Language and Cognitive Demands

Natural Hazards

In all honesty I felt that this unit/lesson plan was really detailed and well thought through. It seems like effort was placed into reaching every level in the DOK framework and the ability for the demonstration of understanding was very multimodal. I especially like the chance for students to demonstrate their learning through creating a project, in this case a magazine, where they can really produce something that connects to them and their learning. The only thing that I wonder is were there any models presented to the students of a completed project? I think that modeling something is especially important, more so when it is used in conjunction with a more traditional direction sheet. I think models are also very helpful to students who struggle with language all around. I think by seeing the use of sentence stems however, that the lesson most likely included some reference for a completed magazine.

Utilizing classroom and peer discussions is a great way to cover language demands for both listening and speaking.  The use of the magazine project is also great in helping to develop writing and reading proficiency. Overall it seems that every language demand was thought about and covered. Perhaps the only thing could be to include some form of small group collaboration? I do not think I read that the magazine project had a group element to it other than in the beginning. Maybe allowing students to work with each other on some form of the project while completing it could be helpful instead of just having peer collaboration before starting the project?

Nonetheless I felt that this unit plan was solid and seemed very thoughtful to allow for an equitable learning experience for every student.