Spring 2025

Modifying 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 2025

Recommendation 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 2022

Creating 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

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