;
But if I keep on seeking, I shall at last understand
As all along I myself have been understood.
So faith, hope and love endure. These are the great three
But the greater of them is love.

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Questions:

1. While reading the poem, what mental portrait of the teacher in the
classroom and the teacher in the community is painted in your mind?

It is the teacher’s role to offer every child a rich, rewarding, and unique
learning experience. Teachers design and guide students through engaging
learning opportunities. An educator's most important responsibility is to search
out and construct meaningful educational experiences that allow students to
solve real-world problems and show they have learned the big ideas, powerful
skills, and habits of mind and heart that meet agreed-on educational standards.
The fundamental job of teaching is no longer to distribute facts but to help
children learn how to use them by developing their abilities to think critically,
solve problems, make informed judgments, and create knowledge that benefits
both the students and society.

One can teach basic skills without love, but to truly make a difference in a
student’s life, there needs to be love. Love sees teaching as an art where we
explore different ways of connecting to subject matter and to students. Love
brings patience and understanding, which are so important in teaching. With
love, kindness follows. Kindness and compassion allow us to see our students
as individuals who are struggling and sometimes suffering. These allow us to
see ourselves in the student, even the student who we find is hard to relate to.
If our students feel that we care for them, this can be a strong motivation for
learning.

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 2. Read through the poem by replacing I with your name. It goes like this:
Calleigh, “You are a Teacher”.

“YOU ARE A TEACHER”.

If Sahlee speaks interestingly, effectively, and well,

But do not understand her students
Sahlee is A noisy gong or a clanging cymbal,
If Sahlee knows all of the methods and techniques of teaching,
If sahlee have complete faith that they will work,
So that sahlee uses them completely,
But think only of materials or techniques
Instead of how they can help Sahlee’s students,
Sahlee counts for nothing
If Sahlee goes the second mile in Sahlee’s teaching,
Give up many activities,
But do it without understanding,
It does no good,
Love is very patient, very kind;
Love is not jealous; it does not put on airs;
It is never tyrannic, never;
Yet does insist on truth;
It does not become angry;
It is not resentful.
Love always expects the best of others;
It is gladdened when they live up to these expectations,
Slow to lose faith when they do not.
It will bear anything, hope for anything, endure anything.
This kind of love will never fail
If there are teaching methods, they will change;
If there are curricula, they will be revised.
For our knowledge is imperfect and our teaching is imperfect,
And we are always looking for the better ways
Which an infinite God has placed ahead of us.
When Sahlee began to teach, Sahlee fumbled and failed;
Now Sahlee has put away some of her childish ways.
At present Sahlee is learning bit by bit;
But if sahlee keeps on seeking,
Sahlee shall at last understand
As all along Sahlee herself has been understood.
So faith, hope and love endure.
These are the great three
But the greater of them is

LOVE.

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1. Describe and explain what you felt when you read your name through the
lines of the poem.

This pandemic created chaos in school as there was a 360 degree turn around
in teaching. A lot of preparations have been done and I felt so tired before the
term even started. The term passed and done and it seemed that I was merely
dragging my feet until we reached the end of the term. We are about to start a
new one this week and reading this poem is so enlightening that motivated me
to keep on going on. It actually gave me a new strength to teach. It reopened
my eyes to reality that change is inevitable, and a teacher will take her role
under whatever circumstances there may be.

Reflection:

The emotions have not sunk in as I was substituting my name on the lines of the
poem, but when I was reading it with my name in different places, I begun to feel
the moving emotion and realized that love surpasses all. The teaching profession
is not a bed of roses, but with love, I could perform my part well in molding a
child mentally, spiritually and emotionally. I would seek more knowledge and
understanding from above, which are needed in order for me to grow as a
teacher, and love for my profession so I would be able to withstand the
challenges. Then spread love for love conquers all; a love for the learners in order
for them to develop love for themselves and learn independently and love for
others by sharing what they have. With this in my heart, I could surely conquer
everything.

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 Unit 2: The Teacher and the Society

Essay

This is how one describes professionalism:

“You have to perform at a consistently higher level than others. That’s the mark of a true
professional. Professionalism has nothing to do with getting paid for your services.”
From your own perspective, what is professionalism? Cite a concrete example of professionalism.

A teacher not only takes part in helping young people achieve success in the
classroom but also an epitome of right values and proper conduct. By doing so, it
simply demonstrates that she is taking her responsibilities seriously. Acting
unprofessionally is setting a bad example and may cause a teacher to lose the trust
and respect of students. It is empirical for a teacher to demonstrate professionalism
in all aspects to afford learners with the wholesome and finest education possible.

