Question

Please can you add some extra background information on the context of each sub headings and elaborate further on the conclusion part in this essay in accordance to the characters I give ? ta.

Model Teacher & the Goals to be a Professional Teacher: Personal Reflection
Introduction
A model teacher is a teacher who displays qualities that students admire and seek to emulate through both academic and personal integrity. According to Stronge (2018), effective teachers possess deep content knowledge, set high expectations, and adapt their teaching strategies to meet diverse student needs. In addition to academic skills, model teachers with their students also exhibit strong interpersonal abilities, building trust and respect with their students (Hattie, 2009). Whereas, in the journey of becoming an effective educator, the influence of a model teacher can be transformative. For me, that model is Mr. Gerry Sailas, my year 11 physics teacher. Mr. Sailas’ profound dedication to his students and his exceptional teaching methods have inspired my aspiration to be a teacher like him one day. He was loved by many students not only in the way he professionally presents himself but also of his charismatic personality that is admired by students as well his colleague. This reflection will explore Mr. Sailas’ representation of the three basic qualities of a professional teacher: teaching skills, knowledge and methods; subject content knowledge; and developing professional attitudes as outlined by the Teacher Service Commission (TSC). Moreover, I will reflect on the importance of being a good role model, my motivations for choosing a teaching career, and my ultimate goals as an educator.

Body/Content
My Model Teacher
Mr. Sailas stands out in my memory not only for his academic excellence and professionalism but for his unique ability to connect with students. He uses and simplify teaching strategies—group discussions and practical demonstration—that engaged every student's learning style. His methods of presentation had always been versatile and that illustrates one of the three basic qualities of a professional teacher. According to the American Educational Research Association (2018), effective teaching involves employing diverse instructional methods to cater to students' learning needs, a principle that Mr. Sailas mastered.

Teaching Skills, Knowledge, and Methods
Mr. Sailas’ teaching skills were always satisfying for he had a natural ability to simplify complex physics theories into ideas that are easy for any particular student to understand. He structured approach in justifying theories into daily or physical world was particularly noteworthy; he often initiated his lessons with thought-provoking questions that encouraged practical demonstration that demands real equipment to practice with. For example, during our unit on series circuits, he brings four AA batteries, two torch light bulbs, some connecting wires and a switch. He then invited two volunteers, a boy and a girl and they construct the circuit and eventually it turned ON (lit) while the rest of the class concentratedly watching every step of the construction. This strategy aligns with the findings of Hattie (2012), which emphasize the impact of inquiry-based learning on student engagement.

His knowledge was both extensive and practical. He was not only well-versed in curriculum standards but also kept abreast of contemporary educational research, which he seamlessly wove into his lessons. His ability to contextualize scientific theories to that of physical or daily life through demonstration making his commitment and contribution to a well - organized education. In a world where students face myriad challenges, such relevance is critical in fostering a love for learning and encouraging civic responsibility (Nussbaum, 2010).

Subject Content Knowledge
The depth of Mr. Salais’ subject content knowledge resonated through his teachings. His familiarity with the modern physics theories and discoveries was matched only by his enthusiasm for sharing it. More importantly, he ensured that we understood various experiments—showcasing his dedication to a critical approach to those complicated theoretical notes that are in the text books. According to Shulman (1986), subject content knowledge is essential for effective teaching, and Mr. Sailas usually delivers in simple terms, fostering a rich learning environment where students absorb the knowledge easily and are able to thrive intellectually.

Professional Attitudes and Code of Ethics
A professional teacher's attitudes are equally as crucial as their knowledge and skills. They must be very careful about professionalism and must make sure to take extra precautions because their practices and conducts will determine the child’s future life. Mr. Sailas adhered to the TSC's code of ethics, which emphasizes integrity, fairness, and respect. He treated all students with kindness and he is conscious of his conduct in appearance, behaviour, attitude and practice where every voice in the classroom mattered. One of the best part of him that always pleases me was his approach to discipline which he make sure it is based on understanding rather than punishment, reflecting a compassionate and ethical philosophy of teaching. In his classroom, mistakes were viewed as opportunities for growth rather than failures. This perspective is vital in creating a supportive learning environment, as noted in the work of Dweck (2007).

