Professional Documents
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Rebekah Chesney Tled 478 Practicum Portfolio
Rebekah Chesney Tled 478 Practicum Portfolio
November 20, 2023, and November 27th through December 1, 2023 (8 am -300 pm excluding
School
A Title 1 Accredited school that serves 134 students. Led by Principal Mrs. Ami Scott, the
paraprofessionals.
Class
Total number of paraprofessionals: 4th grade has 2 paraprofessionals 5th grade has none.
Total number of students: 4th grade has 15, 5th grade has 21
Cultural/ ethnic Diversity of students: 4th grade 1 Hispanic student, 5th grade 0
Academic Diversity:
4th grade: 9 are performing below grade level, 4 are at grade level and 2 are above grade level
5th grade: 8 are performing below grade level, 10 are at grade level and 3 are above grade level.
Number of students repeating the current grade or course: 4th grade 0, 5th grade 0
During my practicum at Speedwell Elementary led by Principal Mrs. Ami Scott, the
with Mrs. Wendy Horton, who skillfully navigates between teaching 4th-grade Math and
Virginia Studies, as well as 5th-grade Math and U.S. History, and this experience has been truly
enlightening.
In the 4th-grade classroom under Mrs. Horton's guidance, there's a diverse mix of genders
and glimpses of ethnic diversity. Among the 15 students, there are 10 boys and 5 girls, with one
Hispanic student and the remaining students being White. Of these students, 2 perform above
grade level, 4 are at grade level, and 9 are performing below grade level. Additionally, 7 students
are identified as eligible for special education services, comprising various needs such as
learning disabilities, autism, other health impairments, and of the 7, 2 also receive occupational
Similarly, in the 5th-grade class, the gender diversity is notable, with 13 boys and 8 girls,
all belonging to the White ethnicity. Among these students, 3 perform above grade level, 10 are
at grade level, and 8 are performing below grade level. Additionally, 2 students are identified as
eligible for special education services, encompassing needs like learning disabilities and other
health impairments, while one student is currently in the special education process.
instances such as occasional calling out or minor behavioral issues stemming from students'
redirection and may influence instructional planning. To manage them, Mrs. Horton incorporates
engaging activities and leverages the well-equipped classroom for hands-on learning
Recognizing the impact of disruptive behavior on the learning environment, I have come
to realize the necessity of deepening my understanding and skills in managing such behaviors. I
aim to explore and learn more about the causes and triggers behind disruptive behavior to
proactively develop strategies and interventions—an effort crucial in creating a more supportive
framework for students exhibiting these behaviors and fostering a more inclusive and conducive
learning environment.
Instruction, while primarily teacher-led, is crafted to meet diverse student needs through a
independent learning. These approaches allow her to adapt teaching methods to accommodate
various learning styles and abilities. Such tailored instruction aligns with Mrs. Horton's skill in
Classroom Setting
Class Schedule:
Starting at 8:15 am, the 4th grade students arrive, unpack, and take a bathroom break. Following
these initial routines, we proceed to attendance, lunch count, and morning math work.
Subsequently, we engage in 'Tiger TV,' the pre-recorded morning meeting by the principal,
Math at 8:30 am (Small groups with the 2 SPED teachers taking a group each at 9:00 am till 9:30
am).
11:45 am to 12:10 pm is Recess for both 4th and 5th grade (at this point students take their
materials to the hallway and place them along the wall between Mrs. Hortons class and the other
|12:45 pm to 2:15 pm is dedicated to Math and U.S. History there is no set timeline for each.
(Small groups with the 2 SPED teachers taking a group each at 1:45 pm till 2:15 pm).
Gym – Mondays, Art – Tuesdays, Music – Wednesdays, Library – Thursdays, Computer Science
- Fridays.
3:00 pm Mrs. Horton gets the 4th grade class back. Students clean their area, pack up, put their
Chromebooks in the cabinet to charge and have their behavior logs signed (bus riders may use
this time to finish assignments or Mrs. Horton puts something on the Smartboard (usually
The school day concludes with parent pick-up dismissal at 3:15 pm, followed by bus rider
dismissal at 3:25 pm, with the workday officially ending at 3:30 pm.
Classroom Expectations:
have any specified rules or expectations however we have a new 4th/5th Language Arts/Science
teacher this year and she brought these with her. To remain consistent with the other 4th/5th class
she uses them too. The rules are posted above the whiteboard for all to see.
Here in Wythe County, we're fortunate to have large classrooms and smaller class sizes.
Mrs. Horton's classroom is best described as a large rectangle—a space she's occupied for over
25 years, she has amassed an extensive collection of books and resources. (A 360 view
https://youtu.be/Snt1cFmMGc4)
Upon entering her room, you'll immediately notice her desk positioned on the right,
flanked by bookshelves, filing cabinets, and a bulletin board brimming with reminders. One of
Mrs. Horton's bookshelves conveniently holds class bins categorized by grade and subject,
providing a repository for extra assignments in case students misplace their work. Positioned
behind her desk is a dry erase board adorned with magnetic math words, symbols, and several
large maps that can be pulled down to highlight specific features. On the same wall as the dry
erase board, resides the smartboard, accompanied by a small desk housing a laptop wired to it.
