COVER SHEET FOR A PORTFOLIO WORK SAMPLE

UNT Masters Program in Curriculum and Instruction

Date of Activity: Spring 2012 Title of Artifact: Digital Story Course: EDCI 5130 Course objective(s) addressed 1. Complete and report (in a thesis type format, following the 6th Ed. APA guidelines) on the program-wide large-scale action research project that investigated a local classroom/school problem, 2. Use professional tools and technology to examine local classroom/school problems.

Artifact Description
This work sample was completed in the requirements for EDCI 5130. It is an examination of two different cities, the one I grew up in and the one I was teaching in. I compared the two communities based on demographics, education, and socio-economical status and other factors. Also included is a reflection on what I had discovered while researching the two communities. Relationship to NBPTS Standards
This artifact demonstrates knowledge of three Middle Childhood/Generalist Standard(s). V. Sustaining a Learning Environment My knowledge from this artifact reflects my students ideal learning environment VI. Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Fairness This artifact focuses on fairness in diversity X. Reflecting on Teaching and Learning In this work sample, I reflect on what occurs

Background of Artifact
The propose of this assignment was to compare the area in which we grew up in o the area that we work in. It helped me better understand where my kids were coming from and how they are growing up differently that I did. I examined more than just statistical data; I drove the neighborhoods and explored town buildings. I took qualitative and quantitative data to compare the communities. This assignment was a revelation in terms of getting to know my students.

Reflection on Learning Demonstrated in this Work Sample

From completing this assignment, I have learned so much about my own community and the community I work in! I have learned so much about my students and where they come from. This artifact will affect my classroom due to the knowledge of my students background; I can adjust my lessons to their upbringing and relate lessons to their life to make them more relevant. I have benefited from this artifact by discovering information about my students that I had never thought to consider. This work sample taught me to dig deeper when thinking about students. I will use what I have learned from this artifact to benefit my classroom by relating lesson to my students lives.