One of the problems that educators face is that the curriculum documents are “set aside” and classroom instruction goes its own direction.  The “taught curriculum,” in that case, does not match the “written curriculum.” 

This workbook will help you to develop both lesson plans and units of study that will direct learning through backward planning which will balance teacher-directed instruction with group work, hands-on approaches, performance task and products.  Standards will be the center of the instruction.  Teaching strategies, thinking skills, multiple intelligences, anchors and assessment will be built around these standards.  This will allow the work to be aligned with the district’s curriculum make the learning relevant to the student.

The following model is part of the Performance-Based Learning and Assessment in Middle School Science philosophy.

Performance Tasks Embedded in Instruction

Standards Declarative Knowledge Information themes, Big Ideas, Essential Question Procedural Knowledge Thinking Skills/Reading Comprehension Problem-Solving Skills such as Writing Craft Skills for Products and Performance Work Habits

Curriculum {Performance Task & Assessment Tool} Teaching and Learning

Student Work

Analysis