Curriculum Planning and Design Flashcards

Which curriculum design model begins with identifying desired learning outcomes and then works backward to design instruction?

Answer: Understanding by Design (UbD)

Understanding by Design (Wiggins & McTighe) uses backward design: establish desired results, determine acceptable evidence, then plan learning experiences.

Scope in curriculum planning refers to:

Answer: The breadth and depth of content to be covered

Scope defines what content is included in a curriculum and to what depth, ensuring comprehensive and appropriately bounded coverage of learning standards.

Sequence in curriculum planning refers to:

Answer: The order in which content is taught

Sequence determines the logical or developmental order in which content is presented, ensuring students build knowledge progressively and coherently.

A 'spiral curriculum,' as described by Bruner, revisits topics at increasing levels of complexity. This design principle MOST supports:

Answer: Deepening understanding through repeated exposure over time

Bruner's spiral curriculum intentionally reintroduces key concepts with greater depth and sophistication, strengthening understanding through iterative engagement.

Which component of a lesson plan describes what students will be able to do by the end of the lesson?

Answer: Learning objective

Learning objectives clearly state the expected student outcomes in observable, measurable terms, guiding all other lesson plan components.

A Minnesota teacher aligns lesson activities to the Minnesota Academic Standards. This alignment ensures:

Answer: Lessons meet state-defined expectations for student learning

Aligning instruction to Minnesota Academic Standards ensures lessons address the content and skills the state has identified as essential for student success.