Passionate Pirate Worksheet

Assignment 2

Content Passion

• Scientific method– I love starting my introductory science classes with an overview of the scientific

method and critical thinking. I like having them think about what real science is and how it’s different from pseudoscience. I sometimes have them follow up the discussion with an evaluation of a claim on it’s scientific basis (like a weight-loss ad)

• Soil contamination and cleanup– My scientific background is in the study of chromium movement through soil

so I enjoy talking about this topic in my Soils class. Students are fascinated and horrified to learn about our nation’s Superfund sites.

• Structure and function of the heart– As you can tell from this list, I teach a wide variety of courses. Human Biology is

outside of my area of expertise, but I fell in love with the structure and function of the heart and love teaching this topic.

Within your subject matter, what are you passionate about teaching? In other words, of all the topics and standards you teach as part of your curriculum, which are the ones you most enjoy?

Professional Passion

• My teaching philosophy is to inspire thought and create independent learners. That’s why I test my college students on basic definitions BEFORE a lecture or activity over a topic. I want them to learn some information on their own. This frees up my in-class time to focus on more in-depth topics and helps them learn to teach themselves.

Within your profession, but not specific to your subject matter, what are you passionate about? What is it about being an educator that drives you? What ignites a fire inside of you?

Personal Passion

• Family– Almost all my free time is devoted to spending time with my family. I’m

busy chasing after my toddler!

• Writing– I’ve written several short stories and had a few published in minor

publications. I’ve also written a young adult novel and am in the process of self-publishing

• Home improvement– My husband and I are passionate about home improvement. We’ve

dramatically remodeled every home we’ve lived in and even successfully “flipped” a house. Currently, we are slowly (remember the toddler? ) remodeling our 1900s farmhouse.

Completely outside of your profession, what are you passionate about?