In June 2001, MiddleWeb listserv members proposed a bold summer venture
-- creating an integrated curriculum unit on-line. The germ of the idea
developed when one list member suggested we might attempt to create a cross-curricular
unit via the listserv, using an adolescent novel as an anchor for the work.
Quite a few other listserv members suggested an "overarching theme"
rather than a book.
As our discussion evolved, there seemed to be some consensus in the direction
of "deep principles/concepts" that could apply across grade levels
and content areas. A few ideas mentioned were: change; bridges; wonder;
perseverence; cities. Several people emphasized the need for some connection
to learning standards; one person urged the participants to consider framing
the theme with essential questions. Several also wondered if this activity
might be tied to a discussion of backwards curriculum design - perhaps kicking
off the chat with that topic, or doing it parallel to a discussion about
books or articles in the vein of Wiggins' "Understanding By Design."
Here is some of the initial chat about
this project, which began on our regular Listserv. As the project developed,
we moved the discussion to a special Projects listserv.
Here is a complete running record of the project
discussion, which took place during a two-month period (June/July 2001)
on our [MWprojects] list. Warning: It's long!
Ultimately, we were unable to complete the project. But participants agreed
that the effort was worthwhile. We learned a lot, and we will no doubt try
again.
Read our closing comments
about what worked, what didn't, and what might help such a process work
better in the future.