March 17, 2014

To whom it may concern, This letter is to recommend Aisha Hassan as a secondary science teacher, with particular emphasis in chemistry. As director of the Salt Lake Center for Science Education (SLCSE) I have observed Ms. Hassan on several occasions and gained further insight through her cooperating teacher. Aisha has made the most of her time here and is well on her way to becoming an amazing science educator. She has worked very closely with her mentor teacher and is leaving SLCSE well prepared to facilitate learning in a classroom of her own. Aishas hands-on, minds-on approach is what we should hope for in all science classes. Her ability to connect chemistry to the real world makes the learning relevant and meaningful to her students. She is a devoted educator and is willing to put in as much time as it takes to prepare quality lessons for her students. She has worked with a diverse student population and embraces the challenge of effective classroom differentiation. Aisha is adaptable and flexible in her approach to educating children. She constantly assesses her students and adapts her teaching to assure that they are accessing learning opportunities. In her planning Aisha consistently thinks about what the students will be doing within a lesson. Too often new teachers are focused only on what they will be doing. Her interactive approach clearly appeals to students. Aisha has the drive, attitude and personality that will help her to an effective teacher and a wonderful colleague. She is clearly in touch with teaching methods, state and national standards, multicultural issues, and literacy. Her combined content and pedagogical knowledge make her a great candidate for any teaching position. As a former chemistry myself I recommend her with the certainty that she will be a great asset to colleagues and students.

Sincerely,

Larry Madden Director Salt Lake Center for Science Education