2/20/2020
Topic:
Students with Disabilities
Beth Zerkowski
|
I have several students throughout my classes that experience significant issues with attention and anxiety. In fact, my own son has great struggles with both issues. Foremost, I find that the lower school music room is a safe space for many of these students. I attempt to keep the activities varied and interactive. The challenge with this is to not let the atmosphere become chaotic - only creative! |
2/20/2020
Topic:
Tools and Strategies
Beth Zerkowski
|
I am in the unique role of being both the technology teacher and music teacher in a lower school (K-5) setting. These roles are taught and assessed separately, but it does allow me to feel comfortable with using technology. In order to assess quickly and efficiently, I often use oral review of the subject. I mix calling on volunteers and selecting a student and providing them the feedback they need to answer. However, students with attention issues sometimes feel anxious in this setting. Therefore, I also offer web based games/assessments on the topic of the day. This allows me to have ongoing assessment and know whether the instruction has led to comprehension. |
2/20/2020
Topic:
Assessment of Learning
Beth Zerkowski
|
I had a student with significant hearing loss. She truly enjoyed singing but needed assistance hearing the pitch. Fortunately, her family had the means to provide her with all necessary medical supports. Therefore, my main strategy was to allow her to be close enough to the instruments to sense and "hear" them. With that small accommodation, she was able to flourish. In addition, I encouraged her to share her communication skills in ASL. This allowed her to bring a piece of herself into the spotlight with great pride! |