field experience

Order Instructions

Most special educators are required to differentiate reading and writing instruction for students across different skill levels, often in the same classroom. Being experienced with a variety of differentiation strategies will make such instructional planning easier, and students are more likely to be successful. In a middle school or high school setting, it is particularly important that age and developmental level are addressed; students’ interests are often more aligned to their age and same-age peers, rather than their academic level.

Allocate 3 hours in the field to support this field experience.

Observe, interview, and collaborate with the mentor teacher, who currently teaches English language arts in a high school (Grades 9-12) inclusive, resource, or self-contained setting, during at least two different ELA lessons.

During your observations, make note of the following:

Reading and writing strategies

Strategies specific to adolescent students

How instruction is differentiated to meet individual student needs

Instructional methods

Student groupings during instruction

Informal assessments that are used

Reading materials and genresIn 250-500 words, summarize and reflect upon your interview, observations, and instructional support. Discuss which methods and strategies best met the needs of the students. Explain how you will use your findings in your future professional practice.

Use any remaining field experience hours to assist the teacher in providing instruction and support to the class.

APA format is not required, but solid academic writing is expected.

This assignment uses a rubric. Review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.

You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. A link to the LopesWrite technical support articles is located in Course Materials if you need assistance.

Document the locations and hours you spend in the field on your Clinical Field Experience Verification Form.