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:

Context:
This IRA Standards Matrix 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.

Novel Unit: 

Context: In RE 5730, I learned the importance of creating an integrated unit that lends itself to a variety of disciplines. Having always worked with young students, I challenged myself with a novel for older students and produced a comprehensive novel unit using Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli. It incorporated poetry, comparative language arts, vocabulary study, creative writing, literature circles, graphic organizers, and project based learning. It also provided detailed lessons, assessment techniques, and rubrics for teachers to use and easily implement in their classrooms. This link shows a portion of the many resources incorporated in this unit geared toward middle school teachers.

Rationale:
Due to my personal experience, my teaching tendencies are towards younger audiences. This project invited me to step outside of my comfort zone and create unique learning experiences for older students. This assignment inspired me to do novel units with older students in the future because I realized how enjoyable and all encompassing reading a novel could be. From one book, there are so many learning opportunities that can be gained.  This particular novel unit demonstrates my ability to demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of curriculum, instruction, and assessment. I developed a relevant and rigorous curriculum that not only lends itself to literacy skills but important social studies topics as well.