Content

Teachers have a broad knowledge, know the content appropriate to their specialty, understand the ways their teaching area connects to the broad curriculum, and know relevant applications of the content they teach.

-Wake Forest University's Conceptual Framework

As an educator I need to be familiar with the content expectations the state has outlined for each grade. Being proficient in the different subject areas will help me create more effective lessons that will connect the information across the curriculum. The North Carolina Professional Teaching Standards (NCPTS) sets guidelines for my conduct in the classroom. Sticking to the state established standard course of study is now more important than ever because of the ever increasing emphasis on testing. With all the testing it is crucial that I have a strong understanding of the disciplines I am required to teach, so I can aid the student’s development of the content as well as increase their awareness and relevance of the interconnected subject matter. Nowadays time is of the essence and being able to successfully integrate the different content areas with the help of technology not only prepares students for the future, but also helps me maximize my teaching time in the classroom.

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Here are some sample assignments I completed in my Integrating the Arts class.

One of my favorite and most practical assignments we completed was the Storysack. I took this assignment and implemented it in my classroom this fall with great results! The Storysack is a take-home sack that focuses on fun, multicultural and educational projects for the student and an adult to complete together. All of the materials were provided so each student could successfully complete the assignment In the sack I sent home with my kindergartners they had to either make a Pilgrim or Native American puppet, write what they were thankful for on a feather that would later be attached to a laminated turkey as well as review Thanksgiving terms.

This is a picture of one of the Storysacks that went home with my kindergartners in preparation for Thanksgiving:

Here is a Native American puppet sample:

Here is a Pilgrim puppet sample:

Here is a photo of the student's feathers attached to the laminated turkey:

Here is a photo of a student and their final product:

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Last updated: December 6, 2008