For this assignment, I created shape flashcards through BoardMaker to support differentiated instruction in my classroom. Starting from scratch, I designed each flashcard by creating boxes, selecting the needed shapes, and adding labels for teacher reference. Once printed, I cut, assembled, and laminated each flashcard to ensure durability.
Explanation of Competency: This artifact demonstrates my competency in differentiated instruction by providing visual and tactile support for students learning shapes. The flashcards can be used in a variety of ways to meet different learning needs, such as for one-on-one support, group activities, or independent review. This approach helps reinforce shape recognition through both visual aids and kinesthetic activities, supporting diverse learning styles and developmental needs.
Future Modifications: To enhance their impact, I would consider adding interactive elements, such as Velcro or magnetic backs, so students can engage with the shapes in hands-on sorting or matching activities. I might also create additional sets for varying skill levels, such as flashcards with color-coded borders for students who need extra support or those ready for advanced practice.
This artifact is a clear and visually engaging chart that explains different types of figurative language, which is effective in supporting academic language instruction.
Explanation of Competency: This chart helps students understand and identify various figurative language forms through definitions, examples, and visuals. It clarifies complex language concepts in a structured way, improving comprehension and supporting vocabulary acquisition.
Effect on Student Learning: By breaking down each figurative language type, the chart encourages students to recognize and use these language forms in their writing, enhancing their literary skills.
Future Modifications: To further engage students, I could add interactive elements—like a blank column for students to write their examples. Alternatively, create a digital version where students can click on each term to reveal examples or practice questions, making the learning experience more dynamic.
This "Meet the Student Teacher" flyer is an excellent artifact showcasing professional communication with students' families. It introduces me to families in a warm, approachable way, helping to build rapport and establish trust. By sharing my background, role, and contact information, I make it clear that I'm open to communication and invested in their child's learning experience.
Explanation of Competency: This flyer demonstrates my competency in family communication by creating an inviting, informative introduction to my role. It helps bridge the gap between home and school, providing families with a better understanding of who I am and fostering a supportive environment. This kind of communication can ease family concerns and promote engagement, contributing positively to student learning by creating a stable, consistent connection between home and school.
Future Modifications: To further support student learning and engagement, I would add a QR code linking to a survey where families can share information about their child’s needs, strengths, and preferences. I would also add a section inviting families to schedule one-on-one time with me, if desired, or include a brief overview of my teaching approach to align expectations between school and home.
The Gimkit is a valuable artifact showcasing my competency in using educational technology to engage students in learning. Gimkit is an interactive platform where students answer questions to earn in-game currency, which they can then use to enhance their gameplay, creating a highly engaging experience that feels like a game rather than a traditional quiz.
Explanation of Competency: This Gimkit activity demonstrates my ability to leverage technology in a way that transforms learning into an interactive experience. By gamifying the learning process, I not only increase engagement but also reinforce content in an enjoyable, low-stakes environment. The competitive and collaborative elements of Gimkit help students stay motivated, practice content, and get immediate feedback on their answers, all of which support retention and mastery of material.
Effect on Student Learning: By integrating a tool like Gimkit, I can boost student participation and enthusiasm for learning, particularly for students who benefit from interactive and game-based learning. Students often feel more motivated to review content through Gimkit than through more traditional methods, which can lead to improved understanding and retention.
Future Modifications: To enhance its effectiveness, consider customizing the Gimkit questions based on ongoing formative assessments or student feedback to better target areas of need. I might also experiment with team-based modes in Gimkit to encourage collaboration or add reflection questions at the end to help students connect the content they reviewed with real-world applications. Additionally, offering a mix of Gimkit and other tech tools, such as Kahoot! or Quizizz, could provide variety and maintain high levels of engagement.