Examination

Looking at the CREDE web site, I realize that I am effectively implementing some of their standards, but that I need to work on others. I do try very hard to facilitate joint productive activities (Standard 1) where my students work together on projects. Even when they have individual projects to complete, I allow them to assist each other as much as I reasonably can. Sometimes I do need to assess their ability to complete a project on their own.

Standard 2, language development, is one that I implement in a rather hit-and-miss fashion. I am conscious of allowing wait time for my students, and this gives my ELLs time to form their responses. However, I struggle with allowing my kids opportunities to talk in my room. There is some communication going on as they seek help and assist one another, but I don’t think I have the type of conversations going on that CREDE is suggesting. Because I only see my student for one hour a week, time management is crucial. I must ensure that they are on task. This also goes over to CREDE standard 5, instructional conversation. It is hard for me to allow the students to talk at higher rates than I do, because we don’t have time for anyone to talk too much. My class is project driven, not discussion based. I give a mini lesson on new material, we discuss it very briefly, I give instructions, and then the students work on the project. My students demonstrate their understanding by doing. If they are unable to do, then I work with them individually. It is all very fast paced.

If I look at the 5Rs and T, however, would say that my personal theory (the T) is very good. I believe that with the proper scaffolding, all of my students can complete any of the assignments I will give them in the computer lab. Some of my students will finish faster and have more sophisticated projects, and some students will require extra help, but most of them enjoy the computer lab and they can all finish their tasks.