2.3 Mr Charlie Anderson is an experienced teacher at Starters full-service school. In his quest to identify and support learners with learning barriers in his class, he put together an inventory of the strengths and needs of the learners across a broad spectrum.Onthebasisoftheinformationgathered,he found a learner who needed extra support and he invited the learner’s parents to be part of the formulation of the individual support plan to support the identified learner. The review date was set for the learner unfortunately at the time of the reviews they found that the plan did not work as the learner had not shown any signs of progress.
2.3.1 Discuss what the next step should be to ensure that the learner is assisted and also state who should be involved in that step. (3)
2.3.2 Explain the importance of assessments to teachers. (3)
2.3.1 The next step to ensure that the learner is assisted would be to reassess the learner's needs and strengths. This may involve conducting further assessments or seeking additional information from the learner's parents or other professionals. It is important to involve a multidisciplinary team consisting of the teacher, special education teacher (if available), school counselor, and any other relevant professionals or specialists who can provide insights or recommendations for appropriate interventions and strategies. Collaboration and ongoing communication with the learner's parents are crucial in order to address the learner's specific needs effectively.
2.3.2 Assessments are important for teachers because they provide valuable information about the learner's current level of understanding and skills. They help teachers determine what the learner already knows and what areas they may need additional support or instruction in. Assessments help teachers set appropriate learning goals, plan instructional strategies, and differentiate instruction to meet the individual needs of learners. They also aid in monitoring the progress and growth of learners over time. Through assessments, teachers can identify any potential learning barriers or difficulties that learners may have and make informed decisions about the necessary interventions or supports that are required to assist the learners in achieving their full potential.
2.3.1 The next step to ensure that the learner is assisted would be to conduct a comprehensive reassessment of the learner's strengths and needs. This reassessment will help identify any potential changes or adjustments that need to be made to the individual support plan. The following individuals should be involved in this step:
1. Mr. Charlie Anderson (the teacher): As the experienced teacher who initially identified the need for support, Mr. Anderson should take the lead in coordinating the reassessment process and analyzing the results.
2. Learner's parents: It is crucial to involve the parents as they have valuable insights into their child's learning and can provide additional information to improve the support plan.
3. School support staff: Professionals such as special education teachers, school psychologists, or learning support specialists should be involved. They can contribute their expertise in assessing and supporting learners with learning barriers.
4. Relevant school administrators: This may include the principal or other administrators responsible for overseeing the support services in the school. Their involvement ensures that the necessary resources and support are made available for the learner.
2.3.2 Assessments are important to teachers for several reasons:
1. Identifying student needs: Assessments help teachers identify the strengths and weaknesses of their students' learning. This information aids in designing effective instructional strategies and individualized support plans.
2. Monitoring student progress: Assessments allow teachers to monitor student progress over time. By comparing current performance with previous assessments, teachers can evaluate the effectiveness of their teaching methods and make any necessary adjustments.
3. Informing instructional decisions: Assessments provide data that helps teachers make informed decisions about the content, pace, and style of instruction. Teachers can tailor their lessons to address specific areas of need and ensure that all students are challenged and supported appropriately.
4. Providing feedback: Assessments provide valuable feedback to both teachers and students. Teachers can use assessment results to provide constructive feedback on student performance, helping students understand their strengths and areas for improvement.
5. Informing educational planning: Assessments contribute to the development of educational plans and interventions. Based on assessment data, teachers can collaborate with other professionals to create individualized support plans that meet the unique needs of each student.