Standard 3: Content and Curriculum Expertise

Teacher leaders have a deep knowledge of the subjects they teach and understanding of curriculum theory and development. They value collaboration and the interconnectedness of disciplines. They understand the importance of curriculum relevance in engaging students in content. Indicators are:

1. IRA Standards Matrix

Context:
This artifact was created as part of class RE 5525, Product of Learning, under the instruction of Dr. Woodrow Trathen.  The matrix documents how the standards for Reading Language Arts from the International Reading Association have been met through my education in Appalachian's Reading Education Master's Program.  I aligned each standard with artifacts from the master's program and accompanied a rationale statement as to how that standard was addressed by the artifact.

Rationale:
This artifact shows I have gained a deep understanding of the reading and writing processes through the master's program in Reading Education at Appalachian State University and that I understand the importance of curriculum relevance in engaging students in content.  Furthermore, the matrix demonstrates my in-depth knowledge of curriculum, instruction, and assessment in reading, writing and spelling. It also demonstrates my ability to integrate the 21st century content and skills into educational practices.  The Matrix shows the relevant and rigorous curriculum I gained through Appalachian's Master's in Reading Education Program.  I have met the criteria to be deemed a highly qualified literacy teacher.

 

2. RE - 5730 Integrated Unit

Context:

This artifact was created as part of a class RE 5730, Reading and Writing Instruction for Intermediate and Advanced Learners, under the instruction of Dr. Carla Meyer. This integrated unit is based on the book Lily's Crossing by Patricia Reilly Giff. I chose this book because it directly correlates to the North Carolina Standard Course of Study for sixth grade and is a Newberry Honor book that contains many themes students can relate to.

Rationale:

This unit was designed to meet standards from the North Carolina Standard Course of Study for sixth grade and integrates social studies and language arts instruction. Throughout the unit, students engage in a variety of different learning techniques and strategies while working with classmates in whole class, small group, and individual settings. This unit requires students to apply what they learn from the book to different activities that demonstrate their understanding of the text and its content. Students use technology by completing an Internet workshop and using child-friendly websites to complete some of the required aspects of the unit. This unit is an example of my commitment to creating quality lessons that engage students and integrate subjects while meeting standards required by the North Carolina Standard Course of Study.