As a former Special Education teacher, I specialize in delivering academic skills tailored for students with disabilities. Join me on an exciting learning journey as we dive into highly structured science courses. With visual prompts, ample repetition opportunities, and differentiated scaffolding, we'll ensure optimal learning experiences for every student.

Living things thrive where their needs are met, and adaptations play a crucial role in their survival. In this class, learners will embark on an exploration of different land environments (desert, grassland, forest, tropical rainforest, arctic tundra) and water environments (saltwater, freshwater, ocean, wetlands). Witness firsthand how changes in these environments affect living things.

Throughout the class, we'll master vital Inquiry Skills such as observation, prediction, communication, measurement, and more. Together, we'll put things in order, compare, classify, record data, and draw conclusions, developing a well-rounded understanding of our topics.

Upon successful completion of this lesson, students will be able to:

Identify and describe adaptations in land environments using essential vocabulary.
Identify and describe adaptations in water environments using key terminology.
Compare how living things modify their environment.
Analyze the impact of changes on living things.
Our class is divided into three captivating topics, covering a total of 10 weeks:
Topic 1: Adaptations in Land Environments

Lesson 1: Living Things and Their Needs
Lesson 2: Desert
Lesson 3: Grassland
Lesson 4: Forest
Lesson 5: Arctic Tundra
Topic 2: Adaptations in Water Environments

Lesson 1: Water Planet
Lesson 2: Ocean
Lesson 3: Wetlands
Topic 3: Environments Change

Lesson 1: Living Things Change Their Environment
Lesson 2: Changes Affect Living Things
Lesson 3: Living Things of the Past
In our interactive classes using Nearpod, we'll employ a variety of media, including slides, videos, hands-on activities, and virtual field trips. I prioritize the full participation of all students, accommodating their preferred communication methods and focusing on their strengths. While we'll have a blast in our engaging classes, I maintain strong class management practices to ensure an effective and enjoyable learning environment.

Each class follows a structured format:

Greeting and reflection time to tap into prior knowledge.
Vocabulary review to establish a strong foundation.
Guided discovery of the new topic using Nearpod, recording answers and observations in the provided booklet.
Closing class discussion, reflecting on the day's learning and assigning any relevant homework, such as science experiments or completing the booklet.
To support your learning journey, a comprehensive booklet will be provided. If printing is not feasible, we'll find suitable alternatives. You'll also receive advance notice of any common supplies needed for activities.

During class, students will generally not be muted unless there is significant background noise. Students are encouraged to communicate using their most effective method, whether it's verbal responses, chat, a communication board, or assistance from an interpreter (please note, ASL interpretation is not available).

Parents, we understand that occasional absences may occur. Rest assured, a video recording of each lesson will be available upon request, ensuring students can catch up on missed material.

Embark on an incredible scientific adventure today! Enroll in our engaging science classes and empower your student to explore environments and adaptations in a fun and inclusive setting.