Diverse Learners

How do you approach planning and teaching to diverse learners?

I think that before you get to know your students it is important to plan for as many different kinds of learners as possible. In art it is possible to make accommodations through visual and verbal instructions and showing many examples and demonstrations. Students can help each other and older students can volunteer to help younger students (if allowed by the school schedule). As you get to know your students individually, it is easier to anticipate the different needs of each student.

What accommodations have you made for diverse learners?

In my classroom I have made accommodations for diverse learners by providing verbal and written instructions, giving demonstrations, and moving around the classroom to help students individually. In some cases I have called in an ELL specialist to help with writing activities. I have had students help each other-I find that this is beneficial to all students and builds different skills for each individual. Additionally, for students with difficulty using fine motor skills I will have them use tools like rulers and stencil to aid in their art. Using a light box or overhead project has helped students in my classroom with low vision or difficulty seeing contrast. I have also read tests and other written materials out loud to students with reading disability or students that have trouble concentrating.