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When and how should I exempt or modify coursework in Smartfox?

This article will provide a general guideline of when and how to exempt or modify coursework to promote student learning.

Method is a school that puts student learning first and recognizes that learning can look different from each unique student to the next. 

 

Remember that Smartfox curriculum is a framework that should be adhered to in the best case scenario.  However, just like a teachers use of a textbook in a classroom, there are times when a teacher can stray from suggested lessons, replace suggested assignments with one that’s more suitable for his/her students, or skip something if he/she feels that a student has demonstrated mastery. 

 

Recognize also that there are other programs and curriculum we use to help supplement Smartfox content.  Some include: 

  • iReady lessons
  • RAZ Kids
  • Compass

 

When considering modifications and exemptions, be sure you have the following questions in mind:

  • What is the root reason why my student is struggling? How do I address it?
  • How can I help my student learn? 
  • Will an exemption hurt the student’s overall learning? If so, what can I do instead?

What’s Going On? 

Interventions/Modifications/Exemptions

Student is showing ample time spent on lessons, assignments and quizzes and adequately demonstrates they are attempting, but working too slow to keep up pace. 
  • Adjust or shorten assignment requirements
  • Use scaffolding that makes learning more accessible: graphic organizers, sentence starters, paragraph frames
  • Consider the standards addressed by coursework and create an alternate assessment that addresses these standards
  • Remove redundant work - see scope & sequence or class instructor for guidance of what can be removed

Student is engaged in material, working earnestly in his/her course, but scores are significantly low
  • Consider the standards addressed by quiz or assignment and create an alternate assessment that addresses these standards.  Some might include: 
    • iReady lessons and assessments
    • Alternate formats of assignments: Graphic organizers, slide presentations to demonstrate learning, verbally assess
  • Keep assignments but switch readings to lower lexile ranges
  • Assigned study halls or tutoring for additional help

Student is significantly behind due to lack of motivation and attempt
  • Modify pacing guides
  • Require study halls and tutoring
  • Design a contract for modification



Do

Don’t
  • Trust your judgement of what’s best for the child’s overall learning
  • “Give some to get some” 
  • Look at the child holistically - what does the student truly need?
  • Collaborate with the subject matter credentialed teachers for guidance
  • Ask for help when in doubt
  • Use modifications or exemptions as the easy way out.
  • Remove coursework that’s integral to learning (we are trying to close gaps, not create more)