CHAPTER III

Diversity of
Learners
LESSON 1 Learner's Gender, Needs, Strengths, Interests, and
Experiences

Observation
A. Interview the following internal school stakeholders on how they promote a

gender sensitive school/classroom. Write their responses on the lines

provided below.

School Principal

Department head
As school head, we promote gender-sensitive school by ensuring that
every student and personnel have equal role in participating in any
circumstances and opportunities. We have to make the students feel of
their value and importance in the institution regardless of gender or other
factors. There must be no discrimination in any activities and programs.

Cooperating teacher
Typically, the way I group learners in activities or even in doing some
tasks like group cleaners, I mix the boys and girls by giving them equal
tasks. Avoid stereotyping is also a good example of this one like boys are
noisier than girls but instead saying it generally to everyone. Class
participation is given equally to both genders, the opportunities they can
grab for their grades as well as the knowledge that they can receive from
me.

Guidance Counselor

B. Discuss how the following steps create a progressive, student-centered

classroom.
1. Create ongoing projects.
Creating ongoing projects is a good method to keep students interested
and encourage a deeper comprehension of the material. Ongoing projects
not only deepen understanding but also allow learners to develop skills
that are transferable to various contexts, contributing to their overall
academic and professional growth.
 2. Integrate technology.
Integrating technology into instruction can enhance engagement,
collaboration, and the overall learning experience. In incorporating
technology, we can use strategies such as choosing technology tools and
platforms that align with our learning objectives and the needs of our
learners. Carefully incorporating technology can revolutionize the
educational setting and equip students for a world dominated by
technology.
3. Replace homework with engaging in-class activities.
Replacing traditional homework with engaging in-class activities can be a
positive approach to enhance student learning and engagement. This
encourages a deeper comprehension because effective teaching requires
that pupils fully understand the subject matter. It allows students to teach
a concept to their peers to have a progressive and productive learning
process. To foster involvement and a deeper knowledge of the material, a
dynamic and engaging learning environment is the aim.
4. Eliminate rules and consequences.
It's usually not a good idea to eliminate rules and consequences because
an organized and encouraging environment is essential for students.
Rules and consequences provide a framework for behavior, promote
fairness, and contribute to a positive and safe learning or working
environment. Effective rules and consequences contribute to a positive
and respectful atmosphere where everyone can thrive.
5. Involve students in evaluation.
One of the best ways to empower students, foster self-reflection, and
develop an awareness of ownership in their learning is to involve them in
the evaluation process. Incorporating students into the evaluation process
not only gives them a better comprehension of what they have learned but
also creates a helpful and cooperative learning atmosphere. It encourages
a culture of ongoing development and aids in the growth of critical thinking
and self-reflection abilities in students.

C. List down 10 strengths and weaknesses of the students from the class you

have observed.

Student Name Strengths Weaknesses

1. Student (A) – ONYX She is participative and She’s insecure about

 easily gets the topic. her physical
appearance. Also, she’s
fear of failure.
2. Student (B) – ONYX His infectious smile. His laziness and
Feels not have a talkativeness inside the
problem. He is polite. classroom.

3. Student (C) – SSC He is a fast learner and He is a disorganized

has determination. He student. He is sarcastic.
is open-minded and
determined.
4. Student (D) – SSC She is a resourceful She’s competitive and
and flexible. She is fear of rejection.
humble and idealistic.
5. Student (E) – RUBY He is creative and He is immature
talented. He is friendly. sometimes and
sensitive.
6. Student (F) – RUBY She is good at problem- She is a shy type of
solving and dedicated. person. Lack of
confidence.
7. Student (G) – SPA He is creative, has He lacks focus. He is
writing skills, and is sensitive.
honest.
8. Student (H) – SPA She’s hard-working, a She’s gets bored easily
team player, and and weak at solving
flexible. She is also, math.
caring.
9. Student (I) – DIAMOND She is a public speaker She’s stubborn and a
and easily gets the perfectionist.
lesson.
10. Student (J) – DIAMOND He’s good at He is an impatient
communication skills person lack of focus and
and can lead. is talkative. He is also
too lazy to answer and
write.
Other comments and observations:

Considering learners' gender, needs, strengths, interests, and experiences is

crucial for creating an inclusive and effective educational environment. In this
world of diversity, all we need is to have the ability and capability to manage
them with their diverse need and wants. Being aware of their strengths and
weaknesses can help us to guide them and give them advice on how to conquer
those weaknesses they encounter in life. As a future educator, I can use flexible
grouping strategies that allow students to work with peers who have similar
interests or learning styles. This can enhance collaboration and provide a
supportive environment for exploration.

