3. Planning for Differentiated Instruction

Description: This paper was done during a Special Education course, and in it I discuss the characteristics, causes, and teaching strategies relating to Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder.

Connection: This paper connects to performance indicators 3p and 3q, in that it offers ways to modify instruction and develop strategies to best fit the needs of students who fall into this specifc disability category. ADHD is one example of a diverse characteristic which teachers need to be understanding of.

Explanation: Planning for differntiated instruction requires understanding differences students in your classroom may have. From this assignment I learned strategies like preferential seating, purposeful jobs, and physial cues, all of these which I now implement into my teaching often.

Description: For this paper I wrote about a specifc unique need for which I chose Orthopedic Impairments. In the paper I discuss the prevalence and causes of OIs, as well as the many different accommodations which can be implemented to serve this population of students.

Connection: This paper connects to performance indicator 3k in that part of my role as a PE teacher working with students with OIs is teaching them how to accomlish functional skills with their specifc impairment in mind. This could be skills like throwing or catching, or even health skills like flossing or applying deodorant.

Explanation: From this assignemnt I was able to reflect on my own experiences with students with OIs and how I can better support them in my classes. I also was reminded of the importance of helping these students track their progress and assist them in meeting their IEP goals.