This week we were to create a lesson using CAST's Universal Design for Learning lesson template. The template was familiar in the form and basic content, but I did find it challenging to figure out what was wanted in each area. I also found it challenging to narrow down what I could focus on into one lesson template. The model lessons proved very helpful in answering my questions and overall I felt that I did develop a solid lesson that I would share with teachers on my campus in teaching hurricane development. I used resources from my districts aligned curriculum to help me focus on unit and lesson goals, as that would be required when working with staff members if actually developing a lesson.
What I did like about the UDL template is that it made me think about differentiation for students. I was concerned with finding and using multiple methods to represent the information being presented and to provide options for students to present the information to the classroom. I also liked to focus on having flexible tools and teaching methods in order to meet the needs of the diverse classroom. The real classrooms of my school mimic the one in the scenario and as educational needs vary and teachers need to be equipped to respond to the needs of all learners.
