Researching theories of child and early adolescent development and then developing instruction based on research-based best practices is crucial for the success of the students and the teacher. As an educator, your goal will be to consider the students’ cognitive development and contextual factors when planning for instruction. Practical application improves the teacher’s ability to recognize student strengths and weaknesses as well as the students’ readiness and motivation to learn.

For this assignment, imagine you are the teacher described in each scenario and complete the “Strategies for all Students” template. The specific requirements for each scenario are listed below.

Part 1: Developing Strategies

For each student, write a 150-200 word response that includes:

• A learning theory that applies specifically to each student’s unique cognitive, linguistic, social-emotional, and physical developmental needs. State the learning theory and why it is appropriate for the student. Research support is required.
• One developmentally appropriate instruction strategy you would recommend (refer to the assigned readings) to assist the student, taking into account the students’ individual strengths, interests, differences, and needs. Consider cognitive development and abilities, as well as contextual factors (e.g., language and culture) when developing the strategies.
• Your plan to modify instruction to meet this student’s specific needs. Keep in mind, a modification is a change to the content or curriculum.
• Strategies to incorporate accommodations for students with exceptionalities in assessments and testing conditions. Remember, an accommodation is a support to help the student work on the current content successfully.

Part 2: Reflection

In 250-500 words, write a reflection that addresses the following:

• The importance of understanding cognitive, linguistic, social-emotional, and physical development of children when designing and modifying instruction.
• The steps you can take to ensure you are creating developmentally appropriate instruction that considers individual students’ strengths, interests, differences, and needs. Describe the instructional strategies that can be used to promote student learning and individual development, acquisition of knowledge, and motivation.