Sharon Lloyd, Physics teacher at the International School of Helsinki
Grade level: Grade 5-12, Subject area: MS & HS Science (but has more general application)
Offering examples of how curriculum and assessments can be modified to provide access to the mainstream Science program for EAL & SEN students. Although the examples are based in Science curriculum, the techniques and strategies can be adapted to other subject areas. The examples come from Grades 8-10 but can be simplified or extended to become age appropriate. There will also be an opportunity for participants to contribute ideas and share resources via Dropbox.
Connie Miller, eighth grade Language Arts teacher at the American International School of Vienna
Grade level: Grade 5-8, Subject area: Language Arts
Participants will learn how one school has implemented a reading workshop approach and how this learner-centered approach naturally differentiates and moves students through increasingly complex text.
Richard Smith, Learning Resources Teacher at the Anglo-American School of Moscow
Grade level: K-12, Subject area: All
It is Richard’s intention that teachers gain a better understanding of how to help special needs students rise to the challenges of the IB program, without compromising the demands of the rigorous curriculum. The presentation will begin with an attempt to explain how the inclusion of special education students is beneficial for the mission of the entire school. Accordingly, teachers will walk away with concrete tools intended to seamlessly integrate differentiation strategies into their instruction, ranging from planning and implementation to strategies for more effective grading. These tools will be considerate of allowable accommodations. The presentation will be partially from the perspective of the special needs IB student as well as the perspective of the classroom teacher.
Randal Eplin, PK-12 Principal at the International School of Latvia
Grade level: K-12, Subject area: Special Needs
After completing a survey of International Schools in the CEESA region and beyond, the workshop aim is for participants to 'take away' best practice after exploring different delivery models in developing special needs programs for international students K-12. Participants will also discuss widely accepted definitions for Dyslexia, Attention Deficit Disorder, and Gifted and Talented. Finally, 'next steps' will be considered in moving forward with program models in international schools.
Rhonda Fisher, DP Coordinator/DP Psychology/College Counselor at the International School of Latvia
Grade level: K-12, Subject area: All
This presentation will focus on brain compatible teaching strategies that can be used effectively in an IB classroom. Dr. Fisher will provide participants an overview of the latest research concerning the brain and learning with an emphasis on the IB classroom. Each participant will leave the presentation with an understanding of the brain and specific strategies that can be implemented in every IB classroom.
Michele Baker and Nadia Mills, Kindergarten teachers at the Inter-Community School Zurich
Grade level: K-12, Subject area: Waldkinder
Rachel Carson, an American naturalist and campaigner, wrote: “If a child is to keep alive his inborn sense of wonder he needs the companionship of at least one adult who can share the joy, excitement, and mystery of the world we live in.” It is with great pleasure that Michele Baker and Nadia Mills introduce you to an innovative approach to bringing the classroom outdoors. Engaging students in a variety of learning engagements in local forests or parks allows them to explore their world without the restrictions of defined materials. Through experiences in the natural world, students develop a lifelong affection for our environment, increased awareness of our impact on the world, and a heightened sense of responsibility for our actions. Through discussion of our program, we look forward to sharing our experience of how learning outside the classroom improves academic success, motor skill development, confidence, self-esteem and leadership qualities.