Our mission for our 21st century chat is to create a positive 21st century learning environment for our students by sharing resources and ideas that has worked in our classrooms. Join us every Sunday from 8:00-9:00 PM (EST) on Twitter using the hashtag #21stedchat. All are welcome!
Welcome to #21stedchat tonight we will be discussing Accommodations and Differentiation. @Edu_Thompson will be the co-host and RT'er. Please introduce yourselves. Name, Grade/Subject, Location.
Hello! Kristin, HS English in NC! Back after taking a break from chats for awhile. :)
Watching Olympics & doing laundry at the same time, might be a little slow tonight!
#21stedchat
A1. I don't believe that accommodations should be phased out as a whole. Accommodations should be used to level the playing field so if they are needed, they should be available. #21stedchat
A1: Depends on the S. When the learner no longer needs them, it's appropriate to phase out. & as a T of older Ss, if they don't receive accommodations for college board exams, we should work to help Ss deal with that as well.
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A1. I don't believe you should phase it out if it is something they need. I have adults that need accommodations to help them in the workplace and they have masters degrees, I know I need accommodations on somethings too bc I don't have everything mastered. #21stedchat
A1: Accommodations are if the S needs them. However, accomm are also best practices of teaching & any S should be able to have accomm if they need them #21stedchat
A1. As long as high stakes testing plays a role in education, accommodations will be used no matter the age. Ultimately, we must ensure the accommodations create equity. #21stedchat
A1. Accommodations could only be phased out if we could count on every teacher doing whatever it takes for every child to succeed. Until then they are needed. #21stedchat
A1: Completely eradicating accommodations could hurt some students that need them, which is unfair to them. Although we should look carefully at the student to see what they actually need #21stedchat#eci201
The theme I'm seeing in several answers to Q1 is that it really depends on individual student needs. I totally agree! One size doesn't fit all.
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A1: Here is my concern as a teacher of 11-12 graders headed to the world of work. What do they do when there are none out there? How do help them help themselves? #21stedchat
A1: Phasing out accommodations should be done on a case by case basis. At the high school level the student should be engaged in that decision which will improve student self-efficacy #21stedchat
This is a great point. It's important to teach students how to self-advocate and strategies to use to help themselves when the accommodations aren't there.
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A1: I believe accommodations should not be phased out unless a student is not using the accommodations. Accommodations are to help a students have equal access to learning. This is why students should be evaluated frequently for revision of accommodations. #21stedchat
A1 @dprindle Think about it, how many real world jobs deal with issues that we accommodate for? As previously stated, some accommodations are definitely made, but how may tests do we take in the workforce? #21stedchat#wctlp
A1. As long as high stakes testing plays a role in education, accommodations will be used no matter the age. Ultimately, we must ensure the accommodations create equity. #21stedchat
A1: This is an iffy topic. Phasing out has to be on an individual basis. As stated by @loliveira55 - every teacher needs to be doing whatever it takes for that child to succeed IF accomodations were to be phased out. #21stedchat
A2: I have a few students who refuse to use the accommodations recommended for them. It's frustrating because they don't see the need or feel embarrassed by them. I encourage them to take advantage but ultimately it's their choice.
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A2: We need to teach young students how to take advantage of the accommodations that they have access to. If they see the benefit, they will hopefully be more invested in using them. As they get older, they should be involved in deciding if they are still needed. #21stedchat
How about tests of basic skills in Math, English etc. but don't define students by a number? Students define themselves by these. They hurt them. #21stedchat
A2: In some instances, Ss aren't even aware that they have them, or what they mean. In other instances, Ss feel that the classroom culture they're in would allow them to feel secluded and different. It has to start with US. #21stedchat
A2: I see this a lot at the elementary level and it’s unfortunate, but often it’s because they don’t understand how using the accommodation could benefit them #21stedchat
A2: If the students choose NOT to use them, that is on them. There are times it is an embarrassment and we need to assist with that. Otherwise, it is their choice. If they continue to not use them, phase the out. #21stedchat
A2: I see this a lot at the elementary level and it’s unfortunate, but often it’s because they don’t understand how using the accommodation could benefit them #21stedchat
