1. Core Knowledge

2. What is Core Knowledge? An educational reform movement that… Is a powerful idea Understands that background knowledge is essential to understanding Promotes cultural literacy Research-based 4 C’s of Core Knowledge Content specific Coherent Cumulative Context rich with cross curricular connections Provides educational excellence and equity for all students Narrows the equity gap Gap between American students Narrows the excellence gap Gap between American students and students of other nations Explorers War of 1812 The Vikings Insects Middle Ages Ancient Greece Native Americans Simple Machines American History Roman Empire

3. The Core Knowledge Approach Domain Based units Efficiency Factor Repeated exposure to vocabulary Vocabulary taught through context Opportunity to cover both content and skills Using read alouds to teach ELA that are related to content Helping students become fluent readers

4. Why Teach Content Knowledge?

5. Hirsch and CCSS Core Knowledge Common Core Academic excellence for all students Content specific Coherent – sequence is intentionally designed Cumulative with a spiraling curriculum Consistent from class to class Builds meaningful connections Use of vocabulary rich nonfiction read alouds All students receive a high quality education Clear understanding of what students are expected to learn Clearly defined expectations for each grade level Each year builds upon the next Consistent expectations Encourages connections across disciplines Builds knowledge through content rich nonfiction

6. Timeline Curriculum Map due Friday AM 2 Domain Maps completed during the work sessions today and Friday K – 2 grade work on Maps from domains that are not covered in Listening and Learning Complete 1 Map per month until all domains are covered Move into creating measureable objectives and meaningful activities

7. Fidelity of Implementation Curriculum and Domain Maps Guide Instruction and Content Intentionally sequenced Cross-curricular connections in place Orient new staff members Instruction consistently reflects the content of the Map Read Alouds Impart content knowledge Model formal, rich language Model and improve fluency Provide context for vocabulary acquisition Reading Strategies Background knowledge is critical to comprehension Twenty-five isolated lessons have same impact as six Teach what good readers know rather than what good readers do

8. What Now??????? Complete Domain Maps Cement concepts with cross-curricular connections Increase vocabulary exposure Post words Multiple exposures Allow students time to practice Cross-curricular connections Make Core Knowledge visible Displays that show off the domain Showcase meaningful activities

9. Core Knowledge Teachers should … have mastery of subject matter have high expectations use assessment to inform instruction use scaffolding and feedback to meet needs of individuals afford students the opportunity for practice afford students the opportunity to apply their knowledge