EDSS 541 Reading #1

Reading Response #1

                Although each of these groups in which we need to close the achievement gap go far beyond under and over achievers, the research methods of successful practice and instructional strategies are effectively the same approach in respect to each group. It is important to teach each student as an individual and each of these groupings a more advanced knowledge of their unique differences and contributions as a whole. The first step in closing the various gaps is to find and acknowledge the various stereotypes that are in place. These preconceived notions can be very harmful to both the students and the instruction. When you approach any instructional strategy are a catch all there will be many who slip through the net. Most of the proven effective methods involve supporting each of the diverse groups and how their identified culture has contributed to the greater whole. It is important to have each student be comfortable with who they are and have a sense of pride in what they themselves can accomplish.  Another proven way in which instructors can close the gap is to have high expectations for all of their students even though each student will have natural talents and interests in different subjects.

 Differentiation is the greatest tool that we can use to help all of our students and it takes work and insight on our part. The classroom must be a place of knowledge, goals, and personal discovery. In order to foster such an environment we must structure our curriculum to celebrate everyone and teach in such ways in which we all learn, students and instructors.