To reach every student, teachers must know that every child learns differently and has their own individual set of needs. There are unique differences in how we all process information and the environments that will be conducive to our personal growth. Patterns of learning vary across cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and physical arenas making part of the job of an effective educator recognizing individual needs and building on strengths. Some of the ways that I addressed learner development was through station work, small groups, and collaboration with both teachers and parents.
Station work is a way that multiple intelligences and skill levels can be addressed within the same class period while allowing content practice. Here, students can participate in activities specifically designed to target weak knowledge areas that require them to move their body, draw, think logically, work together with a peer, write about the topic, etc. I have included a picture of students using a foldable (created during instruction) to work through a number maze with a peer.
Small group rotations are a perfect opportunity to assess individual student needs and further create openings for learners to develop. Students can work by themselves or with a peer on assignments related to the standard. Then after a set amount of time, students can rotate and work with a teacher. Rotations allow students the chance to ask any questions they are uncomfortable asking in front of the class. Plus, small groups allows me the chance to monitor progress and address confusions.
Also, important to learner development is consistent parent and teacher collaboration. Understanding students’ expectations and behaviors at home, in other classes, and in past years can be beneficial to understanding their current needs. Collaboration provides the opportunity to move past current ideas and gain suggestions about how to further meet learners needs.