Teaching Metaphor

When I was thinking about my "teaching metaphor" it was initially difficult to choose just one that encompassed several of my views regarding teaching, as well as students and the way they learn. Some of the metaphors listed on the sheet fit relatively well, and I could think of numerous others that would address some aspect appropriately, for example, I could use a firefighter, or someone who pulls people (students) "out of the rubble" and into the place they need to be. However, I finally decided that my most applicable metaphor is that of a gardener. In a single garden there are a number of different flowers, plants, or crops. Although they are all placed together in one area (an outside garder or greenhouse), each individial species looks somewhat different and unique. Also, the individual plants have varying needs, some require lots of water and sunlight, while others require vary little water and can grow when taken away from the sun. It is important that the gardener knows the characteristics and needs of each plant so ensure that they all have what is needed to grow.
The same is true in an elementary school classroom. In a given classroom there are a number of students, and most likely they all look, talk and act differently, no two students are alike. It is important to understand the characteristics of students, including their cultures, customs, backgrounds, and learning styles. Also, as with plants, students have varying needs. Some may need more individualized attention, and others may need extra time spent in a specific subject. As teachers, it is important that we realize and tend to the characteristics of our students, so that they have what they need to grow into higher level thinkers and learners.