This setup enables Mrs. Horton to seamlessly load content from the laptop using either the
ELMO system or various websites, enriching the learning experience for her students.
Arranged in two columns facing the wall housing Mrs. Horton's desk, the smartboard,
and the dry erase board, students are grouped in clusters of three desks each. This deliberate
positioning students in these groupings, the classroom fosters a dynamic environment where
students can engage with the instructional materials on the wall while also participating in group
discussions and collaborative activities. This seating arrangement not only allows students to
focus on the instructional tools displayed but also encourages peer interaction and teamwork.
Towards the rear of the room are two closets designated for students to stow their book
bags—boys' belongings on the left, girls' on the right—doubling also as supplementary storage
space. Nestled between these closets lies Mrs. Horton's classroom library, a collection created
over the years through student contributions and acquisitions. While the books may not be
leveled, they offer a diverse range of reading materials that cater to various interests and reading
levels.
Positioned behind the door, stands another bookshelf housing manipulatives, extra
tissues, cleaning supplies, and assorted items readily accessible to students. Adjacent to this shelf
is a long wall equipped with cabinets at the bottom and a shelf adorned with stacked crates—a
(View of the classroom from the student’s perspective as well as Mrs. Horton.)
Students & Behavior Observations:
During class time, several students exhibit high energy levels and engage in lively
dynamics include frequent verbal interjections, necessitating significant effort to maintain focus
and redirect attention. The presence of multiple students with ADHD and Autism presents
unique challenges, demanding considerable effort to manage disruptions and create an optimal
learning environment.
Among these students, two, particularly one diagnosed with both Autism and ADHD,
frequently navigate the back of the classroom, moving around and occasionally expressing
themselves through vocalizations. These movements and vocalizations, while disruptive at times,
reflect the student's engagement and sensory needs within the learning environment.
Efforts to engage and manage these behaviors take precedence, aiming to provide
Candidate: Taught:
Supervisor:
Subject:
Focus:
Content Knowledge
In this Math and Language Arts integrated lesson, students will explore the characteristics of
solid shapes while honing their descriptive writing skills. They'll identify, compare, and contrast
geometric shapes according to Virginia's Standards of Learning (SOL) for Math (Measurement
and Geometry 4.11). Additionally, they'll practice writing cohesive paragraphs that vividly
describe these shapes, aligning with Language Arts Writing (4.7) objectives. The lesson caters to
diverse learners, ensuring accessibility and engagement through various learning styles and
needs. The lesson plan was meticulously designed, aligning with SOL standards for Math and
Language Arts. It incorporates hands-on activities with magnetic shape kits and Smartboard
brainstorming sessions, and descriptive writing tasks, fostering enhanced understanding and
participation. This lesson bridges information learned in third grade with what students will learn
in fifth grade.
Learner Differences
In this Math and Language Arts integrated lesson, particular attention has been given to creating
a supportive environment for students with ADHD, Autism, and lower reading skills. The lesson
incorporates strategies that accommodate their needs. Visual aids and interactive Smartboard
features assist visual learners and provide clear, visually supported instructions. Additionally,
sensory tools or fidgets are available to aid focus for students with ADHD and Autism, fostering
a conducive learning atmosphere. For those with lower reading skills, simplified instructions,
graphic organizers, verbal cues, and hands-on activities are included to ensure comprehension
and engagement. Moreover, the lesson offers activities specifically tailored to address various
learning styles and multiple intelligences, creating a diverse and inclusive learning experience
Outcomes/Goals
Students are expected to achieve the following learning targets because of this Math and
Identify, describe, compare, and contrast plane and solid figures based on their
characteristics.
Observation of these outcomes will be observable through students' abilities to articulate the
style elements
These learning targets are appropriate based on the prior assessment of students' understandings,
aligning with the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) for Mathematics and Language Arts.
They are observable and measurable, as they can be demonstrated through students' verbal
Essential Questions:
Question: "What makes each shape special and different from others?"
objects or scenarios.
Question: "How can we use words to describe shapes and make them interesting?"
shapes vividly.
Students will compare and contrast the properties of different solid shapes.
comprehensive understanding of solid shapes and descriptive writing techniques within the scope
of the lesson.
Standards
identify,
describe,
compare,
o number of angles,
o vertices,
o edges,
j) Revise writing for clarity of content using specific vocabulary and information.
Smartboard
These materials and resources were selected to foster active learning. The Smartboard
encourages interactive discussions and visual learning, while the magnetic shape kits promote
hands-on exploration of geometric shapes. Visual aids support understanding, and additional
resources offer extended learning opportunities for early finishers, ensuring engagement
Technology
Technology plays a pivotal role in enhancing the lesson's design and delivery while fostering
interactive visuals.
