Students are required to develop one original Study Topic Unit. Copied activities from commercial sources are not allowed. A Study Topic is the organization of a curriculum around children’s interests with a specific focus. The Study Topic Unit integrates basic disciplines and incorporates all areas of learning such as: language arts, math, science, social studies, art, and music. Also, include field trips, food experiences, and activities that will utilize fine and gross motor activities. There should be a list of at least ten children’s books, three fingerplays and 3 songs. Your references should be cited.

 The component parts of this thematic unit:

A. Study Topic – Select a specific appropriate topic reflecting children’s interests and experiences. Topics that are too broad or not developmentally applicable will not be considered. Examples of this type of topic include Ocean, Rain Forest, Outer Space. Examples of specific appropriate topics are shoes, worms, rocks.

B. Age Level –“Birth through Second Grade” Select an age or grade level.

C. Focus – Develop a one-sentence focus statement that summarizes the direction and intent of the unit.

D. NC Foundations– Identify three or four specific Standards (If using NC Foundations provide Domain, subdomain, goal and indicator. http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/pdf_forms/NC_foundations.pdf

E. Resources – You will need to cite all resources used throughout the study topic. For example: Internet resources (specific web site), printed resources, magazines, newspaper, journals, audio/visual resources, field trips, etc.

F. Complete the attached Lesson Plan Forms in detail. You should also include two extension activities (extended activities or enrichment activities).

G. Discussion Questions – Include at least three open-ended questions that will help children think about the topic in varied and divergent ways.

H. Literature Selections – Select children’s books that relate to the theme and are developmentally appropriate for the children you will be working with.

                 I. Culminating Activity – The culminating activity is a project or activity that engages children in a meaningful summarization of their discoveries and leads to new ideas, understandings and     connections.

                 J. Evaluation – Devise appropriate means of evaluating children’s progress throughout the unit based on the objectives chosen above.

The following criteria are used to evaluate the unit:

A. Developmental Appropriateness – The topic, goals and objectives should be appropriate for the age or grade level.

B. Content – The Study Topic should include stimulating materials and activities that provide for an integration of a variety of content areas.

C. Grammar, Mechanics, and Spelling: – The rules of grammar, mechanics and spelling should be observed.

D. Integration of Learning – The Study Topic should include a variety of activities that include all types of learners.

E. Presentation – The Study Topic should be typed and be visually effective.

Please use attachments with Assignment.