The edTPA (Educator Performance Assessment) is a rigorous process, and selecting the right quotations to support your claims is crucial. This isn't just about finding quotes; it's about strategically showcasing your deep understanding of pedagogical theory and practice. This guide will help you select and effectively use quotations to bolster your edTPA submissions, ensuring you demonstrate your expertise and earn a high score.
What Makes a Strong edTPA Quotation?
A strong quotation for your edTPA isn't just any quote from a prominent educator. It must be:
- Relevant: Directly connected to your specific teaching practices and the analysis you present. It shouldn't be shoehorned in; it should organically support your arguments.
- Precise: Clearly articulates a specific pedagogical concept or principle relevant to your lesson. Vague quotes are unhelpful.
- Well-integrated: Seamlessly woven into your narrative, not just dropped in as an afterthought. You need to explain how the quote applies to your teaching.
- Credible: Sourced from reputable sources such as renowned educational theorists, researchers, or established educational publications.
- Contextualized: You must provide context for the quote, explaining who said it, when, and in what context. This adds credibility and depth.
Choosing the Right Quotations: Finding Your Focus
Before you start searching for quotes, clearly define your central arguments and the pedagogical concepts you'll highlight in your edTPA. Are you focusing on differentiated instruction? Constructivist learning? Assessment for learning? Identifying your focus will guide your search for relevant quotations.
Common Pedagogical Theories & Relevant Authors
Several prominent theories and authors frequently appear in strong edTPA submissions. Familiarizing yourself with these will equip you to find compelling supporting evidence:
- John Dewey: Known for his emphasis on experiential learning and the role of reflection in education.
- Lev Vygotsky: His sociocultural theory highlights the importance of social interaction and scaffolding in learning.
- Jean Piaget: His stages of cognitive development provide a framework for understanding how children learn at different ages.
- Howard Gardner: His theory of multiple intelligences emphasizes the diversity of human intelligence and the need for differentiated instruction.
- Jerome Bruner: His work on discovery learning and scaffolding is relevant to many teaching approaches.
How to Effectively Use Quotations in Your edTPA
- Introduce the quote: Briefly introduce the author and the context of the quote before presenting it.
- Present the quote: Use quotation marks and cite the source correctly (using a consistent citation style).
- Analyze the quote: Explain how the quote relates to your teaching practices and supports your claims. Don't just state the quote; analyze its significance in relation to your work.
- Connect the quote to your evidence: Show how the quote connects to specific examples from your teaching, such as student work, classroom observations, or assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
H2: What if I can't find a perfect quote?
Don't panic! Paraphrasing key concepts from reputable sources is also acceptable, provided you properly cite your source. The goal is to demonstrate your understanding of pedagogical principles, not just your ability to find the perfect quote.
H2: How many quotations should I use?
The number of quotations depends on the length and scope of your edTPA sections. Focus on quality over quantity. A few well-chosen, well-analyzed quotations are far more effective than many poorly integrated ones.
H2: Where can I find reliable sources for edTPA quotations?
Educational journals, textbooks on pedagogical theory, and scholarly articles are excellent sources. Review relevant chapters in your education coursework textbooks.
H2: What if I'm unsure if a quote is appropriate?
If you're unsure, it's always better to err on the side of caution. Consult with your mentor or supervisor for guidance.
By thoughtfully selecting and integrating relevant quotations, you can significantly strengthen your edTPA submission. Remember, the goal is to showcase your understanding of pedagogical theory and its practical application in your classroom. Focus on demonstrating your expertise, and let the quotes support your narrative, rather than dictating it.