Importance of Being a Good Role Model
The impact of a teacher extends beyond academic achievements. As stated in Hayes (1999), a good role model to students, cares about the children, creates good working relationship, acknowledge students’ efforts, provides equal opportunities to all and avoids discrimination on any basis. Unconditionally, Mr. Sailas served as a role model in numerous aspects. His unwavering dedication inspired a sense of responsibility among his students. He works tirelessly in maintaining high moral standards, demonstrating resilience in the face of challenges, and encouraging us to follow our passion. He shaped not just scholars but also moral individuals. According to Berenson (2009), teachers who embody their values influence their students profoundly, shaping their behaviors and character.

Reasons to Become a Teacher
The decision I make back in that days to pursue a career in education stems from my experiences in Mr. Sailas classroom. Witnessing his passion and energy he puts in each time he walks into the classroom fueled my desire, as I can be like him one day and impart knowledge and make a positive impact on future generations. The intrinsic rewards of teaching, such as nurturing curiosity and inspiring potential, appeal to me more than any material gain. I am motivated by the belief that education can empower young minds, that it has the potential to break down barriers, and that each student deserves a chance to succeed.

Ultimate Goals of Being a Teacher
My ultimate goal to be a teacher is not solely to teach core subjects but to cultivate independent thinkers who can engage critically with the world around them. In comparison to the education standard in most under-develop parts of our country (PNG), it is a hell of a challenged and heart-felt feeling to give something back to our struggling nation. I aspire to create a classroom environment similar to the one that is modelled by Mr. Sailas—one that is inclusive, inspiring, and thought-provoking. Additionally, I aim to instill a love for lifelong learning so that students appreciate education beyond the confines of school. According to the UNESCO (2015), education should be aimed at developing skills and attitudes that help individuals contribute positively to society.

Summary
In reflecting on the qualities of my model teacher, Mr. Sailas, I have learned invaluable lessons about the importance of becoming a teacher. To be precise, he is one of those teachers that mastered the three (3) qualities of a professional teacher; the teaching skills, content knowledge, and professional attitudes. His influence has significantly shaped my aspirations, motivating me to become an educator who embodies the same dedication and passion for students. As I embark on my teaching journey, I carry with me the belief that I can be a positive role model, inspire curiosity, and contribute to the holistic development of my future students.

Answers

GPT-4o mini
### Model Teacher & the Goals to be a Professional Teacher: Personal Reflection

#### Introduction
A model teacher represents the ideal combination of academic proficiency and personal integrity, serving as a blueprint for students aspiring to the same professional standards. Stronge (2018) posits that effective teachers show mastery of their subject content, set high expectations, and employ diverse teaching strategies tailored to meet the varied needs of their students. Beyond their academic prowess, model teachers cultivate strong interpersonal skills, forming trust and respect that foster a supportive learning environment (Hattie, 2009). My own journey toward becoming a teacher has been indelibly shaped by Mr. Gerry Sailas, my year 11 physics teacher. His profound commitment to student success, combined with his engaging teaching methods, has sparked my aspiration to replicate his impact in my own classroom. Known for his professionalism and charismatic personality, Mr. Sailas epitomizes the qualities that make an unforgettable educator. This reflection aims to delve into Mr. Sailas’ embodiment of the three fundamental qualities of a professional teacher—teaching skills, knowledge and methods; subject content knowledge; and the cultivation of professional attitudes, as outlined by the Teacher Service Commission (TSC). In addition, I will reflect on the significance of serving as a good role model, my motivations for pursuing a teaching career, and my overarching goals as an educator.

#### My Model Teacher
Mr. Sailas remains vivid in my memory, not only for his academic prowess but also for his exceptional ability to forge connections with students. He utilized a variety of teaching strategies—such as group discussions and practical demonstrations—that catered to every student's unique learning style. His versatile methods exemplify the essential qualities of a professional teacher, aligning well with the principles set forth by the American Educational Research Association (2018) that emphasize the need for diverse instructional methodologies. Mr. Sailas exemplified the idea that learning should never be a one-size-fits-all approach, illuminating the transformative potential of tailored pedagogy.

#### Teaching Skills, Knowledge, and Methods
The teaching skills of Mr. Sailas were nothing short of inspiring. His natural talent for distilling complex physics theories into easily comprehensible ideas empowered each student in the classroom. He skillfully structured lessons that initiated critical thinking through thought-provoking questions, thus encouraging practical demonstrations that required active student participation. For instance, during our unit on series circuits, Mr. Sailas would bring in equipment—batteries, bulbs, wires, and switches—and invite volunteers to construct circuits themselves, allowing us to witness the principles of physics in action. This hands-on approach aligns with Hattie’s (2012) advocacy for inquiry-based learning, proving its ability to engage students and deepen understanding.

