7A-John Bacak- Response to Sandra Zeman

Sandy,

 The research paper was organized and informational regarding the different types of exceptions used for special education. I also liked the fact that you wrote the paper in a first person perspective. Writing it that way showed more connection to the topic and direct speaking towards the reader, rather than a research paper that seems to lecture facts and study based information. The paper shows a true concern about test taking in special education and what can be done as whole for the entire district rather than a classroom. I think the ideas discussed should be taken more seriously on a district and level and perhaps a universal plan of action should be adopted. Very nice description of each strategy as well, it gives a more clear understanding on what techniques are used for exceptional learners but also what kind of assessments can be used, such as the portfolios. These techniques can be more beneficial for learners. The discussion questions are straight to the point when asking what is beneficial, what can be used, and how teachers can improve a child's performance. Questions can be found right in the reading, so they are easy to find. Also, the use of making the questions more personalized, such as question three: How do we as educators give exceptional learners differentiated instruction but still ensure that they are learning the general curriculum? This kind of question can help readers sit back and examine their own practices or adapt new ones in their own classroom. Me not having my own classroom, this still helped me understand the affects of differentiated instruction and how I can apply this practice. The PowerPoint provided the main points of the research paper in an easier and simpler form. The one piece I enjoyed the most was the "Other Helpful Tips" slides, especially the one regarding the purpose of the IEP. Educators should be familiar with a student's IEP to understand what a student's accommodations are and what teaching strategies are useful so they can present the material in a way that is beneficial and understanding.