MTEL Curriculum Development and Design 5

Question 1

A school adopts a competency-based curriculum model. What is the defining feature of this approach?

Accepted Answer

Students progress upon demonstrating mastery of defined competencies

Answer

Competency-based curricula require students to demonstrate mastery of specific skills or knowledge before advancing, rather than progressing by time spent.

Question 2

Which curriculum design approach organizes learning around student interests and real-life experiences rather than academic disciplines?

Accepted Answer

Learner-centered design

Answer

Learner-centered curriculum design places student interests, needs, and experiences at the core of instructional planning.

Question 3

A curriculum coordinator is conducting a needs assessment before revising the science curriculum. What is the PRIMARY purpose of a needs assessment?

Accepted Answer

To identify gaps between current student performance and desired outcomes

Answer

A needs assessment identifies the discrepancy between where students currently are and where the curriculum intends them to be, guiding revision priorities.

Question 4

Which statement BEST describes the relationship between curriculum and instruction?

Accepted Answer

Curriculum defines what is to be learned; instruction defines how it will be taught

Answer

Curriculum refers to the planned content and learning goals, while instruction refers to the methods and strategies used to deliver that curriculum.

Question 5

A middle school team wants to ensure their curriculum helps students transfer knowledge to new situations. According to Wiggins and McTighe, which type of understanding reflects this ability?

Accepted Answer

Transfer of learning

Answer

Wiggins and McTighe identify transfer as the highest form of understanding — the ability to apply learning independently in new and varied contexts.

Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure Practice Test

Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure Practice Test

MTEL Curriculum Development and Design 5