Using CASTs UDL checklist

My two previous blogs focused on curriculum barriers.  To extend what I have learned about UDL and curriculum barriers I revamped an old lesson.  As I reviewed and analyzed by lesson I used the CAST's Educator Checklist (click here for a direct link to the checklist.) The checklist is helpful because it highlights all of the ways teachers should differentiate lessons to create multiple means of representation, expression and engagement. 

I reviewed a literacy lesson on inferring emotions.  The lesson format represents information in a way that is accessible to all students.  Students can either listen to me read or they can read the pictures. Also, found the lesson provided multiple means of engagement.  During the lesson students are working partners, analyzing fun illustrations, sharing, drawing and writing about the text.  In addition, the topic of emotions is a subject all young students can relate to. However, after using the checklist, I realized lesson format did provide students with more than one option of expressing they ideas. 

Here is snapshot of my lesson :

Here is a snapshot of the lesson after I made some UDL adjustments:

Above, you will see notice three highlighted sentences.  I added these pieces to provide my students with more than one option of expressing their ideas.

Teachers try the UDL Educator Checklist, it is very helpful and resourceful!