Udlcast Instructional Plan Analysis This Assignment P 745208
Udlcast Instructional Plan Analysisthis Assignment Provides The Opp
UDL/CAST Instructional Plan Analysis This assignment provides the opportunity for you to apply the principles of universal design for learning (UDL) in the design of instruction and assessment. Recall that UDL provides access to the curriculum for students with a wide variety of abilities and background. Therefore, UDL aligns with inclusionary practices found in today’s schools. Furthermore, assistive technology supports the UDL framework to provide a means of learning for students with disabilities. To prepare for this assignment, review the CAST (2010) video, UDL at a glance and review the Explore model UDL lesson plans (2011) web page, both of which are listed in the Week Three Required Resources.
Be sure to also review the Week Three Instructor Guidance page for additional intellectual elaboration on UDL and assistance with this assignment. Begin preparing for this assignment by selecting a specific model lesson from the Explore Model UDL Lesson Plans (2011) page of the CAST.org website. Analyze the lesson for the points described in the Content Instructions included with this assignment, below. Click on the “UDL Connections” buttons located at various points in the lesson to analyze how UDL principles have been integrated. Next, create your assignment to meet the content and written communication instructions below.
Use the Grading Rubric to review your assignment before submission to ensure you have met the distinguished performance for each of the components described below. For additional assistance with this assignment, review the Week Three Instructor Guidance page and, if needed, contact the instructor for further clarifications using the “Ask Your Instructor” discussion forum.
Content Instructions
a. Lesson Description (1 point): Include the title of the model lesson, the subject, and grade levels, and a one-paragraph introduction of the lesson.
b. Principle 1 (1 point): In one to three paragraphs, describe ways that multiple means of representation are included in the model lesson.
c. Principle 2 (1 point): In one-to-three paragraphs, describe ways that multiple means of action and expression are included in the model lesson.
d. Principle 3 (1 point): In one to three paragraphs, describe ways that multiple means of engagement are included in the model lesson.
e. Reflection (2 points): Close your essay with a personal reflection that addresses the following four areas:
- A description of at least two concepts or strategies from the lesson that serve as a means to motivate learners
- A description of how, overall, the lesson models differentiated instruction
- A discussion of how your understanding of and appreciation for instructional planning has changed as a result of your analysis
- At least one specific concept or strategy from the lesson that you would consider applying to your own practice and the potential impact it may have on the population you serve
Written Communication Instructions
a. Length Requirement (0.5 point): two single spaced page excluding the title and references pages.
b. Syntax and Mechanics (0.5 point): Display meticulous comprehension and organization of syntax and mechanics, such as spelling and grammar.
c. Source Requirement (0.5 point): Utilize at least two sources in addition to the model lesson plan and the Edyburn (2013) textbook. All sources on the references page need to be used and cited correctly within the body of the assignment.
d. APA Formatting (0.5 points): Use APA formatting consistently throughout the assignment. Refer to the Ashford University Writing Center for assistance with APA style and formatting or your copy of the APA Style Manual.
Paper For Above instruction
The selected model lesson for this analysis is titled "Exploring Photosynthesis" aimed at middle school science students, grade 7. The lesson introduces students to the process of photosynthesis through interactive activities, visual aids, and assessment tools. The lesson emphasizes understanding the significance of photosynthesis in plant life and its impact on the environment. This analysis evaluates how the lesson incorporates Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles to ensure accessible, engaging, and differentiated instruction conducive to diverse learners.
Principle 1: Multiple Means of Representation
The lesson integrates multiple means of representation effectively. Visual aids such as diagrams of the photosynthesis process help cater to visual learners, providing clear and accessible information (CAST, 2010). Additionally, the lesson incorporates auditory resources, including a narrated video explaining each step of photosynthesis. This addresses learners who benefit from auditory input and supports diverse ways of understanding the content. The lesson also uses physical models that allow students to manipulate representations of molecules involved in photosynthesis, fostering kinesthetic learning. By providing information through visual, auditory, and tactile modes, the lesson adheres to UDL's first principle and caters to students with different sensory learning preferences and needs.
Principle 2: Multiple Means of Action and Expression
The lesson promotes diverse ways for students to demonstrate their understanding of photosynthesis. Students can choose to compose a written explanation, create a visual poster, or record a short video presentation to illustrate their learning. Such options allow learners to leverage their strengths, whether they excel in writing, art, or oral expression. The lesson also includes interactive digital platforms where students can complete quizzes and simulations, enabling immediate feedback and self-assessment. These multiple avenues for action and expression align with UDL by providing flexibility and choice, essential for supporting students with varied expressive skills and preferences.
Principle 3: Multiple Means of Engagement
The lesson incorporates strategies to motivate and engage students through varied engagement methods. It begins with a provocative question: "How do plants make their food?" to stimulate curiosity. Additionally, students are encouraged to explore their interests by designing their own plant growth experiment or poster related to photosynthesis. The lesson also incorporates gamification elements—such as earning points for completing activities—enhancing motivation through competition and achievement. These strategies foster intrinsic motivation and cater to diverse interests, which is central to UDL's third principle of engagement.
Personal Reflection
Two strategies from the lesson that particularly motivate learners are the use of choice in demonstration methods and the integration of visual and interactive content. Offering students the option to express their understanding through writing, art, or digital media addresses different learning preferences and empowers them to engage more deeply. These approaches foster autonomy and relevance, motivating students to invest effort in their learning.
Overall, the lesson models differentiated instruction by providing multiple means of representation, action, and engagement, ensuring that learners with diverse abilities and preferences can access the content meaningfully. The varied options for demonstration and motivation, along with personalized activities, exemplify the adaptive and inclusive principles of differentiated instruction (Tomlinson, 2014).
Analyzing this lesson has deepened my appreciation for instructional planning that prioritizes accessibility, motivation, and student agency. I now recognize the importance of integrating flexible modes of learning and assessment to meet individual needs and foster equity in education. A specific strategy I would consider implementing is the use of multimodal assessment options, which can significantly enhance participation and expression for students with disabilities or learning difficulties. Applying this in my practice could create a more inclusive environment that values diverse ways of demonstrating understanding and supports all learners' success.
References
- CAST. (2010). Universal Design for Learning Guidelines version 2.0. Retrieved from https://www.udlcenter.org/sites/default/files/resource_files/UDL_Guidelines_English.pdf
- Edyburn, D. L. (2013). Critical issues in advancing the universal design of technology. Assistive Technology, 25(4), 228-236.
- Tomlinson, C. A. (2014). The Differentiated Classroom: Responding to the Needs of All Learners (2nd ed.). ASCD.
- National Research Council. (2012). Learning to Read and Write: Developmentally Appropriate Practices for Young Children. National Academies Press.
- Rose, D. H., & Meyer, A. (2002). Teaching Every Student in the Digital Age: Universal Design for Learning. ASCD.
- Hitchcock, C., Meyer, A., Rose, D., & Jackson, R. (2002). Providing new access to the curriculum: Universal Design for Learning. Teaching Exceptional Children, 35(2), 8-17.
- Pisha, B., & Coyne, P. (2001). Classwide Instructional Design: A Universal Design for Learning Approach. Journal of the Association for Persons with Severe Handicaps, 26(3), 171-182.
- Fletcher, J. M., & Shaw, R. (2010). Evidence-Based Practice and the Response to Intervention Model. Topics in Language Disorders, 30(3), 226-242.
- Meo, G. (1999). The Integrated Curriculum: Disciplined by the Student. Phi Delta Kappan, 81(3), 183-188.
- Yell, M. L. (2015). The Legal Rights of Students with Disabilities. Pearson.