Taylor Locke

Wed, Apr 15, 2020 9:25 PM
Adaptations for Survival

I chose this article based on its diversity. This article took the concept of adaptations for survival and applied it to grades K-5. Any elementary teacher can take this article and apply it into their classroom. It also gives a detailed 5E for each level as well. This article taught me how to conduct outdoor investigations in a meaningful way. For example, TEKS K.10D: observe changes that are part of a simple life cycle of a plant: seed, seedling, plant, flower, and fruit. TEKS K.10D would allow me to investigate the life cycle of a seed and seedling with my class. I do have questions, however, on how to run a successful, organized investigation outside with a group of Kindergarten students. How would I keep everything regimented but allow for growth and independence?

Wed, Apr 15, 2020 9:10 PM
"A" is for Assessment

This article is fantastic and very informative, especially for new teachers. The article goes into detail over the three types of assessment: preassessment, formative, and summative. I appreciate the fact that this article offered different views and ideas of assessment. For example, the article listed drawing and journals as a form of assessment. These are nontraditional methods that may be more beneficial for different students. I learned that there are many other strategies for assessment such as graphic organizers, comparing and contrasting activities, dramatic representations, and individual interviews. A variety of TEKS can be used in correlation with this article. For example, TEKS 1.2D: record and organize data using pictures, numbers, and words. I would use this as a formative or summative assessment. Hopefully it would be a less stressful way for my students to be assessed and would allow my students to work with a variety of resources. Based on my experience, I agree with the article's stance that students should be offered a variety of assessment strategies to better accommodate each student and their individual needs.

Wed, Apr 15, 2020 9:08 PM
Layer-Cake Earth

I chose this article because of how dynamic and well-rounded it was. The article included an activity, instructions on how to conduct an investigation, concepts, and charts that could be used for assessment purposes. The article relates science to students’ everyday life through the usage of an actual cake. In my opinion, it is extremely important to relate learning to real life experiences. This article taught me how to incorporate these real-life experiences into my classroom. For example, TEKS 5.8D: identify and compare the physical characteristics of the Sun, Earth, and Moon. I could use this information in my classroom by planning a fun activity for students to explore fossils and layers of the earth. I agree with creating learning opportunities that relate to students’ lives.