Domain-Based Unit Writing

Audience

K–8 teachers, administrators

Length

2 days (6 hours/day)

Prerequisites

To qualify for this workshop, you must first participate in:

• An Overview of Core Knowledge; and
• Getting Started
• Meaningful Instruction

Objectives

Upon completion of this professional development, participants will be able to:

• differentiate a domain-based unit from a thematic or conceptual unit;
• describe the characteristics of a “big idea” and an “essential question;”
• identify texts that serve as a high-quality read-aloud, which support development of language and knowledge;
• describe what an effective read-aloud looks/sounds like and how it benefits students;
• distinguish between Tier 2 and Tier 3 vocabulary; 
• identify different forms of discussion;
• distinguish between different types of questions;  
• develop questions that can only be answered through close analysis of text;
• identify strategies that can be used to promote discussion and involve all students;
• develop extended learning opportunities which encourage students to apply knowledge and use Tier 2 and/or Tier 3 vocabulary;
• describe the components of well-designed domain-based units.

Summary

Core Knowledge has long recognized the connection between language, knowledge, and reading comprehension.  The recently released Common Core State Standards (CCSS) now draw wider attention to the connection by calling for:

• an integrated model of literacy that reflects the developmental nature of language and the interrelation of all aspects of literacy, reading, writing,  listening and speaking;
• a balance of fiction and nonfiction text taught during the language arts block, so that by 4th grade, 50% of the texts students are reading are informational/explanatory texts and 50% are fiction;
• the standards to be part of a coherent, “well-developed, content rich curriculum designed to build strong content knowledge.”

During this professional development offering from the Core Knowledge Foundation, participants will design a comprehensive unit outline that illustrates how knowledge and vocabulary build. Through this domain immersion approach, the unit will leverage Core Knowledge content to improve the development of students' language, knowledge, and reading comprehension.

Registration:

Learn more about scheduling a workshop!

For additional details, please contact the Professional Development Coordinator via email, professionaldevelopment@coreknowledge.org, or by calling (434) 220-3352.