Google Classroom is a user-friendly Learning Management System (LMS) designed with students in mind. I’ve chosen to use it for my course design because my students are already familiar with its features. For course planning, I used Google Sheets and Google Drive, which integrate seamlessly with Google Classroom, making the process smooth and efficient.
My course centers around a year-end STAAR Blitz review unit for 7th-grade honors students preparing for the 8th-grade math STAAR test. The "Start Here" module is tailored to these students, who are already familiar with both me and how Google Classroom functions. They’ve also received training on the digital tools we've utilized throughout the year.
This module features a pacing guide for the course, Fink’s 3-column table outlining learning objectives, and essential resources for students. A standout element is the gameboard-style student assignment tracker, which helps students stay on pace by moving their game pieces to the assignments they’re currently working on. Additionally, I’ve included a SMART goal tracker, allowing students to reflect on their review progress throughout the unit.
This course is designed for in-person blended learning, so students will receive small group review instruction from the teacher and then move to the online learning activities and mastery checks for each readiness standard. The outline for my first two modules is below:
WEEK 1: Reporting Category 1 and 4- Numerical Representations and Data
In this module, students will work through three readiness TEKS: 8.2D, 8.5D, and 8.12D. Starting with 8.2D (compare and order real numbers), students will receive small group instruction to refresh their memory on the necessary skills, followed by an interactive Desmos classroom activity. Students will then apply their knowledge to an application activity where they must analyze a set of data and determine the most efficient way to organize it, they must present their work through a video. Before moving on to the following standard, they must complete a short mastery check Google form. This process continues for the next two TEKS, with Delta Math, Khan Academy, and different application projects. To close the week, students are asked to reflect on a discussion question, take a cumulative quiz, and check on their smart goal.
WEEK 2: Reporting Category 2- Linear Relationships
In the second module, students will work through four readiness TEKS: 8.4B, 8.4C, 8.5G, and 8.5I. This is also supplemented with the 7th grade readiness TEKS: 7.4A and 7.7A. The process for this module closely reflects the same information as above to get through the content.
WEEK 3: Reporting Category 2- Equations and Inequalities
WEEK 4: Reporting Category 3- Geometry and Measurement
WEEK 5: Reporting Category 3- Transformational Geometry
WEEK 6: Culminating Project and Reflection
These modules are designed to give students opportunities for choice, ownership, and voice through authentic learning experiences that help them achieve their goal of mastering the STAAR test. Students engage in application-based activities using platforms such as Delta Math, Khan Academy, and Desmos Classroom, which support their learning and provide meaningful practice.
Cognitive overload occurs when students are faced with too much information or too many tasks at once, making it difficult to process and retain knowledge effectively. To address this issue, I focus on strategies like chunking information into smaller, manageable sections, allowing students to grasp content step by step. Scaffolding also plays a key role by gradually introducing more complex tasks, ensuring that students have a solid understanding of foundational concepts before moving on. Clear and concise instructions are essential to keep students focused and prevent unnecessary confusion. Additionally, incorporating breaks and time for reflection helps reduce mental fatigue and improve retention. When using technology, I’m mindful to streamline tools and platforms, ensuring they serve a specific pedagogical purpose without overwhelming students. Together, these strategies help create a balanced learning environment that promotes understanding without causing cognitive overload.
Komentáře