For Teacher:
o Access to Digital Resources: Ensures the teacher has access to digital resources
The use of technology, specifically the Smartboard significantly enhances the lesson's delivery
INSTRUCTIONAL DELIVERY
Learning Environment
Supporting both individual and collaborative learning while fostering positive interaction in the
Group-Based Activities: Organizing students into groups for hands-on exploration with
magnetic shape kits promotes collaboration. Pairing students with different strengths
students to share their observations and ideas, creates a positive environment for
needs ensures inclusivity. Visual aids, auditory cues, and hands-on tasks cater to different
writing tasks encourages collaboration. This promotes idea sharing, peer editing, and
Peer Assistance: Encouraging students to support their peers, especially those with
specific needs, cultivates a sense of empathy and teamwork. Students helping each other
Group Reflections: Concluding activities with group reflections allows students to share
their experiences, learn from one another, and celebrate collective achievements,
individual learning styles, encourages collaboration, and nurtures positive interactions among
Introduction/Activating Strategies
To engage learners and launch the lesson while activating prior knowledge, I'll employ various
strategies tailored to the Math and Language Arts integrated lesson on solid shapes and
descriptive writing.
Interactive Questioning: Begin with open-ended questions about shapes, encouraging students to
share what they already know. For instance, "What shapes can you name, and what do you know
Visual Stimuli: Display visual aids or diagrams of different shapes on the Smartboard, prompting
students to identify and describe the shapes they recognize. This visual cue engages visual
Brainstorming Session: Utilize the Smartboard for a collaborative brainstorming activity where
students contribute shapes they recall and their characteristics. Encourage active participation by
allowing students to interact with the Smartboard to write their answers on the board.
Recall of Previous Lessons: Briefly revisit concepts learned in prior Math classes, emphasizing
similarities between plane and solid figures. This serves as a bridge to activate their previous
build shapes in pairs. Guiding questions can include, "Can you create a shape that matches this
description?"
Connection to Writing: Introduce the Language Arts aspect by discussing how words can
describe shapes. Encourage students to think about how they might describe a shape in writing.
By incorporating these strategies, the lesson launches with interactive engagement, activating
prior knowledge about shapes, encouraging collaboration, and setting the stage for the
Instructional Strategies
TSW work in pairs with magnetic shape kits, constructing various solid shapes.
TTW emphasize the identification of features like edges, vertices, and faces.
TSW compare and contrast shapes, identifying their unique attributes and discussing
TTW discuss real-life examples where these shapes are found, connecting the lesson to
TTW provide students that need extra assistance with preprinted copies of the description
writing organizers.
TTW guide them through the writing process, reminding them to describe shapes using
vivid language and organize their ideas effectively into cohesive paragraphs.
TTW encourage teams to work on their writing together. The task is: “Describe a mystery
shape without revealing its name in a descriptive essay.” They should use vivid
descriptions to allow others to guess the shape being described. Have peers read each
other's descriptions and attempt to identify the shapes based on the writing
TTW provide a copy of the rubric that will be used to assess their writing.
TTW encourage each group to share observations and explanations about shapes with the
class. We made it a competition to see how fast other groups could identify the shape.
TTW engage in discussions solidifying understanding through peer sharing and feedback.
TTW encourage students to think about scenarios where descriptive writing and
understanding shapes are valuable outside the classroom such as in Architecture and
Construction.
Remediation Worksheets and Independent Practice:
Students needing extra support or alternative assignments will use the graphic organizers to
complete a simplified version of the writing (students need only come up with 1 paragraph) or on
TTW monitor progress and understanding, addressing any difficulties students may encounter.
TTW encourage students to apply their learning to real-world scenarios by identifying shapes in
their surroundings.
Extension Activities
o Students can create a short story where shapes play a central role. Incorporating
o Write stories and illustrate them using shapes or drawings that represent the
characters/scenes described.
o Math games through Prodigy online (Mrs. Horton always allows this for anyone
finishing early).
TTW monitor engagement and offer support to students in navigating extension activities.
TTW encourage students to explore further and apply their knowledge to more complex
problems.
TTW discuss with students how the extension activities relate to the lesson content and real-life
collaboration, critical thinking, and real-world application, ensuring students expand and solidify
their understanding of solid shapes while applying their knowledge in authentic contexts. These
collaboration, critical thinking, and real-world application, ensuring students expand and solidify
their understanding of solid shapes while applying their knowledge in authentic contexts.
Closure
To bring closure to the Math and Language Arts integrated lesson on solid shapes and
descriptive writing, several strategies will be employed to summarize the key concepts and
reinforce learning:
Recap the characteristics of solid shapes and the significance of descriptive writing in effectively
Student Reflections:
Encourage individual or paired reflections on the lesson's key learnings. Students can share
insights or interesting discoveries from the activities conducted either verbally or by creating a
applied in everyday life. Prompt students to think about scenarios where these skills are valuable.
