In this assessment, you are asked to focus on using your knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices and quality indicators to evaluate an early learning environment and program for children between the ages of 4 years old or PreK. 

 

Answer each of the questions in question/answer format. The reflection should be written in paragraph format. 

 

Paper Composition: double spaced using 11 or 12 font, proper grammar and spelling, proper use of citations. Question/Answer format.

 

You will:

Step 1

Standard 1C

2 points

· Visit a childcare center to observe a classroom of children ages 4-year-old or VPK children. These two age groups are the only age groups accepted as the subject of your observation. 

 

·  Assess the learning environment using the quality indicators as stated below: 

1. How is the schedule in operation like the one posted?

2. Describe how the schedule allows for flexibility of time spent in interest centers?

3. Describes how this schedule allows for alternating periods of active/quiet play

4. How much of the child’s day spent in child-initiated play? ***

5. How much time is spent in teacher-directed activities? ***

6. How much time is devoted to active play activities? ***

7. How does the learning environment reflect other cultures found in the children’s community?

8. How are adaptations made for children with special needs?

 

Reflection

2 point

Evaluate the appropriateness of your answers to the questions with the asterick (***) by citing Copple and Bredekamp (2009) Developmentally Appropriate Practice textbook in a paragraph summing up your impression of the learning environment and specifically your response to questions 4,5, and 6. There should be enough elaboration on each answer that there is evidence of learning taken place. The DAP book should be used as support of your comments (either pro/con).  There must be a citation used in the paragraph to receive credit for the reflection. 

 

Step Two

Standard 4b

2 points

· Observe how classroom management is addressed by providing children many opportunities to work independently. 

· List the cues you see that would help children know: 

1. How do children know when it is time to clean up?

2. How do they know where to properly return their toys?

3. Where does the child place his personal possessions?

4. How do they know the behavior that is expected of them?

5. What is expected of children during lunch and snack?

6. What kinds of “helper” jobs are assigned to children and why is this important? ***

7. What other ways is independence encouraged in children? ***

8. Are there any accommodations made for children who need special assistance to manage themselves in the classroom?

 

Reflection

2 point

Evaluate the appropriateness of your answers to the above eight questions by citing Copple and Bredekamp (2009) Developmentally Appropriate Practice textbook in a paragraph summing up your impression of the classroom management techniques and specifically to questions  6 and 7. There should be enough elaboration on each answer that there is evidence of learning taken place. There must be a citation used in the paragraph to receive credit for the reflection. 

 

Step Three

Standard 4C

2 points

· Focus on the activities planned for the day, as this is something the teacher prepares in advance. 

· Elaborate on the following: 

1. Were there specific activities planned around a theme of study? ****

2. Describe how the teacher introduced the theme, how children were given an opportunity to explore the theme and use their inquiry skills to learn more about the theme.

3. Describe the math activities children were exposed to during the activity time. *****

4. Was there evidence of the teacher considering accommodations and adaptations made to activities so that the activities would be inclusive for all children?

 

Reflection

2 points 

Evaluate the appropriateness of your answers to the above four questions by citing A Practical Guide to Early Childhood Curriculum textbook (chapter 4 and 12) in a paragraph summing up your impression of the classroom management techniques and specifically to questions  1 and 3. There should be enough elaboration on each answer that there is evidence of learning taken place. There must be a citation used in the paragraph to receive credit for the reflection. 

 

Step Four

Standard 4d

2 points

· One-page reflection stating the following: (question/answer format)

• How has your impression of group care for young children changed?
• What two things would you change if this were your classroom?
• What idea are you going to incorporate into your classroom?