Scenario Response 7

The workshops on brain compatible teaching that my colleague and I attended was focused on Implementing Cognitive-Friendly Strategies to better engage our ELL students. We explored five major categories with examples for each category. My colleague and I worked together to develop the framework for observing his class.

 

Category One - Use of multisensory learning.

Elements to observe: 1) what visual aids does my colleague use when introducing vocabulary? 2) does he speak clearly and slowly enough so that his students grasp his meaning? 3) What hands-on activities (i.e. Use of learning stations) did he use to help his students? 4) How effective was the read out loud portion of class? Did the accompanying visual support make help the students make sense of the story? 

 

Category Two - engaging the students

Elements to observe: 1) was the lesson presented in segments (chunking) giving the student an opportunity engage in a meaningful discussion; and 2) how did the lesson incorporate the effective use of technology such as the SmartBoard or Chrome Books.   

 

Category Three - the classroom atmosphere.

Elements to observe: 1) do the visuals (posters, display of student work) and peripherals contribute to a safe and warm environment conducive to learning? and 2) does the seating format help the students engage with each in a collaborative manner? 

 

Category Four - scaffolding strategies

Elements to observe: 1) use of graphic organizers and/or note catchers to visually organize information; 2) use of the Think-Pair-Share method to facilitate greater comprehension; and 3) use of small group/whole group format.