Practicum e-Portfolio
TQS 2
My Goals
Professional Semester 1
Throughout my first practicum worked towards accomplishing 2 main goals; to provide variety in my instruction to benefit diverse learning needs , and to create memorable learning moments for the students and for myself.
Goal #1 ~ Using a Variety of Instructional Strategies to Benefit Diverse Learning Needs
TQS 3 ~ My goal as a practicum student is to incorporate a variety of learning strategies that engage and support the diverse needs of all students in the classroom. I plan to use visual, auditory, and kinesthetic approaches to ensure that each learner can access and connect with the material in meaningful ways. By differentiating instruction, offering choice, and integrating technology or hands-on activities, I will create an inclusive environment that values multiple ways of learning. I also aim to observe and reflect on which strategies are most effective for different students and adapt my teaching accordingly. Ultimately, my goal is to help every student feel seen, capable, and motivated to succeed through intentional, varied, and responsive teaching practices.
​~
During my teaching practicum in the Stirling School, I incorporated a wide range of instructional and assessment strategies to engage students and support diverse learning needs. I integrated virtual simulators and hands-on experiments to help students connect abstract concepts to real-world applications. Additionally, I used gallery walks, Kahoot and Blooket games, and various puzzles to promote active learning and increase motivation. I also utilized slightly modified worksheets and materials for students with various levels of comprehension to ensure accessibility, build confidence, and strengthen their understanding of key concepts.
Goal #2 ~ Create Memorable Learning Experiences
TQS 3 & TQS 4 ~ As a practicum student, I aim to prioritize creating memorable learning experiences by designing lessons that are engaging, relevant, and connected to students’ real-world interests. I will incorporate interactive activities, hands-on learning, and opportunities for creativity to make concepts come alive in meaningful ways. By fostering curiosity and joy in learning, I hope to leave students with experiences that inspire confidence, critical thinking, and a lasting love for learning.
​~
My Grade 5 class loved hands on learning and anything that I could do to make them laugh or smile. We had a class mascot that was a little monster stuck to the back of my laptop, this monster quickly became a symbol I used in examples to teach Mass, Volume, and Density. The monster also became a symbol on maps highlighting the locations of Ancient Civilizations in social studies. At first, I didn't realize that this was aiding in their retention of the information but thought of it more-so as an engagement strategy, but soon students were answering questions with answers like "Well that is where Mesopotamia is because Jimmy Neutron was there on the map yesterday!". My classroom management strategy also utilized this little monster! My Grade 5 students learned through humour and conversation, making the occasional "6-7" reference would re-engage any students whose focus may have wandered without needing much redirection. A variety of tools, mnemonic devices, and activities such as virtual simulations, songs, silly acronyms, or movement around the room further created moments where students were enjoying the process. Thus remembering it more so as an experience rather than a lesson.