Service Learning Reflection

While working on my Service Learning hours I was able to observe and gain some insight on how a diverse classroom should be obtained. Throughout the hours I watched the different ways the teacher demonstrated effective teaching in regards to diverse students. The following were my observations. In the classroom the teacher has a set of high standards and expects the students to rise up to these standards, yet he treats all students with respect and dignity. This classroom was made up of 100% Hispanics but from different countries. Each country has its own Culture and unique customs. Therefore, the teacher has established an atmosphere of respect and courtesy towards all the students. After all we can learn from one another. As for recognizing different learning styles, the teacher places the students into small groups by reading level. When guided reading is taking place the teacher works with the small groups and adjusts his teaching to the different learning styles. For example, there are students who are visual learners some who are auditory and some who are just hands on.

Throughout the class the teacher is always instructing all students. First they have an entire group instruction where the teacher explains the benchmark or skill that will be learned. Then gives the opening lesson and goes on to guided reading or independent work. In the classroom the teacher has a good relationship with the students providing an open climate making them feel safe when asking questions and also having a healthy exchange of ideas among them. In addition to the classroom being all Hispanic, it is also an Esol class with various levels including ESE non Esol students as well. However, the teacher still provides material for this diverse population. For instance, there is the reading series which includes the vocabulary and a reading library to go along with the story. These are written at the lower level to adapt to the student’s capability. Therefore, he applies different Esol strategies throughout the lessons as well as modifies the curriculum when necessary.

In conclusion, I believe that the instructor is extremely sensitive to the cultural diversity in his classroom. The material that he uses represents the various cultures present in the class. For instance, in the curriculum there are stories about different countries and cultures. Overall I had a great experience which helped me gain some knowledge on how to handle a diverse classroom.