Task 1

Like many of my peers, I found it difficult to concentrate through all 3 articles. : )
However, I did learn much about the need for curriculum.
Why do we need to consider curriculum?
As one of the newer teachers in my building, I am still steadfast about following my curriculum map and covering all concepts in a timely manner. I believe that beginning teachers need a guideline and frame to help them make sense of their year as a whole. However, curriculum is varied from state to state, sometimes even district to district. We must consider curriculum in our discussions and studies, because it is essential to our students understanding of the world around them...ideally.
What model of curriculum do you feel best fits your current role?/What model are you most attracted to?/What would be your preference?
I feel that in my current RTI Title I position, a flexible curriculum best fits my student's needs. They need individual goals and concepts, and what is essential for one student, may not be for another. These students have very different aspirations and abilities, and their curriculum should reflect that. Perhaps correspondingly, I am most attracted to this model, because of the benefits and encouragements it can provide my students. If I was in a different role however, I would gravitate more towards an open conversational model. I feel it better suits my personality...but teaching isn't about my wants or needs, it is and should always be, about the students! : )
Wiggins talks about the need for a “modern” curriculum- what could this look like? /Do you buy that we need a new approach to curriculum? Why or why not?
I think in a more modern curriculum, time would be spent on preparing students for the future, not an academic bowl. Graduating students are lacking basic skills needed in society, and one can only imagine it is due to poor curriculum. I would hope that a modern curriculum includes more social connections and community driven goals. I do buy that a new approach to curriculum is needed, but how will we ever decide what is best? We need to combine the good from the old, with all the promising components of the future.

First Blog

Hey everyone! This class is really challenging my technology abilities, but I'm enjoying learning new skills. : ) As you probably know from my voice recording, I am a Title I teacher at North Calloway Elementary. This is my 3rd year teaching, and I love the team I get to work with everyday. I recently bought a house in Mayfield, and live there with my crazy dog, Nemo. I will finish my master's this summer, and will then (hopefully) celebrate by going to Austria and learning about environmental issues. Anything else, just ask! : )