Question 1 (Marks: 50)

In order to value and affirm diversity in schools and classrooms, we need to understand in more detail what diversity means in relation to learning; we will unpack this in the following section. It’s important to understand the range of possible differences that may exist so that you can notice the differences between your learners and get to know them well, and therefore know what they need from you in the classroom (The IIE, 2021).

This question has two parts.

Part A

We have covered nine ways in which children in your classroom might be different and have different experiences of learning. Pick any THREE (3) out of the list below and write an essay of 1000-1500 words in which you discuss how you will incorporate diversity within your classroom. Your essay should include examples relevant to the phase you are studying to teach.
• Ways of making meaning from learning

• The ways that learners behave.

• Psychosocial well-being

• Learners’ socio-economic circumstances

• Gender identity and sexual orientation

• Language

Part B

The concept of intersectionality takes this thinking a step further. It examines the ways in which several of these systems of oppression intersect or come together in one person’s life to compound marginalisation or exclusion (The IIE, 2021).

Discuss how the three elements that you discussed in Part A can intersect with each other in the life of a learner. Make use of relevant examples related to the phase that you are studying to teach.

Please note: You are required to reference the sources you consult. Your answer should be approximately 3 pages or 1000-1500 words in length. Please use the assessment rubric for Question 1 below to evaluate your own work prior to submitting your assignment

Question 2 (Marks: 50)

The Department of Basic Education identified priority action areas necessary to respond to the needs of children in the country. Below is a list of some of these action areas. Pick any TWO areas that you feel passionate about.
• co-curricular support

• curriculum support

• health promotion

• Infrastructure, i.e., water and sanitation

• nutritional support

• psychosocial support

• safety and protection

• social welfare services

Write an essay of 1000-1500 words in which you discuss your two areas. For each area, discuss the following:
• Link the priority action area with the challenges that South African schools face.

• Discuss your role as a teacher in implementing your chosen priority area.

• Identify who else you would collaborate with in order to achieve your chosen priority area.

• Outline any challenges in implementing the priority area.

• Make use of examples relevant to the phase you are studying to teach to support your discussion.

Please note: You are required to reference the sources you consult. Your answer should be approximately 3 pages, or 1000-1500 words in length. Please use the assessment rubric for Question 2 below to evaluate your own work prior to submitting your assignment.

Answers to Above Questions on Inclusive Education

Answer 1: Incorporating diversity in today’s classroom requires significant effort on the part of educators as it is a challenging task to cater to the diverse needs and experiences of students. Diversity is highly essential from the point of view of creating an inclusive learning environment for students and it ultimately helps in promoting academic success as well. This essay is aimed at analysing three important aspects of diversity in the classroom and also analyses the strategy to incorporate diversity effectively.