Grade-level curriculum can help educators address knowledge gaps following the COVID-19 pandemic. Here's how.
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the lives of students around the world, with many having had to make the sudden transition to virtual learning environments. This disruption highlighted how important it is for students who are behind their grade level in terms of academic performance to have access to appropriate grade-level assignments.
It may be tempting to use lessons that are below grade level, after all, that is the learning that may have been lost. But in actuality, using current grade-level material can help close the gap of what was lost while still bringing the student to current mastery of this year's expected learning standards. Here's how to get started.
Using Current Grade-Level Work to Address Learning Gaps
When students are behind in their grade-level assignments, it is important to develop a plan to close the knowledge gaps that have caused them to fall behind. To do this, educators should start by assessing the student’s current level of skill and understanding of the material. This can be done through observation and assessment activities that measure a student’s current knowledge base. Once educators have identified what the student may need help with, they can begin to develop an individualized learning plan tailored to the needs of the student.
Practice and Progress
This learning plan should include targeted instruction of skills that the student needs improvement in as well as supplemental activities or resources that could be used to help close any existing gaps in knowledge. For example, if a student is struggling with math problems related to fractions, educators can look for worksheets, online activities or instructional videos that can provide additional practice on fraction concepts.
By providing grade-level assignments, teachers can ensure that students have the opportunity to refine their skills in subject areas in which they are struggling. To maximize the benefit of grade-level work, educators can use assignments that target specific skills or concepts with which a student may need help.
Trust, Communication and Individualized Support
Creating an environment of trust and communication between teacher and student is important for closing knowledge gaps. Educators should always ensure that students feel supported and understand that their mistakes are part of the learning process. It’s also important for educators to keep open lines of communication so students can reach out when they struggle with something or have questions about a particular topic.
In addition, educators should give students sufficient time to complete their grade-level assignments. Allowing a student more time and providing additional resources if needed can help ensure that they can fully comprehend the material before moving on to more advanced material.
Individualized support is also a powerful tool to help student learning. Teachers can increase one-on-one support and offer mentorship opportunities for students who may need more assistance grasping certain topics, giving the teacher and student valuable, real-time assessment feedback and on the spot discussions of how to progress further in the learning cycle.
Assessments and Adjustments
Finally, it is important for educators to regularly assess a student’s progress when using grade-level work as a tool for addressing knowledge gaps. This will allow educators to determine whether the current strategies are working and make adjustments where necessary.
Through regular assessment and feedback, teachers can make sure that grade-level work is used effectively as part of an overall plan for closing knowledge gaps in students who are behind in their lessons.
Creating an environment of trust and communication between teacher and student is important for closing knowledge gaps. Educators should always ensure that students feel supported and understand that their mistakes are part of the learning process. It’s also important for educators to keep open lines of communication so students can reach out when they struggle with something or have questions about a particular topic.
In Summary
By taking these steps and providing extra support and guidance, educators can help students close any existing knowledge gaps they may have missed due to absences or other challenges they faced throughout the school year. For more insights, ideas and suggestions, feel free to browse Propello's Knowledge Center and visit our Learning and Inspiration Center.