Reviewed by Ann Rubino
Adjunct, Lewis University College of Education
Integration of lessons in an inclusive classroom presents a severe challenge to the teacher. Kids are on–level, below–level, and often learning English as well. Westphal comes to the rescue by providing menus of appropriate activities for the commonly taught science topics.
With a background in gifted education, she has created eight books of menus so far, of which this one is geared specifically to lower and on–level students in grades 3–5. Her other books deal specifically with other levels of students. The menus allow students to make choices of products they can create to demonstrate learning. Teachers can meet varying needs while avoiding the use of traditional worksheets, thus increasing motivation while achieving needed goals.
There is a section for each topic containing guidelines for evaluation, rubrics, and teacher instructions for each activity. Appropriate pacing is recommended, and both an easier menu and harder one are provided. The bulk of the book is comprised of menus that are ready to be photocopied and used with classes. It is recommended as at least a partial answer to the perennial lament: “What do I do Monday?”
Review posted on 4/24/2012
|