Processing

Read carefully and answer the following questions.

1. Based on your interviews with internal school stakeholders on how to

promote a gender-sensitive school/classroom, which of the answers is the
best? Why?
Among those internal school stakeholders, the best answer to promote a
gender-sensitive school or in classroom is the
2. How will you determine the strengths and weaknesses of your students?
By observing their behavior and attitudes inside the classroom and how
they react to that particular thing. Also, by observing during class
activities, discussions, and group work. However, determining the
strengths and weaknesses of your students is a crucial aspect of effective
teaching. It enables you to modify your education to fit each student's
unique needs and supports pupils in reaching their full learning potential.
3. Which among the steps on creating a progressive, student-centered
classroom is the best step? Why?
The best step in creating a progressive student-centered classroom is to
replace homework with engaging in-class activities and involve students in
evaluation because I believe that these steps can help students grow and
enhance their engagement to become productive individuals.
4. How are you going to use the learners' needs and interests in creating a
more effective instruction?
By incorporating these strategies, I can create a more learner-centered
and effective instructional experience that is tailored to the unique
 characteristics and preferences of my audience. Encourage collaboration
and group activities that allow learners to share their perspectives and
interests. This can create a more dynamic and engaging learning
environment.

Reflection

Complete the following:

1. I realized that it is important to assess your student's strengths and

weaknesses and the data collected should inform your instructional
decisions. I can develop a well-rounded understanding of each student's
learning profile and provide targeted support to help them succeed. As a
future teacher, I must be aware of their strength and weaknesses to
carefully protect their feelings and sensitivity.
2. I believe that understanding the diverse characteristics of learners,
including their gender, needs, strengths, interests, and experiences, is
essential for effective and inclusive teaching. Providing them with
differentiated instruction to address diverse learning styles, abilities, and
preferences. At some point, incorporate different and engaging activities
that allow students to showcase and build on their strengths.
3. I feel that I need to pay attention when it comes to their diverse needs,
and characteristics and the social and emotional well-being of the
students. Ensure that classroom materials, technology, and instructional
methods are accessible to all students.
4. When I become a teacher, I will value diversity and individuality, and I
create a more inclusive and effective learning environment for all students.
Create customized lesson plans for learners who have unique
requirements or characteristics. Moreover, establish a classroom
environment where all students are respected and their experiences are
valued. Being a teacher someday I will use students' interests to make
learning more relevant and engaging.
LESSON 2 Learners' Linguistic, Cultural, Socio-economic, and
Religious Backgrounds

Observation

A. Ask your cooperating teacher for a copy of his or her School Form 1

(School Register). Paste a copy of the School Form 1 in the box below

and answer the following questions.

1. What is the grade and section that you have observed?
I observed the grade 8 students and 5 sections which are ONYX, SSC,
RUBY, SPA, and DIAMOND.
2. How many boys and girls are there?
The overall total of boys is 89 and the girls are 123. For the grade 8
ONYX, there are 21 boys and 20 girls. For the SSC there are 15 boys and
23 girls. For the RUBY there are 15 boys and 27 girls. For the SPA there
are 15 boys and 32 girls. And lastly, the DIAMOND there are 23 boys and
21 girls.
3. What is the religion of the majority of the students?
The religion of the majority of the students that were handled is
Christianity or Roman Catholicism.

4. What is the common mother tongue of the students?

 The common mother tongue of the students is Cebuano or davawenyo.

5. Does the class have a student who belongs to an ethnic group?

Yes, there are some students who belong to an ethnic group.

B. List down 10 strategies your cooperating teacher can use to address the

individual differences (linguistic, cultural, socio-economic, and religious

backgrounds) of the students.

Strategy 1: Ask open-ended questions for them to share their thoughts

individually.

Strategy 2: Let students share their other solutions/steps/processes in

the class that will lead to the same answer.

Strategy 3: Through an interview or ask various questions one by one in

the class.

Strategy 4: Think-pair-share can also be one of the strategies.

Strategy 5: Let them write or share their individual learnings/reflections

from the topic.

Strategy 6: Let students’ study freely depending on their style.

Strategy 7: Conduct various games/activities in the class.

Strategy 8: Giving many tasks but letting them select what to do /answer

in Math activities.

Strategy 9: Give word problems and let them share what they

understand.

Strategy 10: Assign roles to each member of the group in grouping

activities.

C. Ask the cooperating teacher about how he or she gives importance to

differentiated instruction in his or her classes.

 Answer: She said that she somehow customized teaching
strategies/activities to suit multiple forms of intelligence.

Other comments and observations:

As I observed my cooperating teacher is hands-on in terms of handling
her students she had the strategies that will her as well as the students
she can still manage and handle their number. Remember that creating an
inclusive learning environment is an ongoing process that requires
responsiveness and a commitment to meeting the diverse needs of every
learner in the classroom. Regularly seeking feedback from students and
adapting teaching strategies accordingly can contribute to a more
inclusive and effective educational experience. Eventually, teachers must
have a thorough understanding of different backgrounds in order to
provide inclusive and productive learning environments.

Processing
Read carefully and answer the following questions.
1. Does the number of boys and girls affect the classroom instruction? How?
Yes, the number of boys and girls affects the classroom instructions
because when my cooperating teacher discusses the topic or the lesson
sometimes the group of boys does not listen rather they discuss unrelated
or other business. The arrangement of the seats for both boys and girls is
not so proper that’s why most of them not listening.
2. Does the religious background of the students affect the preparation of the
lesson? How?
There is no other religion besides Christianity so it doesn’t affect the
preparation of the students in their lesson.
3. Does the mother tongue of most of the students affect the medium of
instruction? How?
The mother tongue of most of the students doesn’t affect the medium of
instruction because all of the students can speak the medium of
instruction and they can understand each other.
4. Do the socio-economic differences of the students affect their learning?
How?
Yes, socio-economic differences can significantly impact students'
learning experiences and outcomes. Socioeconomic status can influence
access to educational resources such as books, technology, and
 extracurricular activities. Also, stressors that affect students' capacity to
concentrate on learning might be attributed to socioeconomic
circumstances.
5. Are contextualization, localization, and indigenization of the curricula being
done to fit the cultural background of the students?
Yes, in education, contextualization, localization, and indigenization of
curriculum are crucial factors to consider to guarantee that the material is
meaningful, pertinent, and considerate of the cultural backgrounds of
pupils.

Reflection
Complete the following:
1. I realized that the use of effective teaching strategies is crucial for
fostering student growth and development across various domains,
including academic, social, and emotional. Moreover, supporting students
and progressively raising the bar on difficulty enable them to improve on
the information and abilities they already possess. Therefore, we must set
and monitor their academic and personal goals to instill a sense of
responsibility and self-activation.
2. I believe that students have different requirements and learning styles,
which can be accommodated by using a range of teaching tactics.
Efficient tactics not only improve academic performance but also support
students' overall growth, setting them up for success in a world that is
changing quickly and becoming more linked.
3. I feel that strategic teaching practices can indeed play a crucial role in
assessing and addressing the diverse linguistic, cultural, socioeconomic,
and religious backgrounds of learners. When I became a teacher effective
strategy really helped me to do and make activities that they can enjoy
while learning.
4. When I become a teacher, I will acknowledge and value the variety of
needs, learning styles, and backgrounds that their students have as an
educator who appreciates differentiated education. Differentiated
education must be implemented by adjusting assessments, content, and
teaching strategies to each student's unique needs.
 LESSON 3 Learners with Disabilities, Giftedness, and Talents

Observation

A. Interview the following internal school stakeholders on how they deal with
students with disability and gifted learners.

How do you deal with learners with disability

Internal Stakeholders and giftedness?
Name of the School
Principal: Gernaldine O. Perez, EdD

Name of the Classroom It’s not literally those with disability and
Adviser: Christine Joy L. Pelegrino giftedness but she can consider those who are
very slow learners. She lets his/her close friend
teach the basics until progress is evident.
Name of the Guidance
Counselor: Hanna Hechelle M.
Bermejo Teacher I

B. Sit in a class with exceptional learners. Observe how the teacher uses
different strategies in teaching exceptional learners. List down five
observations.
Observation 1: She employs a variety of teaching methods and materials
to address different learning styles. This includes visual aids, hands-on
activities, auditory cues, and technology-based resources to provide
multiple entry points for understanding.

Observation 2: She makes small group activities or peer partnerships

provide opportunities for exceptional learners to work with their peers and
receive support.

Observation 3: She establishes a welcoming and respectful learning

environment that is promoted by the instructor for all of the students.
 Promoting awareness, empathy, and comprehension throughout the class
is part of this.

Observation 4: She gives regular, helpful feedback while keeping a close

eye on the development of exceptional students. This continuing
evaluation assists in identifying areas of strength and those that could
require more assistance or adjustment.

Observation 5: The teacher integrates and provides assistive technology

tools to facilitate learning for exceptional learners. so that students can
quickly absorb the lesson that the instructor covered.

C. Watch the film, Every Child is Special. After watching the movie, write a
reflection about the film.

Every Child is Special

Directed by Aamir Khan, "Every Child is Special," often referred to

as "Taare Zameen Par," is a moving Indian film. Ishaan Awasthi, the
film's protagonist, is a dyslexic boy whose unique style of learning is not
acknowledged or supported by the conventional educational system. The
film delves into the difficulties this child endures. The film's compelling
story raises awareness of the difficulties faced by kids who have learning
disabilities. It acts as a reminder of the value of comprehension, empathy,
and the necessity of an inclusive learning environment. Moreover, "Every
Child is Special" highlights how learning disabilities, especially dyslexia,
are often overlooked or misinterpreted. The importance of parents and
educators appreciating and recognizing the variety of learning styles is
emphasized in the movie.

The film explores the pressure and expectations parents place on

their children to conform to societal norms. It prompts reflection on the
importance of understanding a child's individual strengths and
weaknesses rather than forcing them into predefined molds. In
conclusion, "Every Child is Special" is not just a movie; it's a poignant
exploration of the potential within each child and a call to reform
educational systems to accommodate diverse learning needs. It leaves a
lasting impact, urging viewers to reflect on their roles as parents,
educators, and members of a society that should embrace and celebrate
the uniqueness of every child. The movie is ultimately a story of hope and
redemption. A very inspiring and powerful moral behind this movie is
“Every Child is Special”.
Other comments and observations:

As I observed to my cooperating teacher she is very hands-on when it comes to

teaching. The strategies that she used are suitable and good for the level of
knowledge and skills of the grade 8 students. The varied requirements of
children, including those who are exceptional, talented, or disabled, must be
considered by educators in an inclusive learning environment. An equal and
stimulating learning environment is fostered by customizing instruction to these
kids' specific needs.

Processing

Read carefully and answer the following questions.

1. How do the answers of the school principal, classroom adviser, and

guidance counselor on dealing with exceptional learners differ from each
other?

2. Based on your five observations on how a teacher uses a strategy in

teaching learners with disability and giftedness, which strategy is the best?
Why?
When I observed my cooperating teacher, she used a strategy in teaching
learners with disability and giftedness, among the five strategies to handle
various learning styles, I believe the most effective approach was the way
she used a range of teaching techniques and resources. Multiple entry
points for comprehension are provided by the use of visual aids,
interactive exercises, auditory clues, and technology-based resources.
Further, she is the kind of teacher who is considerate when their students
are slow learners.
3. What have you realized after watching the film Every Child is Special?
After watching the film Every Child is Special I’ve realized that every child

4. Write a slogan to promote inclusive learning in the Philippines.

 "Empowering Minds, Promoting Diversity and Discover Hope: Inclusive
Learning for All in the Philippines!"

