2. Integrated Learning

WHAT IS IT?

• Pursue any topic or issue and opportunities arise to address expectations across multiple subjects. Following and using these learning opportunities is the essence of integrated learning.

• The learning experience addresses and assesses content and skill expectations from two or more subjects.

• At lower levels of integration distinct subjects are readily identifiable. In fully integrated investigations or projects, subject boundaries are transcended and no longer readily identifiable.

WHY USE IT?

• Integrated learning makes addressing curriculum manageable by offering a means of addressing many subject expectations in a meaningful way.

• It contributes to a deeper understanding of topics and issues, and the interrelationships inherent in complex, real-world systems.

• It provides opportunities to differentiate instruction. The inclusion of multiple disciplines provides students with the opportunity to engage their particular interests or abilities.

• Integrated learning enables more authentic assessment.

TIPS FOR TEACHERS

• Most subject areas provide interesting topics and teachable moments to address literacy & numeracy.

• Team-teaching allows colleagues to break down artificial subject barriers and present students with a more authentic experience of how knowledge is built and problems are solved.

• Better still, a thematic teaching approach can unite curriculum and colleagues around a single topic and in doing so help students gain deeper understanding.

• Action projects launched from just about any subject or content area provide excellent opportunities to incorporate knowledge and skills from across the curriculum.

• Learning outcomes derived from field trips within the school neighbourhood or beyond  can easily include those associated with journal writing, drawing & photography, observing &  recording, and hypothesis testing to name a few.

• Children’s literature can be an excellent vehicle for integrating subjects and curriculum. See the R4R Children's Literature Catalogue.