Based on the findings from the readings and conducting your own research, analyze the below points for discussion.
You are required to conduct a virtual classroom session using the cross-curricular approach to learning,
- What are the potential challenges that the students may face in a virtual classroom?
- Describe how you will engage your students in a virtual classroom.
- If you notice a student is not engaged, how will you react and respond?
- Defend why you think the cross curricular approach would work well in the virtual classroom.
- Provide examples, from the reading or from experience, to support your response.
- Readings:
- Constructivist Learning Design
Gagnon, G. W. Jr., & Collay, M. (2005). Constructivist learning design: Key questions for teaching to standards. Corwin Press.- Access through LIRN.
- Read p. 5 (e-book pp. 32)
- You will use this template as a sample lesson plan.
- Cross-Curricular Theory and Practice
Cotič, N., Cotič, M., Felda, D., & Krmac, N. (2021). The effect of cross-curricular integration on pupils’ knowledge gained through experiential learning.Cypriot Journal of Educational Sciences, 16(6), 3133-3146.- This study examined the effects of integrating mathematics and science in a cross-curricular, experiential-learning approach.
- Shanahan, T. (2022, April 9). Integrating literacy instruction with science and social studies. Shanahan on Literacy.
- This blog provides advice for teachers who want to implement an integrated curriculum approach.
- Simms, J. A., & Marzano, R. J. (2018). The new art and science of teaching reading. Solution Tree.
- Access through LIRN.
- Read Chapter 8 (pp. 121-137).
- This book provides comprehensive information on how to incorporate various subjects using research-based literacy development strategies.
- Be sure to clear your search after selecting Read Online.
Wright, T. S., & Domke, L. M. (2019). The role of language and literacy in K-5 science and social studies standards. Journal of Literacy Research, 51(1), 5- 29.
- This study investigated the role of language and literacy in a cross-curricular setting.
Primary sources, literacy development, and historical thinking skills
17 literacy strategies for teachers to use in the classroom. (2022, September 30). Indeed. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/literacy-strategies- This article discusses why literacy strategies are important and provides a large number of strategies for teachers.
Callaway, A. (2020). Analyzing students’ historical thinking skills at different grade levels [Master’s thesis, Eastern Illinois University]. The Keep, Eastern Illinois University.
- This thesis compares and contrasts the historical thinking abilities of students through their use of disciplinary literacy skill.
Cowgill II, D. A., & Waring, S. M. (2017). Historical thinking: An evaluation of student and teacher ability to analyze sources. Journal of Social Studies Education Research 8(1), 115-145.
- In this version of the study, rather than compare historians and students, it is sought out to compare the analytical skills of teachers and students.
Virtual Classroom Resources
Bixler, N. (2021, September 22). Keep students engaged with these virtual classroom activities. Hapara.
- This blog talks about virtual classroom activity ideas to keep learners engaged.
McCarthy, J. (2021, November 30). Bringing what worked during virtual learning into the classroom. Edutopia.
- This website explains how to incorporate lessons learned and web-based platforms into an in-person or virtual environment.
Minero, E. (2020, August 21). 8 strategies to improve participation in your virtual classroom. Edutopia.
- This article explains how educators share their best strategies to boost student participation amidst Covid – 19.
Strategies for teaching online: The Ultimate guide for educators. (2022, March 1). Albert.
- This blog it is an ultimate guide for educators to implement various strategies while teaching online.
Video
Cambridge University Press ELT. (2019, November 3). Dr. Heba Sadek – Teach students, not subjects: The benefits of cross-curricular teaching and learning [Video]. YouTube.
- Dr. Sadek explains how to overcome challenges in teaching multiple subjects using a cross-curricular approach.
Edutopia. (2020, April 9). Keeping students engaged in digital learning [Video]. YouTube.
- This video shows six tips can help you make sure your students stay connected and immersed in learning.
Kristina Garcia. (2020, August 22). How to teach online (Top tips for new online teachers!) [Video]. YouTube.
- This video explains the top tips for new online teachers.
Optional Resources
Kelly, M. (2019, July 15). Cross-curricular connections in instruction: Four ways to integrate lessons. ThoughtCo.
- This article discusses how a cross-curricular approach makes learning meaningful.
Nesmith, S., Ditmore, E., Scott, L., & Zhu, T. (2017). “This is more about a book than about science!” Preservice teachers’ perceptions toward using literacy strategies in inquiry-based science lessons. Electronic Journal of Science Education, 21(5), 1-13.
- This study examines why teachers may be hesitant to implement cross-curricular lessons in the classroom.
Sullivan, C. (2019, November 5). Approaches to successful cross-curricular integration. Teach Hub.
- This article explains the benefits of a cross-curricular approach and how teachers can put it to use.