Reflection

Complete the following:

1. I realized that observing different strategies implemented in the classroom

provides insights into the teacher's commitment to inclusivity and their
ability to create an environment where exceptional learners can thrive. It
also highlights the importance of ongoing professional development and
collaboration to effectively support the diverse needs of students.
2. I believe that all children benefit from a more equal and fulfilling
educational experience when educators adopt an inclusive approach that
acknowledges and meets the many needs of students with disabilities,
giftedness, and skills.
3. I feel that the key components of developing an inclusive learning
environment include personalized instruction, individualized support, and a
dedication to building a supportive learning community. Regular
communication and collaboration with special education professionals
help ensure that the needs of students with disabilities are adequately
addressed.
4. When I become a teacher, I will be observant of my students’ actions and
what they do during class hours to provide for their needs they aim. This
proactive strategy can play a major role in establishing a helpful and
productive learning environment. Throughout class, I close attention to my
students' actions and behaviors to make sure I am aware of their unique
needs and goals. I want to provide the right kind of assistance and foster
an inclusive learning environment where every kid may succeed by getting
to know their individual needs and aspirations.
LESSON 4 Learners in Difficult Circumstances

Observation
A. Interview the students on the difficulties they encounter while enrolled in
school. List down 10 difficulties on the lines provided.
1. They are facing economic challenges and may experience stress related to
finances.
2. Limited access to technology for remote learning. Don’t have a budget to
buy smartphones and other devices that are useful for study.
3. Family issues create emotional distress, impacting a student's ability to
focus on academics.
4. Bullying or social exclusion that affects students' mental well-being and
academic performance.
5. Most of the students say that the comfort room is not clean and smells bad.
6. The broken and stainable chairs students are not comfortable sitting on.
7. Limited access to reliable technology and the internet may struggle with
online learning assignments.
8. Lack of confidence to connect with their classmates.
9. Their transportation when they go to school, students hard to find a vehicle
to arrive at the school.
10. The environment is overpopulated and there are some outsiders that go
inside the campus that will be harmful to the good students.

B. Interview the cooperating teacher. Ask how he or she considers the

different difficult circumstances faced by the students in preparing lessons
and strategies.
Answer: According to her, think ahead. Think of some questions they
might ask within the process of planning that’s why you must personalize
the learning methods and make it easy/easier step by step.

C. Create a poster-slogan promoting a diverse and responsive classroom.

Processing

A. Read carefully and answer the following questions.

1. Based on this lesson, what is the most heroic task of the teacher?
I've read that molding excellent citizens is the most heroic duty of mentors
or teachers. The growth of self-worth and a feeling of agency, as well as
the effective handling of life's transitions and issues like discrimination and
bullying, are all facilitated by being a good citizen. It gives them a voice in
society, their neighborhoods, and their schools. The teachers must display
students' respect for individuals and their property, respect for school
property, and good character because teachers serve as role models for
every student around the world.

2. Among the different difficult circumstances given by the students, which is

the most complicated? Why?
I think the most complicated among the different difficult circumstances
given by the students is bullying or social exclusion because some
students can’t control their feelings and emotions which may lead to
depression and fear of the students who are being bullied.
 B. In your own opinion, what is the best strategy to use when teaching a
student with chronic disorder?
In my own opinion, the best strategy to use when teaching a student with
chronic disorders is to guide them in a good way and provide them with an
activity that is suitable for their health. I shall address the learner's needs
while assisting them in avoiding estrangement.

Reflection
Complete the following:
1. I realized that giving students' demands in a classroom setting some
flexibility helps them meet the varied needs of struggling students.
Different learning environments, a range of teaching strategies, and
tailored support could be part of this.

2. I believe that implementing inclusive assessment practices considers the

diverse needs of learners, allowing for varied assessment formats and
recognizing different forms of achievement. By allowing for a variety of
assessment methods and acknowledging many forms of achievement,
inclusive assessment techniques consider the unique requirements of
learners.

3. I feel that the diverse students have different difficulties encountered in the
school being a teacher you must have the strategies to address their
needs. By attending to the special needs of students who are facing
challenging situations, teachers help to build a more welcoming and
encouraging learning environment.

4. When I become a teacher, I will usually follow up with my students to see

if they are having trouble understanding the material since it is always
preferable to know about their health and circumstances because it is the
most crucial information to have.
 LESSON 5: Learners from Indigenous Groups

Observation

A. Based on the class that you have observed, list down 10 students who
belong to IP groups. Fill in the information below.