Q2: This should be an open conversation between the teacher and the student. The teacher should try and encourage students to use the help they need. Many students are embarrassed or think their "not cool" with an accommodation #21stedchat#eci201
A2: With the 11-12 graders, their input is critical. If they do not want the accommodations we should listen. But we need to have consistent discussions about their performance as well as evaluate the data to assess the impact. #21stedchat
A2 Ss need to have their accommodations explained to them at the beginning of each year/semester in a clear and concise manner. They also need help understanding that the purpose for these acc. is to help them attain proficiency/mastery of a skill #21stedchat#wctlp
I also get the reverse. Why can't someone read the test to me? Especially those that are classified "low achieving low" that don't get them. #21stedchat
But it is important to teach them how to use the accommodations properly before phasing them out. If students understand the why, they be more invested in using them. #21stedchat
A2. We must create the conditions in which students are comfortable. Students need to know how the accommodations benefit them and provide them an accepting environment. Ultimately, however, it’s the student’s choice. #21stedchat
A2 That often happens at the HS level. Ts need to have a conversation with the Ss and parents and try to come to a reasonable solution. The IEPs and 504s are legal documents and have to be followed. Revision is an option. #21stedchat
A2: I see a lot of students who do not use all of their accommodations in HS. They are also a part of the discussion when reviewing IEPs and 504s in our district. However, I believe we need to help our students advocate for their learning once they get to HS. #21stedchat
A3: Differentiation is a way to provide everyone with a point of access into the learning. Some Ss will need more scaffolds than others to learn the content. Yes! Differentiation is needed in every class. #21stedchat
A3: Differentiation is being able to individually target instruction to Ss & scaffold them along the way. Absolutely it's needed in every class. Our kids are different & we must embrace that. If we expect them to be divergent thinkers we can't put them inside a box. #21stedchat
A3: differentiation is meeting each student where they are. differentiating does need to happen in every class. I have yet to see a class that all the Ss are working at the same level. #21stedchat
A3: Differentiation is the ability to meet the needs of all students. I think it the backbone of every successful classroom. We need to push every student to meet their individualized potential #blendedlearning#masterybased#21stedchat
A3: Differentiation can happen multiple ways- content, process, product. It's essential in the classroom in order to reach every student, but very hard to do well, and can be overwhelming!
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A3 Differentiation is providing opportunities for Ss to complete tasks according to their strengths and preferences. Giving the Ss choices. #21stedchat
A3: Student choice is a great way to differentiate and let students shine with their own strengths. I also used Google Classroom and could assign different activities to different students as needed. #21stedchat
A3: Differentiation is needed in every classroom! It is providing the same information multiple ways to best help the students in the classroom. All students do not learn the same and some could take longer to learn the topic. #21stedchat#eci201
A3. Differentiation is meeting the needs of all students, ensuring each individual can be successful. Some Ss need more time, more help, etc. This is needed in all classes. If our goal in PE is to have students run/walk a mile, some will need more time, help, etc. #21stedchat
Differentiation is modifying your methods and measurements to meet the needs of each learner in the room. And yes, it is a must, but we don't see enough of it, because it is hard. #21stedchat
A3: Differentiation is meeting the needs of all learners and giving them the tools necessary to succeed. As a teacher of Algebra 1, I believe it is needed. If I did not differentiate my lessons, not every student will have the foundation to learn more. #21stedchat
A4: Small group instruction while other Ss are working on independent tasks related to the level they are at/striving for. We also have a 30 min block called flex grouping where we share kids across 4th grade based on need for intervention. #21stedchat
A4: I use Google Classroom and can assign varied activities. I also use Google Forms for quick assessments. With only 3-4 questions, I can give them a link to an activity based upon which questions they missed. #21stedchat
A4: With a high percentage of ELLs at my school, we differentiate a lot by providing language supports. You may also allow Ss to use manipulatives while others don't. Or preteach a concept so Ss feel more comfortable when it is taught to the entire class. #21stedchat
A4. By learning standard and based on their data. Its a misconception that there are only 30 in ES as I taught 5th grade math and had over 150. #21stedchat
A4: Student choice whenever possible, flexible grouping, varying assessment type, varying instructional delivery (not all at once, but I try to hit at least one every week). It's never as much as I want.
