UDL's Three Strategic Networks In Action: Lesson Planning and Instruction

Based on information presented on the site  http://www.cast.org/udl/index.html, I have 

discussed the three strategic networks of UDL: affective (the why), recognition (the what), 

and strategic (the how). The CAST site also provides specific examples showing how 

these networks are connected to instruction and offering ways to incorporate these UDL

principles into lesson planning and instruction.  

Affective-Provide Multiple Means of Engagement

As teachers plan instruction, it is critical to provide options for stimulating students' interest, 

promoting persistent effort, and self-monitoring.  Allowing students autonomy in the 

learning process is crucial.  Because of my past experience in early literacy, I am 

attracted to Sylvan's free online "Book Adventure" program for students K-8.  In this reading 

motivation program, students self-select books from over 7,000 titles to read and to create 

their own personal books lists. Students take online quizzes and earn prizes for reading 

success.  As I observed in my experience at Tredyffrin Library's Children's Department, this 

UDL principle of self-selection greatly increases motivation, commitment, and enthusiasm 

about reading.

Recognition-Provide Multiple Means of Representation

Teachers must also consider ways to provide a variety of options in perception, language, 

mathematical expressions, symbols, and comprehension.  As a Title 1 elementary school 

reading instructor, I found that students with relevant background knowledge about a book 

had increased comprehension.  "Digging for Answers," a free online site by the 

Smithsonian Institute, offers lively and appealing quiz games for students K-8 to test their 

knowledge and increase their research skills.  If a student answers a question incorrectly, 

they are prompted to a link that provides appropriate background knowledge.  This UDL 

based site motivates students to seek new information and provides access to background 

information that will ultimately increase comprehension. 

Strategic-Provide Multiple Means of Action and Expression

When planning lessons, teachers must also include options for physical action, expression, 

communication, and executive function.  In my role at Cabrini, it is clear that students of all 

ages benefit from successful strategies for setting realistic and productive goals.  

Worksheetplace.com's  free goal-setting templates offer a clear and easy way for students 

in elementary and middle school to tackle this important executive functioning task.  These 

user-friendly templates support students' organizational skills and increase positive, 

productive self-motivation. The "Action for Goals" worksheet template shown below 

demonstrates how a student can set clear, specific, and self-determined goals and plan the 

specific actions necessary to achieve their goals.