This closure approach allows for a summary of the core concepts, gives students a chance to
reflect on their learning, discusses real-world applications, and extends the lesson's concepts for
Differentiation To meet the needs of diverse learners in the Math and Language Arts integrated
lesson on solid shapes and descriptive writing, several differentiated instructional strategies will
Visual Learners:
Utilize visual aids and diagrams on the Smartboard to illustrate shapes and their characteristics
vividly. Also point out the numerous posters and anchor charts in the room. This caters to visual
Hands-On/Tactile Learners:
Incorporate the use of magnetic shape kits for hands-on exploration and manipulation of shapes.
Technology Integration:
Utilize the Smartboard for interactive activities, visually appealing demonstrations to provide
Simplified Instructions:
Offer clear, concise instructions and detailed graphic organizers to provide visual cues to support
students with lower reading levels, ensuring their active participation and understanding.
Support for ADHD/Autism:
Create a supportive environment by allowing the use of sensory tools or fidgets and providing
structured activities. This supports students with ADHD or Autism in maintaining focus.
Flexible Grouping:
Strategically group students, pairing diverse learners to encourage collaborative learning and
Extension Opportunities:
Offer diverse assessment options, such as verbal explanations, written responses (or digital
preferred formats.
By implementing these differentiated strategies and integrating technology, the lesson effectively
accommodates diverse learning styles and needs, ensuring an inclusive and engaging learning
Assessment:
To measure understanding of the outcomes and standards in the Math and Language Arts
integrated lesson on solid shapes and descriptive writing, a variety of formative and summative
assessment tasks and instruments will be used, incorporating both informal and formal methods:
For students completing alternative assignments I will use a checklist instead of a traditional
rubric.
Formative Assessments:
Observations:
Informal assessment through observations during the hands-on activities and discussions to
Summative Assessments:
Summative assessment where students compose descriptive paragraphs about specific shapes,
evaluating their ability to use descriptive language and articulate shape characteristics.
Summative assessment involving a quiz where students identify and label various shapes,
Very clear and add a bit more more work to Improvement: Not
(4.7b)
Clear topic
sentence. (4.7f)
At least 2
complete
sentences. (4.7g)
Included
supporting details.
(4.7k)
Score: _____/__16__
Basic Structure:
Sentence Structure:
( ) Attempts to vary sentence beginnings (using words like "it," "the shape," etc.).
Descriptive Language:
( ) Includes at least one descriptive word or phrase to illustrate the shape (e.g., round, straight,
big, small).
Content Understanding:
This checklist offers a simplified evaluation format focusing on fundamental aspects of writing
for a student operating below grade level. It emphasizes effort, basic structure, and
comprehension while allowing for individual capacity. Adjustments or additional supports may
PROFESSIONAL LEARNING
Reflection
Evaluating the lesson involved examining areas where my learners’ encountered challenges
during the lesson. Some learners struggled with grasping specific shape characteristics or
expressing ideas effectively in descriptive writing, particularly those with diverse learning needs,
areas for improvement is crucial for enhancing the lesson's efficacy. To strengthen the lesson, I'll
more diverse perspectives and cultural references to make the content more relatable and
inclusive. This might involve providing clearer instructions, incorporating interactive elements
for better engagement, and encouraging feedback from students to enhance future lessons. The
diverse cultural perspectives, stories, and examples into the lesson, ensuring representation and
Lesson Outline:
Objective:
Math (Measurement and Geometry 4.11): Students will identify, describe, compare, and contrast
plane and solid figures based on their characteristics, including angles, vertices, edges, and faces.
Language Arts Writing (4.7): Students will write cohesive paragraphs describing solid shapes,
utilizing pre-writing strategies, clear topic sentences, multiple related paragraphs, style elements,
Materials:
Smartboard
Chromebooks
Visual Aids
Writing Rubric
Lesson Breakdown:
Initiate a brainstorming session using the Smartboard to recall geometric shapes and their
characteristics.
Guide students through writing cohesive paragraphs describing shapes using vivid language and
organization.
Introduced the writing as a competition. The task is: “Describe a mystery shape without
revealing its name in a descriptive essay.” Using vivid descriptions to allow others to guess the
shape being described. Have peers read each other's descriptions and attempt to identify the
shapes based on the writing. Encourage groups to share any additional observations about their
Discuss real-world scenarios where descriptive writing and understanding shapes are valuable.
o Create a short story where shapes play a central role. Incorporating the shapes as
characters/scenes described.
Closure (5 minutes):
Encourage individual or paired reflections on the lesson's learnings and their real-world
applications.
Differentiation Strategies:
Visual aids, hands-on activities, and simplified instructions cater to diverse learning styles and
needs.
Assessment:
Summative assessments through written descriptive paragraphs and shape identification quizzes.
Simplified checklist-based assessments for students operating below grade level.
Student artifacts:
Teacher Feedback
Formal Lesson Plan Reflection
Lesson Title/Topic:
Math and Language Arts Integration: Exploring Characteristics of Solid Shapes & Descriptive
Writing
Standards/Learning Objectives:
Overarching Topic: Understanding solid shapes through exploration and descriptive writing.
Math and Language Arts Integration: Exploring Characteristics of Solid Shapes & Descriptive
Writing
Integrations:
Math (Measurement and Geometry 4.11): Students will identify, describe, compare, and contrast
plane and solid figures based on their characteristics, including angles, vertices, edges, and faces.
