Curriculum Planning & Instructional Strategies Flashcards

According to Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles, how should a preschool teacher present new information?

Answer: Using multiple means of representation to reach diverse learners

UDL calls for multiple means of representation—visual, auditory, kinesthetic—so that all learners can access the content in ways that work for them.

A teacher plans a lesson where children graph the colors of apples they taste. Which domains does this activity integrate?

Answer: Math, science, literacy, fine motor, and social skills

Graphing apple colors integrates math (data collection), science (observation), language (vocabulary), fine motor (writing/coloring), and social skills (sharing and comparing).

What is the role of 'intentional teaching' in a play-based preschool curriculum?

Answer: The teacher purposefully choosing when to observe, when to scaffold, and when to extend learning during play

Intentional teaching means the teacher makes deliberate, informed decisions about when and how to support, extend, or step back during play-based learning.

A preschool teacher is writing weekly lesson plans. Which component is essential for ensuring instruction is aligned with learning standards?

Answer: Identifying specific learning objectives linked to early childhood standards for each activity

Effective lesson planning requires identifying specific, measurable learning objectives that are explicitly connected to early childhood education standards.

Which teaching strategy is most effective for building preschoolers' expressive vocabulary?

Answer: Embedding rich vocabulary in context through read-alouds, conversation, and play with follow-up use

Vocabulary is best developed through rich contextual exposure in read-alouds and conversations, with repeated use of new words across multiple meaningful contexts.

A teacher uses KWL charts (Know, Want to know, Learned) with preschoolers at the start and end of a unit. What is the primary purpose?

Answer: To activate and build on prior knowledge and help children reflect on their learning

KWL charts activate prior knowledge, give children agency in directing their learning, and promote metacognitive reflection on what was learned.

A teacher notices that a small group of children consistently finishes activities quickly and seems understimulated. The most appropriate curriculum response is to:

Answer: Create extension challenges or enrichment activities that deepen rather than accelerate content

Enrichment activities that deepen conceptual understanding are more appropriate than acceleration or busywork for young children who are ahead of peers.