FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What does teacher expectations refer to in the classroom?

1. The average performance of the class

2. The teacher's belief about student success likelihood

3. The curriculum standards for the year

4. The materials chosen for lessons

The correct answer is: The teacher's belief about student success likelihood

Teacher expectations refer to the beliefs that educators hold regarding the potential success and abilities of their students. When a teacher has high expectations for their students, it often translates into increased motivation, performance, and engagement among those students. The belief that students are capable of achieving success can affect how teachers interact with them, how they plan their lessons, and the support they provide, ultimately influencing student outcomes. In educational research, it has been shown that there is a strong correlation between teacher expectations and student achievement. When teachers communicate their belief in the ability of their students to succeed, it tends to foster a more positive learning environment where students feel empowered to reach their full potential. This concept is particularly significant as it highlights the impact of teacher attitudes on student performance and helps underscore the importance of fostering a mindset that encourages all students to strive for excellence.