Language Arts Writing (4.7): Students will write cohesive paragraphs describing solid shapes,
utilizing pre-writing strategies, clear topic sentences, multiple related paragraphs, style elements,
The lesson aims to engage students in hands-on activities exploring solid shapes through
magnetic kits and then transition to descriptive writing to articulate their understanding. Students
will collaboratively write descriptive paragraphs about shapes and engage in a fun guessing
The students in the class have diverse learning styles and needs. To accommodate these
differences, the lesson employs visual aids, hands-on activities, and flexible grouping.
Additionally, there are differentiated activities for early finishers and simplified assessments for
collaborative discussions, peer presentations, and extension activities like creative story writing
Assessment Plan:
Formative assessments include observations throughout the lesson, while summative assessments
assessments, such as checklist-based evaluations, cater to students operating below grade level.
Personal Reflection:
At the last minute, I transformed the assignment into a competition in response to the students'
expressed interest and requests. This modification notably increased their engagement and
motivation, as they eagerly embraced the challenge to emerge as the 'winner.' Witnessing their
heightened enthusiasm and dedication was encouraging, showcasing the positive impact of
However, considering the diverse nature of the class, this competitive approach presented
challenges, particularly for groups requiring additional support. Notably, one group, inclusive of
a student with autism and ADHD, encountered difficulties in generating a descriptive paragraph.
Their struggle culminated in a simplified rendition, mainly listing the characteristics of the shape
Reflecting on this, while the competitive element sparked engagement, it became evident that for
such a diverse classroom, finding a balance between healthy competition and accommodating
options for expression might have better supported groups needing more assistance, fostering a
more inclusive learning environment for all students. This experience underscores the
importance of adapting strategies to meet diverse learning styles and needs without
Moving forward, I aim to explore more inclusive approaches that offer flexibility while still
fostering motivation. Striving for methods that cater to diverse needs without sacrificing the
Goals for Improvement: Moving forward, I aim to explore more inclusive approaches that offer
flexibility while still fostering motivation. Striving for methods that cater to diverse needs
without sacrificing the engagement and involvement of any student will be a priority.
Lesson Plan 2
Candidate: Taught:
Supervisor:
Subject:
Focus:
Content Knowledge
This lesson is meticulously crafted to delve into the exploration and creation of number patterns,
fostering collaborative skills and effective communication within group activities. Students will
actively identify, describe, and extend number patterns found in various formats such as in
numbers, and tables. The lesson emphasizes participation in discussions, contributions to group
learning activities, and the effective communication of new ideas. Its structure encourages
incomplete number patterns, challenging classmates to solve them. This lesson bridges the
collaborative skills necessary for future learning endeavors. This lesson bridges information
learned in fourth grade with what students will learn in sixth grade.
Learner Differences
This lesson was carefully crafted by considering various learning approaches and potential
challenges students might face. It focuses on exploring and comprehending number patterns in
an accessible manner for all learners. Diverse teaching methods like visual aids, hands-on
activities, and interactive tasks were incorporated to facilitate engagement and understanding.
activities and emphasizes collaborative group work to foster peer support. Leveraging existing
knowledge, the lesson builds upon foundational concepts to create a smoother learning
progression. Additionally, tailored activities are included to accommodate diverse learning styles
and multiple intelligences, fostering an inclusive and diverse learning environment catering to
Outcomes/Goals
For Mathematics (Aligned with SOL 5.18 - Patterns, Functions, and Algebra):
Identify and Describe Number Patterns: Students will recognize and describe number
operation rules for addition, subtraction, and multiplication of whole numbers, fractions
patterns using verbal and symbolic language, employing words, tables, and symbols.
For Language Arts (Aligned with SOL 5.1 - Communication: Speaking, Listening, Media
Literacy):
Aligned with Math (SOL 5.18) and Language Arts (SOL 5.1) standards, the lesson focuses on
communication within group discussions and collaborative tasks. These outcomes are observable
Essential Questions:
For Mathematics:
Recognizing Patterns: How do shapes, numbers, and tables follow a certain order or
pattern?
o Possible Response: "Shapes have repeating patterns like squares, circles, and
triangles."
Extending Patterns: How can we predict what comes next in a pattern of numbers or
shapes?
o Possible Response: "If I see 2, 4, 6, 8, I know the next number is 10 because I add
2 each time."
Solving Math Problems: How do addition, subtraction, and multiplication help solve
o Possible Response: "To solve problems, I add or take away numbers, like 6 + 4 or
12 - 5."
Group Communication: How do we effectively share our ideas in discussions and group
activities?
o Possible Response: "We talk, listen, summarize, and present our thoughts clearly
to others."
Collaboration and Independent Work: How can we work together in teams and on our
o Possible Response: "We help each other but also do our part alone to finish tasks
in our groups."