Moreover, Mr. Sailas possessed extensive subject knowledge, always remaining abreast of contemporary developments in physics and seamlessly integrating them into our lessons. This ability to contextualize theoretical concepts within our everyday experiences bolstered our understanding and sparked curiosity. Especially in a world where students often face obstacles, contextual education becomes a powerful catalyst for encouraging a love for learning and cultivating civic responsibility, as highlighted by Nussbaum (2010).

#### Subject Content Knowledge
Mr. Sailas’ depth of content knowledge was reflected in his passion for modern physics theories and discoveries, which resonated through his captivating teaching. His familiarity with scientific concepts was only enhanced by his eagerness to share this knowledge with us in a digestible manner. He ensured that we engaged deeply with various experiments, and showcased a commitment to pedagogical practices that fostered a rich learning environment. Shulman (1986) highlights that subject content knowledge is fundamental for effective teaching; Mr. Sailas embodied this tenet by transforming complex theories into relatable lessons that made learning both enjoyable and intellectually stimulating.

#### Professional Attitudes and Code of Ethics
Professional attitudes and ethics are key components of effective teaching. Teachers must exercise diligence and integrity, as their actions greatly influence their students' futures. Mr. Sailas upheld the TSC's code of ethics, which emphasizes fairness, respect, and integrity. Always treating students with kindness, he maintained a classroom where every voice mattered. Notably, his approach to discipline prioritized understanding over punishment, revealing an ethically aware teaching philosophy. In Mr. Sailas' classroom, mistakes were embraced as opportunities for growth—a vital perspective that promotes a supportive learning environment, as noted by Dweck (2007).

#### Importance of Being a Good Role Model
The influence of a teacher transcends academic learning. As underscored by Hayes (1999), effective role models genuinely care for their students, cultivate robust relationships, acknowledge effort, ensure equity, and foster inclusivity. Mr. Sailas exemplified these qualities, serving as a beacon of responsibility and resilience. He consistently modeled high moral standards, inspiring his students to pursue their passions while nurturing ethical individuals. Teachers who embody such values profoundly impact their students’ behavior and character, reinforcing Berenson's (2009) assertion of the teacher's role as a moral guide.

#### Reasons to Become a Teacher
My aspiration to become an educator stems from the transformative experiences I had in Mr. Sailas' classroom. Observing his passion and enthusiasm ignited my desire to create a similar environment where students feel valued and inspired. The intrinsic rewards of teaching, such as nurturing curiosity and empowering young minds, outweigh any monetary considerations for me. I am driven by a conviction that education is a powerful tool for breaking down barriers, and that each student deserves the opportunity for success.

#### Ultimate Goals of Being a Teacher
My ultimate goal in pursuing a career in education goes beyond merely teaching academic subjects. I aim to cultivate independent thinkers who critically engage with their world. In contrast to the education standards prevalent in many regions of Papua New Guinea (PNG), where challenges abound, I feel a deep responsibility to give back to our struggling nation. I aspire to create a classroom environment akin to Mr. Sailas’—one that is inclusive, inspiring, and thought-provoking. Additionally, I seek to instill a passion for lifelong learning, so my students will value education beyond the walls of school. As UNESCO (2015) suggests, education should foster skills and attitudes that empower individuals to contribute positively to society.

#### Conclusion
In reflecting upon the profound influence of my model teacher, Mr. Sailas, I have gained invaluable insights into the multifaceted nature of effective teaching. He exemplified the three core qualities outlined in the TSC framework—comprehensive teaching skills, deep subject knowledge, and unwavering professional attitudes. His impactful methods and ethical practices have significantly shaped my vision of becoming an educator who embodies dedication and passion in nurturing students. As I embark on my journey in teaching, I carry with me the aspiration to serve as a positive role model, fostering curiosity, and contributing to the holistic development of my future students. Ultimately, I hope to inspire the next generation, ensuring they leave my classroom not only well-versed in their subjects but also equipped with the moral compass needed to navigate the complexities of life. By modeling the qualities I admired in Mr. Sailas, I envision a future where my students are empowered, engaged, and lifelong learners, ready to make their mark on the world.