edtpa task 1 planning commentary example

3 min read 01-02-2025

edtpa task 1 planning commentary example

The EDTP (Educator Effectiveness in the Development of Professional Teaching Practices) Task 1 requires a comprehensive planning commentary detailing your instructional approach for a specific lesson. This example showcases a strong planning commentary, highlighting key elements that demonstrate effective lesson design and alignment with best practices. Remember, this is an example and should not be copied directly; adapt it to reflect your own teaching context and chosen lesson.

Focusing on Student Needs: A 5th Grade Math Lesson on Fractions

This planning commentary details my instructional plan for a fifth-grade math lesson on adding and subtracting fractions with unlike denominators. The lesson focuses on building conceptual understanding through various activities and caters to the diverse learning needs within the classroom.

Understanding the Students: Differentiation and Assessment

My class comprises 22 students, with varying levels of prior knowledge regarding fractions. Three students require IEPs (Individualized Education Programs) for specific learning disabilities, while five students are consistently exceeding grade-level expectations. To address this diversity, I will employ differentiated instruction strategies.

Pre-assessment: A brief pre-lesson quiz will assess existing knowledge of fraction concepts (simplifying fractions, identifying common denominators). This will inform my grouping strategies and allow for targeted support.
Differentiation: Students who demonstrate mastery on the pre-assessment will be challenged with more complex problem-solving activities involving mixed numbers. Students needing additional support will work with me in a small group, focusing on building a solid understanding of finding common denominators using visual models (fraction bars, area models). Graphic organizers will be provided to assist students in organizing their work and visual learners will have access to manipulatives.
Formative Assessment: During the lesson, I will circulate the classroom, observing student work and providing immediate feedback. Think-pair-share activities will allow for peer learning and identification of common misconceptions. A short exit ticket will assess understanding of the key concepts covered.

Learning Objectives and Standards Alignment

This lesson aligns with the following state standards: [Insert specific state standards related to adding and subtracting fractions]. The learning objectives for this lesson are:

Students will be able to identify common denominators for fractions with unlike denominators.
Students will be able to add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators accurately.
Students will be able to explain the process of adding and subtracting fractions with unlike denominators using mathematical reasoning.

Instructional Strategies and Activities

The lesson will unfold in three phases:

Phase 1: Introduction (15 minutes)

Review: Begin with a brief review of adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators.
Modeling: Model the process of finding common denominators using visual representations (fraction circles).
Guided Practice: Work through several examples together, emphasizing the importance of finding the least common multiple.

Phase 2: Independent Practice and Collaboration (25 minutes)

Differentiated Activities: Students will engage in differentiated activities based on their pre-assessment results.
Collaborative Work: Students will work in small groups to solve word problems involving adding and subtracting fractions with unlike denominators.
Think-Pair-Share: Students will discuss their strategies and solutions with their group members.

Phase 3: Closure and Assessment (10 minutes)

Review: Review key concepts and address any remaining questions.
Exit Ticket: Students will complete a short exit ticket to assess their understanding of the lesson's objectives.

Materials and Resources

The lesson will utilize the following materials:

Whiteboard or projector
Markers or pens
Fraction circles (manipulatives)
Worksheet with practice problems (differentiated levels)
Graphic organizers
Exit ticket

Addressing Potential Challenges

I anticipate that some students may struggle with finding the least common multiple. To address this, I will provide additional support through small group instruction and the use of visual aids like number lines and multiplication charts. I will also incorporate error analysis into the lesson to help students understand common mistakes and learn from them.

This detailed planning commentary demonstrates a thorough understanding of the lesson's objectives, student needs, and instructional strategies. By employing differentiated instruction and utilizing formative assessment, I aim to create a supportive and engaging learning environment where all students can succeed. The lesson is designed to move beyond rote memorization, fostering conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills. The use of varied instructional strategies caters to diverse learning styles and ensures accessibility for all learners. Post-lesson reflection will inform future instruction and refine my approach to meet the evolving needs of my students.