How Inclusive is Your Classroom?

Classroom Inclusivity Assessment

Question 1 of 12

Selecting Group Sizes for Co-Teaching

Welcome to our Quick Decision Group Size Selector activity for co-teachers! In the next 2-3 minutes, you'll practice choosing optimal group sizes for different classroom scenarios, considering factors like space, materials, and learning objectives. Each scenario presents a unique teaching situation, and your task is to select the most effective group size while keeping in mind that 2-3 students work best for intensive practice, 3-4 for collaborative learning, and 4-5 for project-based activities.

Group Size Selector Activity

Scenario 1:

Students need to practice new vocabulary words through conversation.

Space: Small reading corner

Materials: Vocabulary flashcards, one set per pair

Scenario 2:

Students will work together to solve complex word problems in math.

Space: Regular classroom desks

Materials: Whiteboards, markers, task sheets

Scenario 3:

Teams will create a video presentation about their ecosystem research.

Space: Library media center

Materials: Tablets, poster boards, research materials

Transform Your Teaching with Expert Support Services

Are you looking to create more inclusive learning environments in your school or organization? Do the teachers in your district need a mentor, coach, or thought-partner to guide their inclusive practice? 

Nicole Eredics, M.Ed. (Special Education), is a Board Certified Inclusion Specialist with a wealth of experience as a full inclusion classroom teacher. She offers customized support through virtual and live events, one-to-one mentoring, and professional training sessions. Nicole provides educators with practical, research-based strategies and tools that can be implemented immediately to foster inclusion. 

Let Nicole help you transform your practice with proven methods that promote an inclusive, supportive learning experience for all students. Visit www.nicoleeredics.com to find out how you can work with Nicole.

Unlocking Achievement Through Curriculum Modifications: A Path to Inclusive Education

Curriculum modifications play a pivotal role in ensuring that every student, regardless of their unique needs and abilities, has the opportunity to thrive academically and socially. In an educational landscape that seeks to foster inclusivity, equity, and individualized learning, understanding and implementing curriculum modifications have never been more critical. 

These modifications bridge the gap between students who may struggle with grade-level content and the broader educational objectives. They represent a powerful tool to transform accessibility into achievement, allowing educators to tailor their teaching approaches to cater to a diverse range of learners. 

There is a simple method for unlocking academic achievement in the general education curriculum for students with disabilities. Start with the grade-level lesson and then make adaptations in one (or more) ways:

• Content: Teach grade-level lessons and adapt the content to align to the student's interests and developmental stage.

• Instructional Method: Teach grade-level lessons and provide an instructional approach that is more appropriate to the student's ability level.

• Conceptual Difficulty: Teach grade-level lessons and reduce the complexity of the lesson to align with the student's range of comprehension.

• Educational Goals: Teach grade-level lessons and adapt the learning outcomes of the lesson to align with the student's IEP.

Some examples of curriculum modifications include:

• A fifth-grade student could learn about plant growth by planting a seed and observing its development over time, rather than delving into the plant's cellular functions.

• The text in a class novel can be changed to better suit the reading level of the student. Use resources such as Newsela, chatgpt, or the Sherlock Center.

• A grade-level math worksheet on fractions can be altered to teach number identification, addition, subtraction, or sequencing. Use resources such as SnapType to make quick, easy adjustments.

• A grade-level lecture on cell-biology can be delivered via a list of developmentally appropriate FAQs. Use resources such as Curipod to create engaging instructional methods.

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2. For more ideas and strategies to modify curriculum, check out, Inclusion in Action: Practical Strategies to Modify Curriculum or bring me to your school!