Standard 4

Standard 4: Uses strategies to deliver instruction that meet the multiple learning needs of students. 

a. Aligns classroom instruction with local standards and district curriculum.
Description of Artifact: Lesson Plan
Data Source: Counselor
Interpretation: This artifact demonstrates how I am aligning my classroom instruction with local standards and district curriculum. Our district has implemented and continues to use a PBIS program (Bondurant's BEST) and one of the ways I carry it out is through weekly classroom guidance lessons. When designing this lesson for our kindergarten classrooms, I based some of the objectives on our Bondurant's BEST/PBIS program - specifically, the the B component of being kind and respectful in the classroom.

b. Uses research-based instructional strategies that address the full range of cognitive levels. 
Description of Artifact: Lesson Plan
Data Source: Counselor
Interpretation: This artifact demonstrates how I use questioning techniques that foster classroom discussion to increase student knowledge and monitor their learning. My classroom guidance lessons are slightly different than your average academic lesson, and this lesson plan indicates the manner in which I use content and personalization/application questions. I work to have classroom discussions where I can monitor my students' learning and see how they are processing each topic as it applies to them/their daily lives.

c. Demonstrates flexibility and responsiveness in adjusting instruction to meet student needs. 
Description of Artifact: SST Plan
Data Source: Counselor
Interpretation: When planning for and delivering instruction and/or counseling, I try to respond individually to each student's needs. Through knowing a learner's individual accommodations or goals as noted on their SST plan, I am able to adjust the way I communicate with them and work to accommodate their needs. 

d. Engages students in varied experiences that meet diverse needs and promote social, emotional, and academic growth.
Description of Artifact: Lesson plan
Data Source: Counselor
Interpretation: This lesson plan is an example of how I engage students in experiences that promote social and emotional growth. The book SHARE & TAKE TURNS and the corresponding game we play as a class really challenges students to work cooperatively with others and demonstrate effective communication skills.

e. Connects students' prior knowledge, life experiences, and interests in the instructional process. 
Description of Artifact: Lesson plan
Data Source: Counselor
Interpretation: This artifact demonstrates how I identify for learners the connections and potential applications of what we learn to real-life issues and problems. As indicated in the process section of my lesson plan, I lead an opening discussion with questions such as: What does it mean to be disabled/physically disabled?; What are some ways that people become disabled?; and How do you think these people feel different from others? In addition, I ended the lesson with discussion questions like: How much fun would it be if you had to live like that the rest of your life?; How would you feel is someone was disrespectful and called you names/laughed at you because of how your hand looked?; and How will you show respect to those who are different from you/have a disability? I use questions like these to connect students’ prior knowledge and life experiences to the topic of the lesson.

f. Uses available resources, including technologies, in the delivery of instruction. 
Description of Artifact: Howard B. Wigglebottom website
Data Source: Counselor
Interpretation: The Howard B. Wigglebottom website is one I have used for both instruction and review of skills. Students enjoy the change in instructional delivery and the website provides a great way to interactively engage students.