Standard Five: Instructional Delivery The competent teacher differentiates instruction by using a variety of strategies that support critical

and creative thinking, problem-solving, and continuous growth and learning. This teacher understands that the classroom is a dynamic environment requiring ongoing modification to enhance learning for each student. I chose this artifact because I believe that it embodies the essence of differentiated instruction. The artifact is an appropriate representation of this standard because it incorporates visual elements, large and small group discussions, as well as an activity that involves creative and critical thinking. To start off the lesson, students look at and analyze a map which gives those who are visual learners a chance to really engage with the material. By discussing the trends the students see in population density in a large group, the students who struggle more also have a chance to synthesize the information. I also utilize Google Earth in this lesson, which is another useful visual and interactive tool. I then move into an activity in which the students use a blank map of Illinois to figure out why Chicago became such a prominent city. Again, this allows visual learners to make connections between the key terms we discuss and the physical map of Illinois. In addition, each student will get their own copy of the map so they will be able to work at their own pace to make these connections. After several minutes on their own, students move into small group discussion. Utilizing individual time and then small group discussion allows students who process information slower than their peers the time to collect their thoughts, build on their knowledge, and feel confident about engaging in discussions. In the final activity, students are asked to think critically and creatively about why people would have wanted to move to Chicago. They are asked to create a brochure highlighting the reasons why people should move their, which will synthesize and apply the concepts we learned throughout the class period. This artifact demonstrates my growth and development as an educator through my incorporation of multiples forms of visual aids and activities. As my time in the education field increases, the more able I am to think of creative and dynamic lessons that allow students with varying learning styles to be engaged and included in the lessons. I feel more informed about the different needs of students and more confident in my ability to effectively create a learning environment in which all students are able to expand their knowledge. Through my experience in multiple classrooms, I have seen the value of small group discussions because students are able to bounce ideas off of each other and gain new perspectives about topics. This also allows me to give more personal and individualized attention to students who may need extra help. In incorporating all these strategies into my lessons, all of my students can learn together in a safe environment conducive to their individual learning styles.