Good appearance commands respect as it conveys professionalism. A teacher must

dress appropriately according to gender. In the Philippine setting, teachers wear
clean and tidy uniforms and ID. Males on button-down shirt and appropriate pants
while female teachers wear proper length skirt and avoid revealing tops. Most schools
do not allow tattoos and piercings and brightly colored hair. A teacher must be neat
from head to foot. In addition, attitude matters as well. Foul language or acting
inappropriately even with colleagues must be avoided. Drinking alcohol and smoking
in the presence of the students is setting a bad example as it creates disrespect on
the part of the learners. Interaction, particularly with the students must be cautiously
done. There is a fine line between being a caring adult and being a friend. Interacting
with care while being professional means to create a welcoming and comfortable
learning environment and not being involved with petty jokes or conflicts and gossip
with the students. Favoritism and discrimination must be eliminated. There must also
be a productive interaction with colleagues because a professional teacher does not
engage in gossiping nor share confidential information unnecessarily. There must be
a collaboration among teachers about teaching strategies and discuss curriculum
issues, discuss ways to improve student performance and develop strategies to
resolve behavior problems. A teacher who focuses on professionalism is concerned
not only with her own overall performance but with the school community and how
to work together in creating the best learning environment. Our government is
requiring all professionals to have an ongoing career development and specifically
encourages teachers to participate and commit to professionalism as they stay
abreast of advances in technology and emerging trends in education. In addition,
teachers should read books and magazines and sites about curriculum and teaching
and learning strategies. Furthermore, if possible, a professional teacher should go an
extra mile in conducting research to continually improve her teaching methods.
Attending conferences and joining a professional organization to connect with other

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educators and be informed is also one of the possibilities a teacher should get
involved in.

Professionalism, particularly from a teacher’s point of view is not a complex process

but a matter that must not be taken for granted because the responsibility of molding
the next generation is a serious matter.

Reflection:

This activity reminded me that a professional teacher must always maintain a high
standard and utmost integrity. There is always a stigma that being a teacher, one
must act appropriately under whatever circumstances, must address any condition
with dignity and accept willfully any responsibility. It is just but proper that a
professional teacher should possess such qualities because the learners look up to
us and learn from us not only from what we say but also from what we do. The
society as a whole entrust the learners into our capable hands that we could impart
the best possible learning the students. In order for us to meet the expectation of
the learner and the society would prove that we are not capable.

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 The Teaching Profession
Reflection Worksheet
Direction: Fill-out the following table.
I learned/realized
that . . .
… this lesson presented a
clear understanding of a
professional teacher
having the professional
qualities and personal
qualities. Such qualities
are integrated to make an
effective teacher who is
needed to create change
on the lives of the
students not only on the
intellectual concept but
on the emotional and
psychological as well.
… the Models of Effective
Teaching taught different
approaches on how to
hone my skills and
knowledge in teaching.
… teaching is not just
about content but how
effective it is to make
students love learning
Unit 2
I believe that the
I want to know more
lessons are important
about . . .
to me because . . .
… grasping the true
essence of being a
teacher is very important
for me because it gives
me a sense of purpose
and direction in this
chosen carrier. It gave
me more motivation to
embrace it more.
none
… the Models of Effective
Teaching is a very
important topic as well
because they give me
insight on how to become
an effective one and how
a teacher is being
assessed based on
performance.
… as a future teacher, I
must perform based on
what is being expected of
me. I have the
responsibility not only for
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and apply it in their daily the students but also for
life. their parents, my
colleagues, my heads,
administrators,

… teaching is not just supervisors and local

about service or authorities. A

profession but it is about responsibility so

compassion that needs to enormous that if I find

be radiated to the myself ineffective, would

learners who are the also affect the community

future of the society. I am in.

… teaching is not just a

teacher and student
relationship but is an
integration of the school
community, but is further
extended outside the four
walls of the school into
the bigger society.

Reflection:

This activity made the responsibility of the teacher come to light. As I was doing
this reflection, I came to realize that teaching profession does not end in teaching
the students about competencies so they can have knowledge and skills. Teaching
goes far beyond the intellect with the values inculcation. Integration of both is the
true essence of teaching because teachers create change on individuals who will
lead the future society and be responsible for its development.

