Standard 7: Instructional Strategies
means to me...
Funds-Of-Knowledge
Integrating students funds-of-knowledge into curriculum helps students to relate to new skills being taught. Students will find relevance in school work if the can build skills to apply and extend their knowledge in meaningful ways that relate to their lives. The easiest strategy to incorporate funds-of-knowledge into lessons is to allow students to be the facilitators, share their stories, and invite their families into the classroom.
Realia
Surrender to your intelligence
Realia, objects or materials used in everyday life, is a must in any lesson when teaching English language learners. Realia should be a must in all lesson though. Students love getting their hands on materials that relate to what they are learning in school. Hands-on experiences help the brain to connect new information with prior knowledge and engages students in lessons.
Plan lessons that teach to more than one of the multiple intelligences. As an elementary teacher the days are long and remember that we are teaching children and they need to get up and move about every 45 minutes. Incorporating ways to reach multiple intelligences in lessons will help students retain information and stay engaged throughout our long days.
