Harness natural curiosity for conceptual understanding!
Young children are naturally curious, asking deep questions about complex concepts. This tendency is a talent that can be nurtured so that children grow to be deep thinkers and innovators later in life. However, in our complex world, it is impossible to teach students everything they need to know. Pushing more factual content ignores what we know about how children learn and endangers their love of learning. Concept-based teaching helps young learners uncover conceptual relationships in a way that is developmentally appropriate. Readers of this guide will learn:
- Why conceptual learning is a natural fit for children
- Strategies for introducing conceptual learning
- Instructional strategies to help students uncover and transfer concepts
- How to write lessons, assess understanding, and differentiate in a concept-based classroom
- How concept-based teaching aligns with best practices and initiatives
Written for educators who strive to cultivate conceptual understanding while honoring students’ innate curiosity, this is a must-have road map for implementing concept-based teaching in elementary classrooms.
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Author Bio
Julie Stern is a teacher, author, trainer and instructional coach, supporting schools in transforming teaching and learning around the globe. Julie previously served as the director of public policy and curriculum innovation at the Cesar Chavez Public Charter Schools.