UDL & Differentiation
Compare and Contrast
UDL
Universal Design for learning "is a framework for flexible learning environments that ensures all students have access to the same curriculum and learning opportunities (Puckett, 2013). This plan encourages teachers to plan ahead for different type of circumstances so that adaptions are not needed later (Puckett, 2013). "It attempts to change the curriculum by reducing unintentional barriers that are irrelevant to goals of learning (Puckett, 2013)"
Differentiation
Differentiated instruction allows teachers to consider students strengths and weaknesses and devise instruction based on these characteristics. Instruction is varied, so students can take in information in different ways, use different approaches to understanding key aspects of information, and express or demonstrate what they have learned according to their skills and abilities (Puckett, 2013).
"Only through appropriate learning accommodations can students realize their ultimate potential"
Presenting Information
Presenting information in my classroom consist of many different ways. I use varied ways such as my smart board, worksheets placed in page protectors to turn them into a dry erase worksheet, I use small group instruction, partner work, activities etc.
Demonstrating Background Knowledge
One way that I love to inquire about background knowledge is by doing an interactive KWL chart. Give students a sticky note and have them place their name at the top. I then have them to write something that they know and place them on an anchor chart. I then read some of them out (without their names) and we talk about it. I love the sticky notes because I can take a quick glance and see who remembers. It also activate their brains when they hear others answers and creates an expansion response.
Engaging and Motivating Students
One way that I love engaging and motivating my students is by using incentives. "Incentives create a motivating atmosphere, coupled with a positive attitude, ensures that students are engaged in learning" (ILTI, 2016). Students like to look forward to something and to be acknowledged for their hard work. In my classroom I have a Super Reader program where my students receive incentives for completing reading badges or graduating a reading level. This is my first year teaching that I have included this program with incentives and according to STAR Reading assessment I have 100% of students who grew 9 plus months and was rewarded this year for being the top performer of my grade level. Using incentives in my classroom has motivated my students and kept them engaged in learning.
References
Inspiring learning Through Incentives. (2016). Retrieved from
http://www.edutopia.org/blog/inspiring-learning-through-incentives-kathleen-decker
Puckett, K. (2013). Differentiating Instruction: A Practical Guide. Retrieved from
Constellation