my teaching portfolio
Inclusion in the Classroom
The philosophy behind inclusive education is the importance of belonging.
The premise that surrounds this type of learning goes far beyond the classroom, it extends to the community and the student's environment. I recognize that all students learn differently. My aim is to support and assess the learner's needs , while ensuring that a nurturing and safe environment is created through the process.
What I do to create an inclusive environment:
- I get to know my students. What their strengths and weaknesses are and what they are capable of and what they are not.
It is important for me as a teacher to encourage students by introducing them to a growth mindset that focuses on the positives; I can, rather than I can't.
- I feel that it is important to foster a relationship with the resource teacher and the support from home. Communication is key.
- I think it is important to take the time to adapt and modify on a regular basis when teaching or creating lesson plans.
- I create a shared learning community where students feel safe to contribute to the class and get extra help when needed. Therefore, there are no judgements in relation to students' differences.
- In order for students to achieve success in their learning, I assess formatively on a regular basis to see if there is an improvement or lackthereof.
Differentiation:
As an educator, I recognize that all student's learn differently.
Following Howard Gardner's research on Multiple Intelligences, I ask myself the following when planning a lesson:
- Logical/ Mathematical: Am I making sure that the lesson has a sequence and flows appropriately?
- Visual/Spatial: Would adding illustrations, videos, or diagrams make the lesson more engaging for learners?
- Body/Kinesthetic: How can I create a lesson that is hands-on where students are able to discover through movement?
- Musical/Rhythmic: Can I incorporate music and/or dance in relation to what I am teaching?
- Interpersonal: Can students work together collaboratively to further their understanding of a certain concept?
- Naturalistic: Can the lesson be incorporated with the natural world?
- Existential: How can I relate the lesson to every day life?
Journal Entry- Observations of a student
During my Fe3, I got the opportunity to work with a student who has a learning disability. Below is a journal entry from one of our resource sessions. I worked on developing his number recognition by using manipulatives.
Using Checklists in the Classroom:
Checklists are a great tool for students to use. The grade 2 class that I was working with were still developing their writing skills. This checklist allowed them to follow the steps to edit their work.
IEP
An IEP is a document that is tailored to the specific needs of a learner. In order for a student with an IEP to succeed, I believe that it is important to monitor and follow through with the set out goals that is intended for the short and long term.
During this semester, I created a working IEP that focuses on a particular student who was struggling with reading and writing. I found that this document allowed me to easily track and focus on specific strategies to further help the student flourish in the classroom.
To view the document, click here.