EDPE 3100 (Humble Beginnings)
EDPE 3100 was a great experience where I created my first ever lesson plan. Reflecting back, it was truly something to marvel at (it was terrible) but it certainly marked the beginning of my journey in the BEd program. Through coursework, practicum and constructive feedback, I have grown so much. Each misstep became an opportunity for growth, and through this experience I was able to tighten up my lesson plans through this newly developed intrinsic knowledge. I’ve been able to embrace new strategies and techniques to find methods that suit my style and gone through the iterative process of improvement. As I look back on EDPE 3100 first lesson plan, I am proud of how fair I have come and I am excited about the continuous growth and reflection awaiting me over the next year.
EDMA 3100 (Rich Task)
EDMA 3100 was another valuable experience, especially regarding the Rich Task lesson we had to create. Rich Tasks, by design should be low floor, high ceiling activities. This provided me with an understanding of how vital these tasks can be when it comes to teaching and learning math. The lesson’s design allowed for inclusivity, ensuring that all students regardless of ability could engage meaningfully in the task. Designing a lesson that is naturally inclusive for all is certainly challenging but a valuable challenge. Creating a lesson that provided ample opportunities for extension and enrichment is imperative to me. Moving forward I hope to incorporate other rich tasks that offer multiple entry points in math and every other subject. Inclusivity is important to me and I hope to create an inclusive, stimulating learning environment. EDMA 3100 provided me with this opportunity to explore this type of learning.
EDSO 3200 (Place Based)
EDSO 3200 provided me with a brief look into Land Based Pedagogy and gave early insights to planning a meaningful field trip for my class. Choosing a location that is relevant to the curriculum, for student exploration engaged me in thoughtful consideration of cultural, environmental and educational significance. The assignment highlighted the importance of place-based learning and perhaps the potential for students to connect their learning to their personal lives. For myself, the brief planning process showed some logistical considerations I needed to take place. How many parent volunteers will I need, what time of year are we going, how will we get there, snakes… (my location had rattlesnake dens nearby). This experience emphasized the significance of experiential learning, connection to nature or surrounding, local areas and the understanding of Indigenous perspectives. As I reflect on this assignment, I recognize the role it played in shaping my approach and understanding of Land-Based pedagogy and how to incorporate it in my future teaching practice.