They care deeply about their subjects and invite students to share the journey of learning. Students are intrinsically motivated due to the way teachers organize and present the content, the roles they encourage students to assume, and the student initiative they expect. The work is real and significant and becomes important to students as well as to teachers. This indicator includes verbal and nonverbal teacher behaviors that stimulate students' attention, interaction, and participation. Teacher does not exhibit enthusiasm about the topic being taught.
Teacher shows limited enthusiasm for the topic being taught.
Teacher usually conveys enthusiasm for this topic being taught. Teacher consistently shows enthusiasm for teaching and learning in a variety of ways. Uses knowledge of students' prior understandings and experiences to make instruction relevant and meaningful. For any topic of study, students have prior knowledge that provides a foundation for new learning. Teachers assess and value this knowledge, select and use instructional materials that are relevant to students' cultural experiences, and facilitate students' sharing through a variety of communication modes.