Creating a Year-long Theme: A Teacher's Journey

Using a unified concept for an entire year of teaching is an excellent way to show children that all subjects are relevant and related while engaging the classroom community in an exciting learning adventure. Children naturally respond to a theme-based approach to learning as it stimulates their imagination and encourages them to look beyond the basic curriculum. Provided in this thorough and thought-provoking approach to curriculum planning are field-tested worksheets and step-by-step instructions geared for teachers and administrators of all levels. It includes ideas for transforming a classroom-into a jungle or a ship on a maiden voyage, for example-by incorporating all subjects, including the physical classroom. A special section on making the transition from a single-aged to a multi-aged classroom details how using a year-long theme can unify two grade levels under one roof.