Santiago's Case Study
by Jess Reznek
1. STEP
1.1. Growth Mindset and Progress
1.2. STEP 1 Oral Communication
1.3. STEP 2 Reading
1.4. STEP 1 Writing
1.5. Simpler words, paraphrases, gestures, decodes and reads aloud simple texts, recognizes a growing bank of sight words, beginning awareness of grammar
2. Teaching Strategies
2.1. Think-Pair-Share
2.2. Vocabulary instruction within context of learning
2.3. Heavy use of visual, tactile, auditory and kinesthetic learning
2.4. Assistive technology
2.5. Dual language projects
2.6. Cooperative Learning Projects
2.7. Inquiry based learning experiences
2.8. The International Children’s Digital Library (http://en.childrenslibrary.org/) - plenty of read alouds
3. Typical TDSB Day
3.1. Integration every day with mainstream class - opportunities to engage socially with peers
3.2. ESL specific class with direct support with other ELL's
3.3. Weekly Portuguese classes - a chance to shine and excel amongst his class community
4. Background
4.1. Grade 4
4.2. L1 = Portuguese
4.3. L2 = English
4.4. Parents not very involved and do not speak English - goal to seek community engagement
5. Background
6. Welcoming Learning Environment
6.1. Variety of learning strategies: UDL and DI
6.2. Inclusive classroom environment that acknowledges diversity
6.3. Student backgrounds and interests are appreciated and talked about
6.4. Individual students' voice are celebrated and respected
6.5. Visual displays in classroom in multiple languages
7. Modifications & Accommodations
7.1. Universal Design Learning Strategies & Differentiated Instruction
7.1.1. Cooperative learning
7.1.1.1. Leadership opportunities
7.1.1.2. Chance to take on more initiative
7.1.2. Project based approach
7.1.3. Problem based approach
7.1.4. Explicit instruction