My Diversity Practicum Task

Proposed Diverse Practicum:

Observe an English Language Learning small group, pull- out classroom. The small group classrooms will be skill groups with 1^st graders, 2^nd graders, and a combination of 1^st and 2^nd graders.

Diverse Practicum Purpose and Goals:

During this practicum, my goal is to learn about additional teaching methods to instruct students with limit understanding of the English language. This experience will add to my professional growth, by allowing me to understand student backgrounds and use effective methods to enhance student learning in my special education program. I have a few students in my special education program, where English is their second language. By observing in a fully immersed ELL classroom, I hope to gain knowledge for teaching English to my students in order to help make academic growth.  

Rationale for Practicum Selection:

I decided to observe an ELL program, because this is an area in my school district that I know little about and have little experience in. In my educational career, I taught in the general education setting as well as special education setting. Being able to experience a pull-out ELL classroom will help me grow professional and understand the ELL program. Personally, I would like to be able to reach out to families that are new to America. I am sure that moving to a different country can be overwhelming and frightening. By observing a small amount of what the ELL teachers in my school do on a daily basis, would help me understand family cultures and embrace their differences. Professionally, I will learn about alternate teaching programs that I might be able to use in my classroom. I will learn additional teaching strategies to help students understand curriculum and the English language.

Action Plan:

1.      Observe ELL teacher instructing her small groups.

2.      During my observation, I will be taking notes about instructional methods, students’ engagement, and individual student abilities.

3.      For first part of the field experience, I will observe the teacher interacting with her students and participate periodically.

4.      For the last part of the field experience, I will be planning curriculum with ELL teacher, discussing strategies, and teaching the students.

5.      Before and after the lesson, I will collaborate with the ELL teacher to discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the lesson, in order to adjust my teaching for the next day.

I will collaborate with the ELL teacher to compile a list of helpful instructional methods and strategies, as well as ways to involve and stay connected with families.