Session 3: Putting it all together

Description of Session 3

Session 3 includes an interactive video presentation about building curriculum that aligns to quality standards for diverse learners through Thematic Curriculum (TC) and Project Based Learning (PBL).  Sample plans are provided along with blank lesson planning forms to create a theme and aligned project for a teaching lab and discussion.After completing the session return to the Early Education Development Home Page to browse other course offerings.

If this course is being taken to document Professional Development hours, use the checklist on the menu to the left.

Video Presentation

This narrated interactive video presentation below will summarize the Diversity and ELD course and how to develop a thematic project based curriculum.  Please review the curricula samples. Click on the title to load the presentation:

• Curriculum Design. Thematic Curriculum (TC), and Project Based Learning (PBL)

Sample Documentation

The next step is to apply the curriculum in the classroom and reflect on what worked and what needs adjustment. Below are three examples using a "Medieval Times" theme with "Great Joust" project, adapted for different age groups and three blank form to use for practice.

• Sample Thematic Curriculum Plan K-4
• Sample Thematic Curriculum Plan Middle School
• Sample Thematic Curriculum Plan Summer (K-2)

Blank Planning forms:

• Blank Curriculum Plan Form
• Book Based Planning
• Lesson Plan Template

Sample Discussion: Teaching Lab

The following Teaching Lab can be used for self-paced learners, groups in-person or online.  If this course is being taken to document Professional Development hours, use the checklist on the left to document course activity completion.

1. Review the activity you created in an earlier assignment
2. Review feedback and revise as needed
3. Teach the activity in your program
4. Consider the following reflection questions after teaching: 
   
• How did it go?  What went well?  What didn’t go as you wanted?
• What impact do you think you had on the literacy skills of the children in your group?

Recommended directions for online learners would be:

"Post your response [in the discussion section]. Once you have responded to both questions, post a reply to two other learners.  You may choose to respond to learners who have posted about the same child scenario or others."

Sample Theme and Aligned Project

The following Project can be used for self-paced learners, groups in-person or online. If this course is being taken to document Professional Development hours, use the checklist on the left to document course activity completion.

1. Review the sample activity you taught 
   
2. Review your thoughts about the children in your group or classroom
3. Choose a theme and link the activity to the theme (okay to modify if needed).  Remember you can use the blank planning form in the folder above.
4. Create at least two more activities aligned to the theme and to the best practices you’ve been learning about
5. Create a project-based learning plan to align with the theme
6. Make sure your activities include:
• Alignment to various learning styles and needs
• Alignment to WIDA
• Alignment to MA-CF
• Alignment to UDL

Recommended directions for online learners would be:

"Post your response [in the discussion section]. Once you have responded to both questions, post a reply to two other learners.  You may choose to respond to learners who have posted about the same child scenario or others."