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2. Integrated Learning

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Resources for extending the learning

WHAT IS IT?

  • Pursue any topic or issue and opportunities arise to address expectations across multiple subjects. Following and using these learning opportunities is the essence of integrated learning.
  • The learning experience addresses and assesses content and skill expectations from two or more subjects.
  • At lower levels of integration distinct subjects are readily identifiable. In fully integrated investigations or projects, subject boundaries are transcended and no longer readily identifiable.

WHY USE IT?

  • Integrated learning makes addressing curriculum manageable by offering a means of addressing many subject expectations in a meaningful way.
  • It contributes to a deeper understanding of topics and issues, and the interrelationships inherent in complex, real-world systems.
  • It provides opportunities to differentiate instruction. The inclusion of multiple disciplines provides students with the opportunity to engage their particular interests or abilities.
  • Integrated learning enables more authentic assessment.

TIPS FOR TEACHERS

  • Most subject areas provide interesting topics and teachable moments to address literacy & numeracy.
  • Team-teaching allows colleagues to break down artificial subject barriers and present students with a more authentic experience of how knowledge is built and problems are solved.
  • Better still, a thematic teaching approach can unite curriculum and colleagues around a single topic and in doing so help students gain deeper understanding.
  • Action projects launched from just about any subject or content area provide excellent opportunities to incorporate knowledge and skills from across the curriculum.
  • Learning outcomes derived from field trips within the school neighbourhood or beyond  can easily include those associated with journal writing, drawing & photography, observing &  recording, and hypothesis testing to name a few.