Teaching Every Student:
I recently had a nutrition lesson with my second grade students that included a live theatre group. My kids loved it! I was amazed at how engaged and focused they were during the performance. After the show, they were able to recall so much information than I had ever seen previously. Wow was I impressed!
UDL guidelines are organized according to the 3 main principles that address representation, expression, and engagement. Embedded into these principles are specific checkpoints that offer practical suggestions for implementation. The checkpoint which I found most relevant to my population of students was Checkpoint 2.4: Promoting understanding across languages. I found the resources to be very helpful as I find that all students respond to music. I found the following video to be quite impressive.
http://www.cast.org/teachingeverystudent/
 | Music and Dance Drive Academic Achievement
Watch this video to see an example of arts integration to promote academic achievement. Opening Minds Through the Arts (OMA) is a student-achievement program that uses music, dance, and visual arts to teach skills used in reading, writing, math, science, and other subjects.
Age Group: All ages
Content Area: All
Cost: Free
Technology Involved: Internet connection to access video; many of the strategies modeled require no technology.
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Why UDL? Pay special attention to how the integration of the arts benefits English Language Learners. Linking to content that crosses language barriers, while taking steps to develop vocabulary and build communication skills are effective examples of promoting cross-linguistic understanding!
See also:
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I love the idea of adding music, dance, and drama activities into a lesson plan. I think your idea to have the students perform a theatre group is great!
ReplyDeleteWhen I taught Kindergarten a few years ago, the students loved when we learned through music and movement activities. I felt like they learned best through different activities, especially ones that had them up and moving, as well as engaged with their peers.
I can imagine teaching Kindergarten students. They are easily distracted by nature. I totally agree with you that young children learn best by interacting with their peers and becoming engaged.
DeleteThe video you added is awesome! I love the idea of adding music and movement into learning. I believe it engages the students and makes it memorable for them. I know with my second graders they absolutely love activities similar to this video.
ReplyDeleteThank you Helen. I really was inspired by my students' reactions to the live theatre. I'm sure you know how hard it is to engage second graders. I thought this video would inspire some great ideas to support the third network Provide Multiple Means of Engagement.
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