Principle #1- The teacher understands the central concepts, tools of inquiry, and structures of the discipline(s) he or she teaches and can create learning experiences that make these aspects of subject matter meaningful for students.

The teacher applies this in the lesson plans when he or she has a vast understanding of the content area being taught. He or she always knows how the students may be confused by the information as it is presented.

Principle #2- The teacher understands how children learn and develop, and can provide learning opportunities that support their intellectual, social and personal development. 

The teacher provides the students with activities that are closer to their level- intellectually, socially, and personally. The teacher continues to prepare lessons that will foster strengths and build weakness. The teacher has small and large group discussions rather than lots of writing.

Principle #3- The teacher understands how students differ in their approaches to learning and creates instructional opportunities that are adapted to diverse learners.

The teacher provides diversity activities in her lesson plans for students who are culturally diverse and educationally diverse. The reteach activities may also be helpful to these students.

Principle #4- The teacher understands and uses a variety of instructional strategies to encourage students' development of critical thinking, problem solving, and performance skills. 

The teacher uses the principles to use various instructional strategies to encourage higher thinking among his or her students.

Principle #5- The teacher uses an understanding of individual and group motivation and behavior to create a learning environment that encourages positive social interaction, active engagement in learning, and self-motivation.

            The teacher uses an understanding of individual and group motivation to create a positive learning environment.

Principle #6- The teacher uses knowledge of effective verbal, nonverbal, and media communication techniques to foster active inquiry, collaboration, and supportive interaction in the classroom.

            The teacher possesses understanding of verbal, nonverbal, and media communication to foster inquiry, collaboration and supportive instruction in the classroom.

Principle #7- The teacher plans instruction based upon knowledge of subject matter, students, the community, and curriculum goals.

            The teacher is able to plan and manage classroom instruction effectively and accurately. The teacher possesses knowledge of the students, context, and environmental factors.

Principle #8- The teacher understands and uses formal and informal assessment strategies to evaluate and ensure the continuous intellectual, social and physical development of the learner.

            The teacher uses correct assessment tools to evaluate students in order to ensure continuous development among learners. The teacher understands that the assessment tools must be valid and reliable. The assessments should also not be biased. The teacher uses the results of her assessments to identify what skills should be retaught in a different manner.    

Principle #9- The teacher is a reflective practitioner who continually evaluates the effects of his/her choices and actions on others (students, parents, and other professionals in the learning community) and who actively seeks out opportunities to grow professionally.

            The teacher is a reflective educating professional that evaluates how his or her decisions affect the lives of others. The teacher is willing to help others and values critical thinking. He or she is continuously looking for ways to refine teaching skills. 

Principle #10- The teacher fosters relationships with school colleagues, parents, and agencies in the larger community to support students' learning and well-being.

            The teacher acknowledges that the school is part of a larger community or environment. The teacher knows and understands the importance of a child’s experiences. The teacher serves as an advocate for the students and is concerned about their well-being.