Dawnmarie Ezzo Instructor Department of Teacher Education 313 Erickson Hall Michigan State University East Lansing, MI 48824

517.432.3373 dezzo@msu.edu

To whom it may concern: It is my distinct pleasure to recommend to you Carolyn Hart for the Fulbright-Hays scholarship. As Carolyns science and literacy methods instructor, I have found her to be one of the most reflective, caring, and insightful young teachers with whom I have had the privilege to work. Carolyn has demonstrated an orientation to continually learn and grow in her work as a teacher. During her year-long senior-level placement, Carolyn worked to develop lessons that used small-

group and whole-group collaborations among students. She showed exceptional skill in thinking through the possible paths of thought that students might take, the questions she might ask of students to move their science thinking forward, and the structures she would use to orchestrate a productive discussion that honored student thinking. She consistently adapted existing curriculum materials and created new ones to suit her learning goals and the particular needs of her students. Carolyn demonstrated qualities of leadership and dedication that were above and beyond the expectations of teacher candidates. She continually brought previous life experiences and knowledge into her teaching, and shared them with other teacher colleagues, enriching both her own and her colleagues teaching. She is an excellent candidate for studying overseas, and would make exceptional use of the opportunities given to her, both during her overseas studies and in the years that follow. Carolyns skill in using technology, implementing science and literacy instruction, anticipating student thinking, facilitating small- and whole-group discussions, working to support and lead colleagues in new ideas and reflecting on her practice are similar to beginning teachers with several years of experience. I give Carolyn Hart my fullest possible recommendation - she is already an exceptional teacher and will make outstanding use of the opportunities inherent in studying overseas. Please dont hesitate to contact me with any questions about her work in the teacher preparation program or in the classroom.

Regards,

Instructor, Department of Teacher Education Michigan State University