Teachers in Action Presentation

1. UCP Bailes Science Center Lab Delgado, Jessica JessicaDelgado@knights.ucf.edu 4/23/10 EEX4070

2. Early Perceptions My thoughts going into this project were about what I was about to learn. I was extremely excited because, first of all, the location of the UCP Bailes Science Labs was directly behind my apartment complex, but also because of the valuable information I was going to be learning. Being able to think of lesson plans to accommodate students with disabilities was one of my fears since I didn’t have much training in that area until now. I also had feelings of anxiety because I really didn’t know what to expect once I got there, but was so excited to begin the project!

3. The UCP Bailes Science Center Lab Located on Science Drive around the UCF area.

4. School Demographics

5. Personal Demographics Cuban From Miami Attend UCF Elementary Education Major with ESOL and Reading Endorsement Dancer Volunteered in Bay Harbor Elementary in Miami, Florida Volunteered in Carillon Elementary in Orlando, Florida Camp Counselor for 7 years Tutored students at Carillon Elementary Certified in Mediation Training

6. Engagement Activities *Volunteered every Tuesday from 9:00-10:30 am. *Helped write lesson plan and Instructions for a floating/sinking science lesson *Helped create poster for science lesson *Created lesson plan for Big Idea 12: Motion of Objects *Presented lesson Plan to peers (micro-teach) *Observed teachers/students in classroom setting *Participated/helped teacher in fire drill

7. Participant Demographics Age Range: Infant- 3rd grade Ethnic Background: Various Linguistic heritages: Various Exceptionalities: cerebral palsy, down syndrome, autism, speech delays, developmental delays and vision and hearing impairments My lesson plans will benefit all students for years to come learning Big Idea 12: Motion Of Objects in their Science class at UCP. The lesson I helped with on floating and sinking will also benefit all students for years to come learning about floating and sinking.

8. Reflection of Experience This experience has affected me in the most amazing way. I learned how to think about the littlest things while planning a lesson to accommodate students with disabilities. I was also so privileged to be able to observe these amazing teachers and get pointers on how to engage all types of learners. The experience that had the most impact was observing the students and teachers in their classroom setting. It was inspirational to see these determined students and teachers in action. I really enjoyed being able to observe in the different classrooms. From this experience, I will take away the knowledge of how to provide the best education for students with special needs. These students are so amazing and I am so excited to teach diverse learners like the ones I worked with at UCP Bailes.

9. Reflection of Experience Like I’ve mentioned, my academic learning, approaches to teaching, and insights into working with persons with special needs has definitely been impacted through these experiences. I’ve learned how visually appealing, engaging, specific, and in depth the instructions and lessons need to be in order to help your students learn best. Also, to use as much audio and manipulative learning as possible, as well as to check for understanding frequently.