Altogether, these outcomes and essential questions provide a comprehensive framework for
Standards
5.18 The student will identify, describe, create, express, and extend number patterns found in
The student will use problem solving, mathematical communication, mathematical reasoning,
Identify, create, describe, and extend patterns using concrete materials, number lines,
tables, or pictures.
Describe and express the relationship found in patterns, using words, tables, and
symbols.
Solve practical problems that involve identifying, describing, and extending single-
operation input and output rules (limited to addition, subtraction and multiplication of
subtraction of
5.1 The student will listen, draw conclusions, and share responses in subject-related group
learning activities.
In this lesson, technology won't be utilized. Instead, hands-on tools like paper, pencils, and
physical manipulatives will foster active learning. These materials will enable students to engage
directly with number patterns, problem-solving, and collaborative activities. They encourage
the use of digital platforms. For the teacher, traditional teaching tools like worksheets, drawings,
and physical manipulatives will aid in presenting materials and facilitating interactive learning
INSTRUCTIONAL DELIVERY
Learning Environment
In our classroom, we strive to create an environment that caters to individual learning styles
while fostering collaboration among students. For individual learning, we provide diverse
activities and resources tailored to different learning styles, ensuring each student feels engaged
while exploring number patterns and data analysis. Students are guided through step-by-step
processes, allowing them to progress at their own pace and gain confidence. We also encourage
peer support, enabling students to seek help and learn from each other.
Collaborative learning is integral to our classroom culture. Through group activities and projects,
activities, and peer feedback enhance communication and the exchange of ideas among students.
Our aim is to nurture an environment where students feel encouraged, supported, and motivated
Positive interaction is key in our classroom dynamics. We establish clear norms that promote
respect, attentive listening, and appreciation for diverse perspectives. Students are empowered to
share thoughts, ask questions, and engage in discussions, fostering an inclusive atmosphere
where every voice is valued. Recognizing individual and group achievements contributes to
building a supportive community where students feel empowered and motivated to learn
collaboratively.
Introduction/Activating Strategies
I'll start this Math and Language Arts lesson with an engaging introduction that taps into
students' creativity and critical thinking. Using visual aids, I'll display various number patterns
on the board, showcasing sequences like 2, 4, 6, 8 or patterns found in shapes and tables. This
visual display aims to capture students' attention and prompt curiosity about number patterns,
laying the foundation for exploration. Following this, I'll conduct a live demonstration,
illustrating how to recognize and extend number patterns step by step. This live demo will allow
students to observe the process, fostering active participation and better understanding.
To activate prior knowledge, I'll connect number patterns to familiar concepts. I'll relate it to
about recognizing patterns in their surroundings. Additionally, I'll prompt them to think about
how they solve number sequence puzzles or figure out next numbers in a sequence. This
approach aims to bridge their existing knowledge with the new concept of number patterns,
making it more relatable and accessible. Ultimately, by launching the lesson with visually
stimulating examples, live demonstrations, and connections to familiar concepts, the goal is to
actively engage students in exploring and understanding number patterns in Math and Language
Arts.
Instructional Strategies
learned.
pattern creation.
collaborative activities, and reflective discussions, fostering critical thinking, teamwork, and a
Closure
As we approach the end of our lesson exploring number patterns, I’ll guide a comprehensive
I'll lead a review, summarizing the core concepts learned during our engaging lesson. Emphasis
will be placed on identifying and extending number patterns. Students will have the opportunity
to share their experiences from today's lesson or discuss their favorite parts. Peers can offer
Engaging in a discussion about creativity and expression, students will explore various ways
mathematical concepts are used in everyday scenarios, encouraging them to think creatively
To conclude, I'll facilitate a conversation about the practical applications of number patterns and
This concluding activity aims to reinforce understanding in number patterns, encourage creative
thinking, and connect our learning to practical, real-world contexts, ensuring a comprehensive
Differentiation
In ensuring an inclusive and engaging experience for all students, especially those with ADHD
and those working below grade level, the lesson on number patterns and language arts will be
adapted. Visual aids and color-coded instructions may be utilized to assist students with ADHD,
aiding their focus and comprehension, while also supporting those needing extra guidance. To
accommodate different learning needs, tasks will be broken down into smaller, manageable
segments, facilitating better understanding and engagement, particularly beneficial for students
with attention concerns. Hands-on activities will be incorporated to provide tactile engagement,
Flexible pacing will be encouraged, allowing students to progress at their own speed, promoting
a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Individualized support and guidance will be
readily available to address any challenges students might face in grasping the concept, ensuring
Positive reinforcement and encouragement will play a pivotal role, fostering a supportive
atmosphere that acknowledges students' efforts and achievements, thereby boosting their
confidence and motivation. These adapted strategies aim to create an inclusive and supportive
learning environment, enabling all students to actively participate and explore number patterns
Assessment:
In evaluating comprehension during our lesson on number patterns and language arts, various
collaborations will provide insights into individual engagement levels and understanding.
patterns will serve as a formative assessment, evaluating how well students apply learned
• Peer Discussions and Collaborative Work: Evaluation of discussions and group projects will
progress and engagement. The written responses, comprising worksheets completed by each
student, will focus on the real-world applications of number patterns. These worksheets will be
evaluated to gauge the depth of understanding and the ability to connect lesson content to
practical situations.
number patterns and their ability to apply this knowledge in real-world contexts beyond the
classroom.
