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Identify one or two ways you can, as Dr. Black says, “build a structure [in your classroom] that also has a level of flexibility.”
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I taught math so I would always introduce each concept in multiple ways to reach all learners. I might present it orally, but also incorporate visual aids and hands-on activities. I was very flexible in allowing students to show their work in different ways and at times if the concept didn’t stick then I was adjust my lesson for that day.
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Even when structures are in place using differentiation to administer the same learning experience can be actualized. The same lesson can be taught using a variety of materials including learning aids, technology tools, or practical activities. This means that the teacher will always have to plan ahead to be ready for the students.
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You can have learning objectives that are applied to every student but give flexibility in how the application of learning is presented. Some students may present an oral report, some give a visual presentation with cultural dress or even cooking. There are so many creative ways students can express what they learned about a given topic. Some students might need to be given more difficult reading or extensive research because they are academically gifted.
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I am still working to build structure in my classroom. As a young teacher teaching kids that are close to my age, it is hard to draw the line of friendship and teacher. I want the kids to enjoy my course and respect me, but also not get to comfy with me. I have a smaller course setting so I am able to be flexible and allow for other learning opportunities but it is hard when the students take advantage.
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My classroom is incredibly structured from how I set up the furniture to how the day as a whole runs. I firmly believe a consistent structure puts kids at ease. Knowing what to expect throughout the day allows the students to focus on what’s important instead of constantly wondering “what now?” At the same time, I do like the flexibility of providing a variety of assignments to prove the students understand the content. One size does not fit all in education so we need to be mindful of that truth when doing our lesson plans.