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 My Over-all Reflection

A few months into this course, I have learned and slowly grasp the essence that teaching is indeed the noblest
profession of all. Building a career in teaching requires various educational requirements, knowledge, skills and
attitude. All of these occupies years of preparation since it is vital to provide every student with a proper education.
Teaching is not just operating how a machine should work, but it allows one to deal with the most intricate wonders
of transforming the lives of individuals with different attitude and background by maintaining a right attitude and
approach to make them into matured individuals. On the practice of the teaching profession, a teacher who is able
to make independent and intelligent actions and decisions about their work is considered a professional. These
decisions and actions are grounded in a specialized set of knowledge and skills that were acquired from years of
training, experiences and collaboration with colleagues and stakeholders. A professional teacher holds the idea of
directing learners with character and dignity by taking time in preparing in order to produce scholarly process of
teaching and learning. Teachers are responsible for types of people the future society will have. Learners, especially
the younger ones will use the things they discovered to affect society of their own generation, as it is a fact that the
youths of today are the leaders of tomorrow. A knowledgeable and skilled teacher is competent to function
effectively wherever she is assigned. She has the conviction that on whatever setting she maybe, she is expected to
impart knowledge and hone skills of the learners, a role model for everyone, motivator, dedicated and passionate
about her profession, resilient to change and accept diversity of culture despite differences. She has to function in
her capacity to effect change to the learners.
One should carefully consider her interests, and goals before deciding on a career in education because teaching
is very difficult and demanding. A person who would opt to a teaching profession would have an ambivalent feeling
before deciding because it has been perceived by the past generations as a waste of time and talent especially for
those who thinks of himself to be talented and smart. The stigma that exist in the society that teaching is not a job
for the smart always push our top graduates to pursue career in law, medicine or business. In the response of
improving its standards, education implemented reforms leaving teachers with Herculean tasks and the society is
not aware of the fact that in order for us to have well equipped learners, we need to enlist intelligent people who
are equipped to take the task with enormous magnitude. On the other hand, teachers are always being blamed by
the society for the problems in education today. Our culture on education emphasized on accountability of the
teachers when students fail in a certain discipline. Unfortunately, this is still true in a more discreet manner
nowadays. On top of these, our society also employ the notion that taking up teaching as profession is only for those
who belong to the low income group because one can get a best education from state universities. It seems that
being a teacher is the only career choice in order for one to be a professional.
On the light side, teaching as a profession has slowly embraced reforms, directing our teachers to rethink about
their jobs. The government is trying to reshape the educational system by giving support through trainings and
increasing wages and benefits. In particular, our country from the very start of our history, education has been valued
and emphasized to our youth in order for us to sustain the government and the future. It is in this idea that
educational system keeps on evolving. Even with resistance, people follow what has been implemented. Any
condition that affects the educational system is immediately resolved by through the appropriate solution, therefore,
the government is on the lookout to make sure that teachers are equipped to face new challenges ahead of them.
Social and government support are very important in the teaching profession. A trust given by the family can give
autonomy to the teacher which enables her to function properly by freely employing the proper teaching process in
order to address the needs of the learners. A teacher and parent collaboration help students to aspire more learning
and prepare for life ahead. On the other hand, DepEd in particular has introduced programs that would improve
teaching standards, revising the professional standards and providing seminars and trainings. It has also made an
effort of raising teacher salary in order to attract the brightest student to pursue a profession in the education.
Government and private sectors alike provide scholarships in teaching education program in order to upgrade the
teachers’ quality in the country.
As a future professional teacher, I am fully aware that teaching is not just about qualifications or wages. It is about
inspiring and motivating learners to realize and exceed their potentials. People who are considered the greatest
teachers devoted their life in inspiring and empowering learners to achieve the greatest and be a human being.
Making an effort of reaching out to poor communities by giving them education for free will encourage the people
to learn and eventually change how they perceive about teaching as a profession. Teaching profession is very
rewarding not only because of the salary but because of the feeling of self-fulfillment of contributing in the
development of the society by touching and changing the life of a learner.
I am but another step closer in achieving my goal in becoming a professional teacher. I have learned various ways
on how to become one. To summarize them, I must equip myself with extensive knowledge, effective skills in order
to efficiently transfer understanding into the minds of the learners and the right attitude in order to be a role model,
capable of leading learners to be upright, just and compassionate. And the most important of it all is entrusting into
the hands of the Divine power because everything will come into order without problems, leading me in a correct
path to become a professional teacher.

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