Lesson Plan Review Paper

Lesson Plan Review of “Using the Parts of Speech Properly” The role of the classroom teacher has grown exponentially over the years. From the one-room school house with multiple grade levels taught at the same time to today’s classrooms full of children with a multitude of learning styles, cultures and individual needs. Due to the multitude of factors that the classroom teacher must address, the importance of careful and intentional planning of instruction is paramount. Without proper planning and consideration of the needs of each individual student, true and successful learning cannot occur. This careful, deliberate planning is strongly evident in Mrs. Torregrossa’s sixth-grade lesson plan, “Using the Parts of Speech Properly.” While no

Student collaboration is a powerful tool. Lucinda Spaulding and Jenny Sue Flannagan (2012) state in their article, “DISE2ECT”, that “students with learning challenges may struggle to complete higher order thinking problems on their own, but by working with a peer or small group, they can be successful” (p. 7). Student grouping is very evident in Mrs. Terregrossa’s lesson plan. In the practice section of the lesson, students work with a partner to complete a pair/check activity. The teacher also plans to use peer guidance for those students who need help with focus during the lesson. This is evident in the accommodations section of the lesson plan. The teacher has also intentionally planned for student feedback and assessment. During the introduction

Students have the opportunity to join in the class discussion by stating words to be placed on the board. They are asked to share their personal experience by talking about their weekend. They also have the opportunity to collaborate with classmates during the learning process. Spaulding and Flannagan (2012) state that, “cooperative learning is a great tool to ensure all students are active, engaged and communicating about the content” (p. 13). Not only does this lesson plan reflect strong student engagement, but allowing students to share personal experiences creates a culturally relevant classroom. Barzon, Osher, and Fleishman (2005) state in their article, “Research Matters/Creating a Culturally Responsive Schools,” that, “Ethnographic studies have demonstrated that culturally responsive education can strengthen student connectedness with schools, reduce behavior problems, and enhance learning” (p. 83-84). Materials used in the lesson, such as the verb cards for the verb wall, the pair/check worksheet activity, as well as student collaboration contribute to the success of the student. Not only does the lesson ensure student success but it is also emotionally safe. The teacher has made specific plans to include positive reinforcement for those students in need. The opportunity to work collaboratively and the opportunity to share personal experience while the teacher monitors responses