Full Description
Curriculum integration disrupts traditional subject-by-subject structures in favour of more interdisciplinary approaches. While cross-curricular teaching and learning has promise, pathways to classroom practice are not always straightforward. In a rich exploration of curriculum integration, this book brings together global perspectives to examine its theoretical foundations and practical applications. The need to create meaningful learning experiences to support student achievement is prioritised throughout.
Divided into four key sections, the first introduces key debates and ideas, tracing the historical development of integration and exploring its philosophical underpinnings. The second section dives into disciplinary perspectives, showcasing how integration is applied across STEM, social studies, the arts, and wellbeing, whilst highlighting the risks and rewards of integration across diverse contexts. The final two sections focus on language and literacy integration, as well as the classroom as a dynamic site of practice. Packed full of practical guidance for designing integrated curricula, it emphasises the importance of teacher decision-making, learner interests, and classroom context. The crucial role of knowledge is also considered throughout the book.
Curriculum Integration in Primary Classrooms is an invaluable resource for educators, researchers, and policymakers alike, providing the tools and insights needed to navigate the complexities of curriculum integration in diverse educational settings. Far from prescribing a one-size-fits-all approach, this volume invites readers to critically reflect on what curriculum integration is, what it has been, and what it might become.
Contents
Section 1. Defining Curriculum Integration: Problems and Possibilities 1. Navigating Curriculum Integration: An Introduction 2. Mapping Curriculum Integration: Perspectives from Literature and Practice 3. Knowledge Structures: Implications for Curriculum Integration 4. Child-Centred Curriculum Integration in Theory and Practice: Lessons from Aotearoa New Zealand 5. Curriculum Integration: An Evidence-Based Approach? Section 2. Curriculum Integration in Action: Disciplinary Perspectives 6. STEM Unpacked: Frameworks, Features, and Classroom Challenges 7. Fractured, Stealthy, and Healthy Approaches to Integrating Social Studies: Insights from U.S. Classrooms 8. Integrated Arts Education: Exploring how the Arts Intersect Within and Across the School Curriculum 9. Integrating Approaches to Wellbeing in the Primary Curriculum Section 3. Language, Literacy and Learning: An Integrated Approach 10. How Integrated Literacy and Content-Area Instruction Improves Reading Outcomes in the Early Grades 11. Building Knowledge, Literacy and Integration: Insights from Practice in Upper Primary School 12. Learning through an Additional Language: Exploring the Possibilities of Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) Section 4. Putting Curriculum Integration into Practice: Insights for the Classroom 13. Pedagogy to Support Curriculum Integration: Learning from Research 14. Capturing Learning: The Difficulties of Assessment and Curriculum Integration 15. Integrating Learning, Teaching and Play in Primary School 16. Planning for Curriculum Integration: Practical Pathways and Classroom Examples 17. Integrating Perspectives on Curriculum Integration: Examining Why, What, How and When
