The Role of the Teacher:  The teacher's role in the classroom is that of a guide.  A teacher must recognize that student's own base knowledge and experiene is the knowledge base from which he/she will build all other knowledge.  I say "build" because knowledge is something constructed of learning and meaningful experience.  It is not enough to tell a student that water boils at 100 degrees.  To have them experience that with a thermometer, beaker,  and bunsen burner would be far more meaningful.  In my classroom, I will offer students ample opporutnity to explore the materials we work with, both literature and writing, through tying that in with their own meaningful experiences.  The teacher is not the bearer of all knowledge, but the facilitator of student learning.  Behavior Management:         My behavioral philosophy is authoriative.  Students need to have ownership and responsibility for their own behavior.  I will work together with my class to set up community values in addition to my own basic classroom rules.  I will expect rules to be followed, and consequences will result for rule infractions.  Unlike the authoritatian classroom,  however, my class is not governed by strict rules and consequences in a teacher-directed environment.  Student participation is encouraged and importants.  Students should feel comfortable interrupting lecture with relative questions and views.  Students will often direct discussion, and group work will be incorporated often. The Reflective Teacher:         Lastly, I cannot stress enough the importance of reflecting frequently and carefully on one's own teaching. Each student and classroom is different and teachers need to decide whether their methods are effective for each situation, and  how their teaching style can be improved to enhance student learning.