Hi everyone,

This week I am on a roll to get things done. What inhibited me this week was my family, motivating me to continue and just try to do my best every day and take everything one step at a time. From this study unit I have learned that you need to think before you teach and take every learner into account before you start a lesson. 

• What new things did you become aware of when working through this study unit’s content?

Study unit 3 was very insightful to me. I enjoyed reading and getting ideas on what to do and what to focus on when I have my classroom someday. It was interesting to learn about the purpose and importance of play with regards to holistic development in the foundation phase and how to play in the classroom have several important contributions/ benefits and lastly, it was engaging to read about the characteristics of play. 

• What concept/element/idea was most significant for you in this study unit?

The characteristics of play. 

• What is your opinion about the value of the content of this study unit for your teaching practice?

Learning and reading through the content of this study unit I learned a lot especially on how important play is in the classroom, this study unit I value and appreciate. I will most definitely keep this study unit and go through it again in the future. It was also interesting to learn about the genres of play and how you can make use of it to include them in your classroom.  

Individual reflection

What possibly made some learners uncomfortable during these activities? 

Some of them felt uncomfortable dancing in front of the boys and the use of house music and some learners did not understand the language. There was a language barrier.

• Why were some learners uncomfortable?

Because the girls danced in front of the boys, there was a language barrier and some learners felt uncomfortable due to religious reasons regarding the chosen song. 

• Can you think of ways to address these issues in the future? What will you change?

Make sure all the students agree on the song, make sure the learners understand what the song is about, and ask them beforehand who would feel comfortable dancing in front of the class or who would like to not participate in the game. Explain the game and the music before you start the lesson and make sure that the learners understand what to expect from the music lesson, don’t just assume they understand.

• How can we accommodate diverse learner profiles in our classrooms? What must we beware of?

1. Get to know your students
2. Maintain consistent communication
3. Acknowledge and respect every student
4. Practice cultural sensitivity
5.  Incorporate diversity in the lesson plan
6.  Give students freedom and flexibility