Curriculum is the central guide for all educators as to what is essential for teaching and learning, so that every student has access to rigorous academic experiences. The structure, organization, and considerations in a curriculum are created in order to enhance student learning and facilitate instruction. The purpose of the curriculum is encapsulated in the four capacities - to enable each child to be a successful learner, a confident individual, a responsible citizen and an effective contributor. These curriculums will look slightly different in each classroom because the goals are geared towards age and development.
At Amiya’s Clubhouse we use theme based curriculum as a fun and creative way for educators to organize lessons and activities around a subject that will engage their classrooms. With these themes, children will have fun and develop crucial skills at the same time. For every theme the teachers create lessons that integrate all subjects, like science, reading, language, and math, under one main theme for a balanced curriculum. Thematic units enhance children’s comprehension, as they learn best through interactive and integrated activities.
When planning a thematic unit teachers, consider the elements below:
When teachers tap into children’s natural curiosity, it excites and motivates them to learn and discover more independently. For example, when learning about a specific type of flower, the children may want to know where and how it grows or paint a picture of it. As a result, they become active learners, and the learning remains exciting and vibrant.
Children learn about the world around them through engaging storybooks, national holidays, special events, and items they can see. For example, children learn how fire affects people’s lives and homes during a fire and safety theme. They also discover what first responders go through to save people's lives.
Theme-based learning exposes children to various activities that cater to different learning styles. This variety provides support to all children as they learn differently. For example, while one child may learn better through visuals like pictures and illustrations, another may prefer interpersonal learning, like circle time and group activities.
Examples of themes you will see are:
