Providing Instruction Through an Integrated Curriculum: Making Connections
An “integrated curriculum” is not a new idea. It makes connections within and between subjects, using knowledge and skills from one discipline and applying it to others. An integrated curriculum begins to teach children the ability to make connections, to solve problems by looking at multiple perspectives, and to incorporate information from different fields. Students engage in creative, rigorous activities that prepare them for the love of life-long learning.
An integrated curriculum includes some or all of the following elements: combining subject matter, emphasizing project based learning, using materials and tools beyond textbooks (field trips, guest speakers, on-line research, etc.), activities that cross disciplines, varied schedules, and flexible student groupings.
All students have different learning styles which multiple activities can better accommodate. We support our teachers in integrating subjects, traditional and more unconventional, by providing training, planning time and other resources. Content knowledge, becoming engaged, thoughtful learners are the result.
