The artifact in this ePortfolio is a detailed lesson plan designed for a 5th-grade math block. The objective of the lesson is to engage students in finding the area of rectangles with fractional side lengths, multiplying mixed numbers, calculating the volume of right rectangular prisms, and categorizing two-dimensional figures in a hierarchy based on their attributes. To facilitate collaboration and active learning, students will be able to work in pairs and small groups. Students will be able to work through the problems, check their work, and collaborate as a team. This lesson plan is designed to foster critical thinking, cooperative learning, and problem-solving skills. I believe that this artifact aligns with Standard #7 – Planning for Instruction: The teacher draws upon knowledge of content areas, cross-disciplinary skills, learners, the community, and pedagogy to plan instruction that supports every student in meeting rigorous learning goals. As well as Standard #6, the teacher understands and uses multiple methods of assessment to engage learners in their own growth, to document learner progress, and to guide the teacher’s ongoing planning and instruction.
This past semester, I’ve been able to complete my fieldwork in a 5th-grade classroom at CK Burns School in Saco, during their math block. I was able to complete 2 different lesson plans, and then further teach them to the class. Overall, working in this classroom has given me a hands-on experience in a 5th-grade classroom, while observing and participating in the math block has allowed me to see how to differentiate instruction for diverse learners and use effective strategies to engage students. Working in small groups has improved my ability to tailor my teaching approaches to meet individual needs. Moving forward, I feel more confident in my ability to implement these strategies and adapt to various teaching situations to become a more effective educator.
