FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

A beginning teacher notices that students are having difficulty mastering the properties of light on a science test. What is the best next step for the teacher to take?

1. Assign additional homework

2. Seek input from a peer teacher

3. Implement a new curriculum

4. Provide extra credit opportunities

The correct answer is: Seek input from a peer teacher

Seeking input from a peer teacher is an effective next step for a beginning teacher who notices students struggling with a specific content area, such as the properties of light. Collaborating with a more experienced colleague can provide the teacher with valuable insights into effective teaching strategies, resources, and techniques tailored to enhance student understanding. Engaging in discussion allows for the sharing of successful methods that have worked in similar situations, the opportunity to observe different instructional approaches, and potentially receiving materials or activities that can be immediately implemented in the classroom. This collaborative effort helps to create a supportive teaching environment where novice teachers can grow and develop their practice based on shared experiences and proven strategies. While assigning additional homework, implementing a new curriculum, or providing extra credit can have some merit in addressing student learning issues, they may not directly address the need for tailored instructional strategies or immediate support. These options may also risk overwhelming students or diverting focus from understanding core concepts rather than enhancing their grasp of the material.