FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Who would be the best resource for a teacher struggling with using base-ten blocks for instruction?

1. A peer teacher

2. A professional development workshop

3. An educational website

4. A textbook on math instruction

The correct answer is: A peer teacher

Choosing a peer teacher as a resource for a teacher struggling with using base-ten blocks for instruction is beneficial for several reasons. Peer teachers, often referred to as colleagues, can provide personalized support and practical insights based on their own experiences in the classroom. They are likely familiar with the specific curriculum and standards the teacher is working with, which makes their advice particularly relevant and applicable. Peer teachers can demonstrate how they effectively use base-ten blocks, share successful strategies, and even observe or co-teach a lesson to provide targeted feedback. This kind of collaborative support fosters a learning community within a school and allows for immediate, hands-on assistance. Additionally, a peer can offer emotional support and encouragement, which is especially valuable for teachers facing challenges. While professional development workshops, educational websites, and textbooks can provide valuable information and techniques, they may lack the personalized approach and the immediacy of help that a peer can provide. Workshops and articles may present theories or general strategies without considering the specific context of an individual classroom, and textbooks might not reflect the latest practices or allow for real-time interaction. Hence, the most effective support for practical classroom challenges, such as using base-ten blocks, often comes from collaborative relationships with fellow educators.