From 2018, Whakarongo School is developing a conceptual approach to the curriculum. This sees a concept, and supporting big idea, forming the basis for purposeful and relevant integrated units of learning. Literacy, Mathematics and the Whakarongo Kid form the FOUNDATIONS of our curriculum and are integrated through all learning. Our conceptual curriculum approach will draw on the foundations and the wider curriculum areas; being split into two key areas: STEM & HEArtSS.
Conceptual: The focus of learning is defined through a concept - not a topic (e.g. conflict, not war). Unlike more traditional learning models, which concentrate on facts, conceptual learning focuses on understanding broader principles or ideas (what we call “concepts”) that can later be applied to a variety of specific examples. The concept forms a key part of the Big Idea.
At Whakarongo School, we use the big idea to explore multiple subject areas (transdisciplinary) using an inquiry lens (whereby students pose questions; identifying and analysing a problem), computational thinking, and project based learning to meaningfully explore and develop understandings, as well as solutions, in authentic learning contexts. |
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