9/19/2019
Topic:
Students with Disabilities
Mary McGinley
|
A few years ago I had a student who was missing his right hand. We were playing recorders that year, so we had a discussion about how he wanted to be the most successful. We made sure that all the songs he was to play were playable with four fingers and the thumb, so he was still able to participate with his peers. While he did have some difficulties, he appreciated being able to play the recorder and not feel singled out/different from his classmates. |
9/27/2019
Topic:
Tools and Strategies
Mary McGinley
|
One strategy I can use in my classroom is peer partnering. I frequently do group projects in my classroom. Students with disabilities are integrated in all groups. They are able to receive help from their peers, and I am able to cycle through the classroom to give additional supports.
Another strategy I use in my classroom is learning centers. When I work on recorder karate, I have the students in groups practicing different skills around the room. This allows my students time to focus on tasks that may be more difficult for them. My students with disabilities get additional time to work on these skills that they may otherwise not perform well. They also are able to work with their classmates in a quieter, small setting, which could be more comfortable. |
9/27/2019
Topic:
Assessment of Learning
Mary McGinley
|
Working with a student with down syndrome, our 4th grade class was working on reading music, preparing for recorder. The assignment was to write the note name underneath the note on the staff. Working with his paraprofessional, we had him color code the notes. He colored all Cs red, Ds orange, etc. He was able to achieve success with the coloring and para assistance. |