PROFESSIONAL LEARNING
Reflection
Before introducing the math and language arts lesson, a review highlighted potential troubles
students might face. These included comprehending intricate number patterns and applying these
concepts practically. Such challenges might be more prominent among students with diverse
Identifying these early on allows for targeted improvements for a better learning experience.
To enhance the lesson, I'll refine instructions, offering clearer, step-by-step guidance. I'll
simplify the initial complexity of number patterns to aid comprehension and incorporate relatable
weaving diverse cultural references into the material, aligning with culturally sustaining
pedagogies. This fosters an inclusive learning environment. To achieve this, I'll provide clearer
instructions, interactive elements for engagement, and seek student feedback for ongoing
enhancements.
The goal is to create an inclusive space that appreciates diversity through various cultural
perspectives. This initiative ensures representation and enriches the learning experience, setting
1 Ticket $11
2 Tickets $__
Look carefully at the patterns below. Then, write the rule on the line.
Rule: __________________
Rule: __________________
Rule: __________________
Rule: __________________
Rule: __________________
1
7
49
343
Fill in the following charts.
Start with zero.
Rule +3 Rule +6
Rule - 5 Rule + 3
NPUT OUTPUT
14 17
21 25
28 31
? 38
Extended Response
Part A:
Gracie generated two numerical patterns. The rules are add 4 starting with 0 for the first
pattern and add 6 starting with the second pattern.
0,4,8,12,16…..
0,6,12,16,24,30…..
Did Gracie generate correct patterns? Use words or numbers to justify your answer.
Part B:
Paul is training for a triathlon. Each week, he will swim 4 more laps than the previous week.
Each week, he will run 2 more miles than the previous week.
Generate two numerical patterns to match the problem above. The starting number for
each pattern is given.
Name ________________________________
4
8
16
32
Rule - 3 Rule - 2
INPUT OUTPUT
100 200
200 400
300 ?
400 800
__________
Extended Response
Part A:
George generated two numerical patterns. The rules are add 5 starting with 0 for the first
pattern and add 7 starting with the second pattern.
0,5,10,15,20…..
0,7,17,17,27,37…..
Did George generate correct patterns? Use words or numbers to justify your answer.
Part B:
Pam is training for a triathlon. Each week, she will swim 6 more laps than the previous week.
Each week, she will run 3 more miles than the previous week.
Generate two numerical patterns to match the problem above. The starting number for each
pattern is given.
BONUS:
Identify the pattern:
a) 36, 18, 9, 4.5, 2.25, 1.125, 0.5625________________
b) 45, 15, 5, 1.67, 0.56, 0.19, 0.06________________
c) 3, 10, 21, 36, 55, 78, 105________________
2 6
1 4
3 7
2
4
5 20
32 9
10 10
Rule: Rule:
25 5 $10 $8
4 $12 $10
15 $16
2 $20
5 1 $30
________________
Rule: Rule:
Lesson Overview
Lesson Focus: This lesson is designed to engage students in comprehending and crafting number
patterns while nurturing collaborative skills and effective communication within group activities.
Math 5.18: Students will identify, describe, create, and extend number patterns found in various
formats.
Language Arts 5.1: Students will actively participate in discussions, contribute to group learning
Materials:
Math manipulatives
student.
Individual Task: Students work independently on the worksheets, completing the number
Lesson Activities:
Students form small groups and discuss their approaches to solving the worksheets, focusing on
Groups collaborate on more challenging number patterns, ensuring each student actively
Explain the goal: groups will create incomplete number patterns for their classmates to solve.
Students attempt to solve the patterns created by other groups, promoting discussion of strategies
Assessment:
Formative Assessment: Ongoing observations during group discussions and pattern creation,
Closure (5 minutes):
This revised lesson plan strategically incorporates worksheets and collaborative creation of
patterns. It actively cultivates collaborative skills and problem-solving strategies, aligning with
Teacher Feedback
Formal Lesson Reflection
Integrations: Math 5.18: Students will identify, describe, create, and extend number
Language Arts 5.1: Students will actively participate in discussions, contribute to group
The lesson aims to engage students in understanding and creating number patterns
followed by small group discussions and collaborative creation of more complex patterns. The
lesson culminates in a class-wide challenge where students exchange and solve each other's
The students in the class have varying learning styles and needs. To cater to these differences,
the lesson includes individual worksheet tasks, small group discussions, and collaborative
activities. Differentiated tasks and extension opportunities accommodate different paces and
preferences. Sensory tools or manipulatives are available to support varied learning styles.
classmates to solve.
