Annotations: This class profile demonstrates knowledge of the importance of understanding students' characteristics, diverse backgrounds and individual learning needs (focus areas 1.1.1, 1.2.1 and 1.3.1) in order to differentiate learning experiences (focus area 1.5.1), and support students' participation and safety (focus areas 4.1.1 and 4.4.1)
Justification - Sample 1
Standard 1: 1.1.1, 1.2.1, 1.3.1 and 1.5.1 The achievement of Standards in the Professional Knowledge domain requires the development of a body of knowledge that considers students’ backgrounds and individual characteristics (Weatherby-Fell, 2015, Kindle Location 7325). This class profile was developed during week 2 of the EPT330 placement, to assist with identifying students’ intellectual, social and personal characteristics and how these impact teaching and learning in the classroom. In particular, students with a language background other than English were identified, in addition to students who require various assistance. Students with significant emotional and social needs and characteristics were also noted to support the organisation of the classroom as an efficient learning environment. As an understanding of the characteristics and learning needs of students provides teachers with vital information for designing effective and inclusive learning experiences (Whitton, Barker, Nosworthy, Humphries & Sinclair, 2016, p. 222), a class profile is an appropriate strategy for achieving focus areas 1.1.1, 1.2.1, 1.3.1 and 1.5.1.
Standard 4: 4.1.1 and 4.4.1 The information contained in the class profile is valuable when designing and integrating strategies for inclusion in the classroom. Teachers are able to increase students’ sense of belonging and socio-emotional wellbeing through respectful and fair classroom interactions (Whitton, et al, 2016, p. 248). Positive teacher-student relationships and a positive classroom climate that supports students’ sense of safety and belonging may be developed through consideration of students' unique characteristics, background and learning needs (Kivunja, 2014, p. 55-59). In the class profile, features of students’ backgrounds and emotional needs are noted, in addition to particular social and personal characteristics that may impact the learning environment.