Spring 2025Modifying 1st Grade Oklahoma Science Curriculum
Portland State University
This curriculum addressed a problem I identified in the existing OKCPS map: cross-curricular integration had sidelined hands-on science. My solution was a supplement, not a replacement—short, daily activities that fit within the existing pacing guide.
The most challenging part was translating abstract physics (vibrations, transparency, refraction) into concrete experiences for six-year-olds: rice jumping on plastic wrap, flashlights and sorting games, rainbows from CDs. Every activity prioritizes lived experience over explanation.
The cross-curricular extensions taught me that science doesn't compete with literacy—it drives it. A first grader who builds a shadow puppet and writes a script learns both at once. Good curriculum design is not about adding work for teachers. It is about giving them tools that make their existing work more effective and joyful.
Competencies
Content Development/Content Management
Subject Matter Familiarity
Audience Awareness/Analysis
Written Communication
Visual Communication
Research
Project Planning/Project Management
Editing
Technologies
Google Docs
PBS Learning Media
Children’s Learning Literature Databases
Basic Science Equipment
Personal Characteristics
Detail-Oriented
Analytical/Critical Thinking
Detail-Oriented
Organization
Independence/Initiative
Problem Solving
Flexibility
Spring 2025Recommendation Report: Changing Oklahoma State Department of Education Social Studies Standards Using a Social Justice Framework
Portland State University
This recommendation report was the culmination of six weeks OF analyzing various technical communication frameworks and applying them to technical communication problems. From there we picked a problem and a framework to adapt and resolve this problem. For my project, I chose to take the current Oklahoma State Department of Education’s 3rd grade Social Studies standards and adapt them using a social justice framework. This document shows my competence in understanding educational materials presented at the national level, and my ability to provide solutions in the field of education.
Competencies
Written Communication
Research
Subject Matter Familiarity
Audience Awareness/ Analysis
Visual Communication
Editing
Technologies
Google Docs
Citation Management Tools
PDF Readers
Image Capture Tools
Personal Characteristics
Analytical/ Critical Thinking
Independence/ Initiative
Detail-Oriented
Learning
Creativity
Summer 2022Creating Environmental Curriculum
Great Hollow Nature Preserve & Yale University
This summer camp curriculum was a lesson in adaptation. I created weekly themed units with daily lesson plans, slide decks, and hands-on activities. But the real challenge was modification: the same content had to work for 1st-3rd graders and 4th-6th graders. For younger students, I simplified THE language and added more movement breaks; for older students, I deepened the science and added independent challenges like map making and fire starting (supervised). The most valuable part was planning for the unexpected. Rain plans meant designing indoor versions of outdoor activities. Different age groups meant having backup questions and extension activities ready. Coordinating with co-counselors meant dividing themes and trusting each other to deliver.
Competencies
Content Development/ Content Management
Subject Matter Familiarity
Audience Awareness/ Analysis
Visual Communication
User Research
Research
Collaboration
Technologies
Google Docs
Google Slides
Google Sheets
Printer/Scanner
Image Sourcing
Nature Identification Guides
Basic Science Equipment
Personal Characteristics
Creativity
Flexibility
Problem Solving
Interpersonal
Time Management/ Deadlines
Leadership