Final Blog

When I started this class I was excited because it was one of the last classes I had in the program. I came into class expecting that we would be given several readings that vaguely related to current concepts in the classroom and write several papers on how they related to administration. This class broke that mold and gave me a new perspective on curriculum.

The class not only talked about how to be a change agent, but also showed us how to be a change agent. The class illustrated how curriculum should be a living document that challenges the student to think and spread that knowledge. The use of various technologies and methods illustrated the many ways in which we can impact change in our classroom. I think the class expanded the way I think about curriculum and illustrated how it can be an agent of change.

I think the lesson about understanding by design was extremely valuable. By creating the lesson I was able see how the big ideas should drive the lesson. I have tried to implement more of understanding by design into classroom, which has brought more focus to my lessons. Instead of having asking students to recite every step in a cycle, I want students to be able to give me the general idea about the concept and be able to explain why it is important. I feel that in today’s age students can always look up the information, but they need to be able to explain and justify their answers.

Curriculum change has not only changed my ideas about curriculum, but also shifted my views of technology. It has expanded my technology skills and shown that it needs to play an intragal part in schools.

Orange Middle School

I think that Orange is taking steps in the right direction. Breaking up the middle school into small learning communities allows teachers to focus on a set group of students and track their progress. Allowing these teams to meet enables them to focus on strategies that might help the students. I also agree with the school extending math to an eighty-minute block, but the school should ensure that the teachers are prepared to use that time effectively. As stated in the reading, middle school students are restless and need to have physical activity. The teachers should have lessons that allow the students to get up and move throughout the period to keep the students focused. The teacher throwing around the basketball is a good example of activities that will allow the students to remain engaged. The administration should also look to infuse some bullying and social skill workshops for the students that might decrease the social problems in the school.