Name Grade and IP Group Province

Section
1 STUDENT (A) 8 - Onyx Mangguangan DDO
2 STUDENT (B) 8 – Onyx Mangguangan DDO

3 STUDENT (C) 8 – Onyx Dibabawon DDO

4 STUDENT (D) 8 - Onyx Mangguangan DDO

5 STUDENT (E) 8 – Onyx Mandaya DDO

6 STUDENT (F) 8– Onyx Mangguangan DDO

7 STUDENT (G) 8 – Onyx Manobo DDO

8 STUDENT (H) 8 – Onyx Mandaya DDO

9 STUDENT (I) 8 – Ruby Mangguangan DDO

1 STUDENT (J) 8 – Ruby Dibabawon DDO

0

B. Evaluate the school's programs for IPs by checking ( ) the box that

corresponds to what you have observed in class.

DepEd Mandates Yes No
1 Ensures the provision of universal and equitable access of all 
IPs to quality and relevant basic education services towards
functional literacy for all.
2 Adopts appropriate basic education pedagogy, content, and 
assessment through the integration of IKSPs in all learning
areas and process.
3 Provides adequate and culturally appropriate learning 
resources and environment to IP learners.
4 Strengthens the hiring, deployment, and continuous 
development of teachers and learning facilitators in the
 implementation of the IP Education Program.
5 Establishes and strengthens appropriate multi-level units 
responsible for planning, implementing, and monitoring IP
education interventions,
6 Expands and strengthens institutional and civil society linkages 
to ensure proper coordination, knowledge-sharing, and
sustainability of the IP Education Program.
7 Implements stronger affirmative action to eradicate all forms of 
discrimination against IPs in the Philippine educational system.

C. Interview the cooperating teacher. List down five culturally-responsive

teaching strategies he or she are using for students from Indigenous
Groups.

Teaching Strategy 1: To integrate situations/examples where they can

relate.

Teaching Strategy 2: Not just doing an interview and knowing their ethnicity;

Teaching Strategy 3: But also boosting their confidence to have cultural

pride.

Teaching Strategy 4: Being fascinated by learning their practices.

Teaching Strategy 5: Recognize their positivity.

Other comments and observations:

Based on my observations, they give importance and the right treatment

among the students that belong to an indigenous people. They ensure the
provision of universal and equitable access of all IPs to quality and relevant
basic education services towards functional literacy for all. The aim is to
guarantee that all Indigenous Peoples have equal and universal access to
high-quality basic education programs that are pertinent to their communities,
encouraging functional literacy and inclusivity for all students.

Processing
Read carefully and answer the following questions.
 1. Why is it necessary to create the IPED Curriculum Framework?
It is necessary to create the IPED Curriculum Framework to ensure that
the educational content and materials are culturally relevant and sensitive
to the specific needs, traditions, and values of Indigenous Peoples. It
acknowledges the diverse cultural contexts of these communities. In
addition to addressing historical injustices, it supports Indigenous students'
full development, self-determination, and sense of pride.
2. What school program would you recommend to the school administrators
to address the needs of IPs?
It is recommended that school administrators consider establishing a
complete curriculum that is culturally responsive in order to effectively
address the needs of Indigenous Peoples (IPs). Work together with
educators, leaders, and people of the Indigenous community to create a
curriculum that honors the cultural identity, traditions, and values of the
Indigenous Peoples in the area. Make sure that indigenous languages,
customs, and knowledge are included.
3. Based on the list you made in the previous activity, most of the students
belong to what particular indigenous group? Why do you think so?
Most of the students belong to the Mangguangan Tribe because in Davao
de Oro a lot of Indigenous People still exist such as Dibabawon, Mandaya,
and Manobo but Mangguangan is mighty.

Reflection

Complete the following:

1. I realized that by implementing a program that encompasses these

elements, school administrators can create an educational environment
that respects and addresses the unique needs of Indigenous Peoples. For
Indigenous students, this strategy encourages a more welcoming,
culturally aware, and productive learning environment.
2. I believe that in order to comprehend the needs and goals of the nearby
Indigenous communities, form close partnerships with them. Include
people in the community in the planning of the entire educational program,
including the formulation of the curriculum.
3. I feel that indigenous students will feel prouder and a part of the school
community if it actively celebrates their cultural festivals, holidays, and
customs. I know that the indigenous people are the people willing to serve
the country because of their undying support and love for our nation.
4. When I become a teacher, I will provide professional development for
teachers on culturally inclusive teaching practices. This includes training
on culturally responsive pedagogy, understanding diverse learning styles,
and respecting traditional teaching methods. Also, design a holistic
education program that addresses not only academic needs but also the
social, emotional, and physical well-being of students.