Transcript Power Point on the Principles of Powerful Teaching and learning

Principles of
Powerful Teaching and
Learning
for Social Studies
EDEL 420
Susan M. Connolly
Meaningful
 Connected
to students’ lives inside and
outside of school
 Depth of understanding of key concepts:
teach for understanding, appreciation, life
application
 Sustained focus and examination on a few
key concepts rather than superficial
coverage of many
Meaningful Activities and
Assessment
 Activities
focus student’s attention on the
most important ideas
 Assessments match activities: Authentic,
classroom based, on-going
Integrative
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Topics integrate more than one discipline
Topics integrate across time (eras) and space
(locations)
Teaching integrates knowledge, skills, beliefs,
values, attitudes, and leads to action
Includes effective use of technology
Teaching integrates across the curriculum: Math,
literacy (reading and writing), science…….
Value-Based
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The controversial issues and ethical dimensions
of topics are viewed from the perspective of
concern for the common good and application of
common, democratic social values
Emphasizes critical thinking
Recognizes variety of views
Respect for well-supported perspectives
Sensitivity to cultural similarities and differences
Commitment to social responsibility
Active
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For the teacher, active teaching requires
reflective thinking and decision-making AS
events unfold during teaching
Students actively involved in AUTHENTIC
knowledge constructing activities
Includes interactive discourse
Teacher’s role moves from guiding, modeling,
explaining, giving information………….
TO supporting student-led discovery,
independence
Challenging
 Students
expected to accomplish the
learning goals – both as individuals and as
groups
 Teachers show respect for students’
thinking but demand (define this..) well
reasoned arguments. THINK IT
THROUGH
 Teachers model thoughtful inquiry and
support similar qualities in the students
Acknowledgments
 Expectations
of Excellence: Curriculum
Standards for Social Studies