Classmate Challenge: Groups exchange and solve incomplete patterns created by others,
Assessment Plan:
Formative Assessment: Observations during group discussions and pattern creation, focusing on
Personal Reflection:
The lesson facilitated engagement and collaborative learning among students. The individual
worksheet tasks effectively activated prior knowledge. The collaborative activities, specifically
creating incomplete number patterns, fostered engagement and critical thinking. However, for
In future lessons, providing additional guidance and scaffolding during the creation of more
Daily Journals:
Today marked the official beginning of my time with Mrs. Horton at Speedwell Elementary. I
spent the morning observing classroom dynamics and familiarizing myself with Mrs. Horton's
teaching style. This time was crucial in understanding the students' interactions and the overall
classroom environment.
grading assignments and eventually working directly with students. During Mrs. Horton's
attendance/lunch and Tiger TV sessions, I focused on grading assignments. Once the lesson was
underway and students were working independently, I engaged with individual students needing
one-on-one support. Post-lunch, I assisted 5th-grade students to ensure they stayed on track with
the lesson, offering additional help to those requiring extra support. This hands-on experience
provided me with the opportunity to offer targeted assistance, addressing specific academic
needs, while also gaining invaluable insights into the challenges students encounter.
Today was another full day of engaging with the students and the classroom routine. I continued
to support individual students, providing guidance during class activities. Also graded and helped
file assignments to be returned to students. The day also involved observing and understanding
the diverse dynamics of group collaboration within both the 4th and 5th-grade classes.
Day 4 - November 27, 2023 (8 am - 3 pm):
Today was a pivotal day as I had the opportunity to deliver my prepared lesson to both the 4th
and 5th grade classes. The 4th-grade session in the morning presented a unique challenge as
students, working in groups, spent more time deliberating on the type of shape they intended to
describe rather than actively engaging in the writing process. This unexpected turn slowed the
dynamics in future sessions. Despite the challenge, it was a valuable learning experience in
understanding the dynamics of group collaboration within this specific classroom setting.
In the afternoon session with the 5th graders, they demonstrated exceptional effort in trying to
stump their classmates. One group, including the gifted and talented student, excelled by creating
a pattern that required multiple steps, proving difficult for most students to process initially.
However, through collective effort and persistence, everyone deciphered the patterns presented
by each group. What was particularly inspiring was the outstanding sportsmanship displayed by
all 5th grade students. They offered encouragement to all groups and cheered everyone on,
Witnessing the dynamics of both grades provided rich insights into group interactions and the
varying levels of engagement among students. These observations highlighted the importance of
significantly inform my approach to future lessons, emphasizing strategies for efficient group
collaboration and maximizing student engagement. Overall, the day offered invaluable lessons
I took on an increasingly significant role within the classroom environment. Mrs. Horton
entrusted me with a more active participation, directing students to me for assistance or to verify
their answers. This responsibility allowed me to engage more directly with the students, offering
providing support during learning tasks, evolving into a more integral part of the students'
educational experience.
Continuing in this newfound role, I maintained active involvement in guiding and supporting
students, particularly those requiring additional assistance. As Mrs. Horton encouraged students
to seek clarification and support from me, it became apparent that my role within the classroom
had evolved to become an essential resource for the students' academic progress.
In my final morning at Speedwell Elementary for this round, my role as an integral support
figure within the classroom was solidified. Students continued to seek my assistance for
guidance and verification of their work, showcasing the trust and reliance that had developed
over the past days. Discussions with Mrs. Horton regarding diversified teaching methodologies
further emphasized the collaborative approach and highlighted the importance of inclusive
Final Reflection:
student-centered and constructivist practices. The classroom environment actively fostered these
methodologies by encouraging students to take ownership of their learning. There was a
approach. Students were given opportunities to engage in group activities, pose questions, and
explore concepts through hands-on experiences. This led to a deeper comprehension of subjects
as they actively constructed their knowledge. Witnessing the shift from passive receivers of
information to active constructors of knowledge was inspiring and underscored the effectiveness
of student-centered approaches.
Regarding differentiation and individualization, the diversity among students was consistently
acknowledged and addressed. Mrs. Horton adeptly tailored instruction to accommodate various
learning styles and abilities. Each student's unique academic needs were recognized and
supported, ensuring a more inclusive learning environment. Strategies ranged from providing
one-on-one guidance to incorporating diverse materials, allowing every student to access and
engage with the curriculum at their own pace and comfort level.
Behavior monitoring and management were seamlessly integrated into the classroom routine.
Mrs. Horton employed proactive strategies to monitor student behavior, ensuring a conducive
disruptions, fostering a respectful and engaging environment for learning. This approach not only
addressed behavioral concerns effectively but also prioritized the students' emotional well-being,
Integrated instruction was evident throughout various subjects, connecting different disciplines
to provide a holistic learning experience. Lessons were designed to intertwine math and language
arts seamlessly, allowing students to see the interconnectedness of various subjects. This
approach facilitated a more comprehensive understanding of concepts, encouraging students to
apply their learning across different contexts. It underscored the importance of holistic education
effective behavior management strategies, and the power of integrated instruction. These
observations reinforced the notion that a flexible, inclusive, and engaging classroom
environment fosters not only academic growth but also nurtures the holistic development of
students.