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A4. As an administrator, I see my elementary teachers do this wonderfully. Using centers with differing difficulty of task and a teacher assistant used for remediation, I see all students engaged and pushed. #21stedchat
I teach my class through self made videos. This allows students to work at their own pace and frees me up to engage in small group/individual instruction. Most importantly, students do not move forward until they have proven mastery on the previous lesson. #21stedchat
a4 My Ss have access to learning thru group inquiry, direct instruction closings, video, & text hints in Khan Academy. The only barrier is how much time the S is able & willing to invest. #21stedchat
A4 I teach ELs so differentiation is the norm in my classes. Ss are at different levels of language acquisition. I use tools such as @Newsela for differentiated reading levels and @Flipgrid for oral practice. #21stedchat
A4: I do quick assessments and group students by placing color tiles on their desk to pair them up into new groups. At this point I can have conversations about misconception or challenge students to a new level of problem. I also do a lot of small group instruction. #21stedchat
So important for students to learn to advocate for their needs. Technology allows us to provide resources/ accommodations to more students, but they sometimes have to pursue them of their own accord. #21stedchat
Multiple sections, I had between 30-32 Ss per class #21stedchat I also taught 8th grade as well. My point is that there is a misconception a lot of times that it is easier to differentiate in ES and that is not the case as they also have more things to prep for w/ lesson planning
Q5: We discussed differentiation and accommodation to reach all students. What about the small percentage that don't want to be reached or won't do the work? #21stedchat How do we reach all 100%?
A5: Knowing that their battles are different. We may not be trying to reach to them in terms of instruction. One Ss goal may be just having a growth mindset and an "I can do this" attitude. Everyone has to start somewhere. #21stedchat
Q5: We discussed differentiation and accommodation to reach all students. What about the small percentage that don't want to be reached or won't do the work? #21stedchat How do we reach all 100%?
So true! It is so difficult to have different technology expectations for students in the same class, but students’ self-regulation does present issues. Unfortunately, I usually end up having to limit more than I’d like #21stedchat
Agreed and you're so right. I know Es Ss who switched classes starting in 2nd grade. Gave those Ts 50+ students, 2 grades / week per child / subject. #21stedchat (I figured it was multiple sections but some places in the world do things slightly different than here) .
A5. I believe in all students and it is about finding out what works best for them and motivates them. #21stedchat To often teachers 'give up' on them. #21stedchat
A5: This is a challenge, but it is our responsibility to do everything in our power to reach each student. Giving up on a student is not an option. #21stedchat
A5. We have had success instituting a “No Opt Out” policy. Meaning, Ss do not get the choice of not doing the work. Ss that fail to participate must stay after school or other inconvenient times to complete tasks. Parents appreciate it and success is an expectation. #21stedchat
A5: We do the best we can. The ones you are speaking of obviously have OTHER issues and could possibly benefit from a strong mentor/counselor. Those are the ones that need us the most. Relationships can mean more than accommodations. #21stedchat
Q5: I just have to do my best with each class that walks through my door, while accepting that I am not a savior. I don't give up--but I have to acknowledge that even with my best I might not "reach" them all. Have to trust that something I did made an impact.
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A5: I think it’s all about building relationships and getting to know the students so we can reach them and they will want to work for us and with us #21stedchat
A5: Trying to reach all students can be very difficult. Getting to know the students background will help you connect with them. After you have this trust then open the conversation about accommodations that would help the student #21stedchat#eci201
a5 If a S truly understand the importance & still won't work, I start looking into emotional concerns or extraordinary demands on their time. #21stedchat
Q6: This is a pretty awesome group of caring thoughtful teachers tonight. What are your takeaways from #21stedchat tonight and those you have interacted with tonight?
A5: Relationships, relationships, relationships. Sometimes it just takes an adult having an authentic conversation with a reluctant student to help turn them around. I'd also say that by continuing to try new things in class you can find new ways to reach them! #21stedchat
A6. Our jobs are not easy. We must continue to rely on one another. These meaningful conversations, although the benefit is, ultimately benefit the students. We should never stop discussing the issues we all face. #21stedchat
A5: I currently have a small class created to help this group of students. The biggest thing is building a relationship with them and getting to know them but not giving up. They maybe can't learn today bc of an at home situation but there is tomorrow to try again. #21stedchat
Our academic lab (for SpEd only) and advisory programs (for all freshmen) does some great work to teach advocacy- but more deliberate instruction on “how” & “when” to advocate is needed. #21stedchat
A6: If a teacher knows how to reach a student, they will do all they can. Sometimes, it takes longer than a class period/school year so we all have to work together to make sure we reach them all.#21stedchat
Those with tough home lives (or other limitations) often need to be challenged in class more - not with unnecessary work - but with things that will help them in long run. #21stedchat
In reply to
@kobriengcs, @MrsGuerrero307, @davestuartjr
Thanks for another great #21stedchat ! @Edu_Thompson and I can't do it without you. Join us next week when @Edu_Thompson discusses Digital Citizenship...CIPA, COPPA, FERPA...OH My! At 8 PM ET US Sunday.
A6 Most Ts do whatever it takes to help their students. Keep doing what you do best. Thanks for your thoughtful sharing. We are #BetterTogether#21stedchat
