Planning a Preschool Curriculum

Questions and Answers

What is a teachable moment in the context of a curriculum?

A review session at the end of a unit

An unexpected event that can be used as a learning opportunity (correct)

A planned lesson focused on specific content

A period of downtime for students

Which of the following is NOT a factor to consider when developing a curriculum?

Determining if the information is developmentally appropriate

Engaging families in the learning process (correct)

Balancing learning activities

Choosing skills and content to cover

What type of learning experiences are planned activities considered?

Indirect learning experiences

Direct learning experiences (correct)

Spontaneous learning experiences

Emergent learning experiences

Which element is essential for creating a great curriculum?

Hands-on experiences Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean for information to be developmentally appropriate?

The information should cater to the developmental level of the learners Signup and view all the answers

What is an important consideration when developing curriculum for children?

Integrating multiculturalism into all areas Signup and view all the answers

How do field-sensitive children typically prefer to learn?

By working and playing with others Signup and view all the answers

Which group of learners relies heavily on the sense of sight?

Field-independent learners Signup and view all the answers

What reflects a best practice for early childhood education curriculum?

Inclusive practices considering every child's needs Signup and view all the answers

What role does cultural diversity play in classroom representation?

It should be included in all curricular areas Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of observing the pumpkin during the lesson?

To help children understand earth science and plant growth Signup and view all the answers

How should the lesson begin to engage children's interest?

By showing the pumpkin and asking what they think is inside Signup and view all the answers

What is a suggested activity step before opening the pumpkin?

Ask children to predict what they think is in the pumpkin Signup and view all the answers

What materials are specifically mentioned as needed for the activity?

A pumpkin, chart paper, and markers Signup and view all the answers

What kind of questions should be asked during the closure of the lesson?

What was inside the pumpkin? How did it feel? Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of an effective curriculum?

Strictly teacher-directed activities Signup and view all the answers

What do program goals primarily express in a preschool curriculum?

Desired end results and purpose Signup and view all the answers

Which area of child development is NOT typically included in preschool program goals?

Academic knowledge in advanced subjects Signup and view all the answers

According to the example goals for Little Peoples College, what philosophy guides their educational approach?

Individualized and developmental approach Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a goal example provided for preschool programs?

To develop problem-solving skills Signup and view all the answers

What is one goal related to fostering relationships in a preschool program?

To foster family relationships Signup and view all the answers

In planning a preschool curriculum, what aspect is least likely to be considered?

Ensuring children are always quiet Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of the Head Start program as described?

Children's readiness for future schooling Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of an emergent curriculum?

Child-centered experiences Signup and view all the answers

When choosing a theme for a curriculum, which factor is NOT essential to consider?

Teacher's personal preferences Signup and view all the answers

What does a web primarily serve as in the context of planning a curriculum theme?

A planning tool outlining major concepts related to a theme Signup and view all the answers

In a block plan, what activity is typically included?

Large group activities Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect is NOT typically included in a lesson plan?

Student grades Signup and view all the answers

What does the developmental goal indicate in a curriculum plan?

The area of cognitive, physical, or social/emotional development being targeted Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a goal associated with a thematic unit about planting?

Children understand how plants grow and their needs Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of a thematic unit in education?

Planned around one main topic or idea Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Understanding Curriculum

Curriculum encompasses developmentally appropriate and evidence-based practices.
It can be either planned or accidental, adhering to state standards and best practices.
Curriculum represents what children are being taught.

Program Goals

Goals express broad purposes and state desired outcomes for the curriculum.
Key areas of child development should be considered, focusing on the whole child.
Examples of goals include promoting self-independence, problem-solving skills, and respect for diversity.

Program Examples

CFC Head Start aims to enhance school readiness in children aged birth to 5, focusing on cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development through exploration.
Little Peoples College emphasizes providing a nurturing environment for children to develop to their fullest potential across multiple developmental domains.

Elements of a Great Curriculum

Direct learning experiences depend on classroom setup and planned activities.
Indirect learning occurs spontaneously, often during transitions or teachable moments.
Balance between structured and unstructured activities is essential, incorporating both indoor and outdoor experiences.

Factors in Curriculum Development

Choose skills and content that are developmentally appropriate and relevant.
Incorporate engaging activities that resonate with children's interests and experiences.
Learning styles and cultural diversity must be respected and reflected in the curriculum, accommodating different types of learners.

Emergent Curriculum

Emergent curriculum is child-centered, adapting to children's interests and experiences.

Thematic Units

Activities are centered around a main theme, developed using a webbing technique outlining key concepts.
Themes should resonate with children's lives and be culturally sensitive, considering age and available materials.

Goals for Themes

Define expected learning outcomes from thematic units, e.g., understanding plant growth during a planting theme.

Webbing

A planning tool that outlines major concepts related to a theme, including activities, vocabulary, stories, and materials.

Lesson Plans

Detailed plans that include materials, motivation, procedures, and closure to meet specified goals and developmental standards.
Development goals specify the targeted developmental domain (Cognitive, Physical, Social/Emotional) and guide lesson design.

Lesson Plan Components

Intro/Motivation: Engage children with questions to spark interest.
Procedure: Step-by-step instructions for activities.
Closure: Recap of learning experiences and discussions on outcomes.
Materials: List of items needed to complete the activity.

Class Activities

Collaboration required to create block plans and individual lesson plans based on chosen themes and webs.

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Description

Explore the essentials of developing a preschool curriculum that is developmentally appropriate and evidence-based. This quiz covers program goals and the overarching philosophy behind early childhood education. Test your knowledge of effective curriculum planning for young learners!