Over the break our teachers were hard at work creating materials that will guide their instruction for the remainder of our year.  Using the Core Knowledge Sequence, in conjunction with State Standards alignment, we have created a Curriculum Map that outlines which subjects will be taught for the remainder of the year based on Domains.  This is a lengthy process that has brought us closer to our Core Knowledge roots.  Domains as defined by the Core Knowledge Foundation, are the overarching concepts that Core Knowledge uses to build a background of knowledge that students will be able to draw upon for success in many other areas.  Domains are knowledge based in scope as opposed to skills based offerings like mathematics.   Most Domains are derived from Social Studies and Science subject areas.

Domains cover wide subject areas and are integrated into cross-curricular skills based instruction wherever possible.  For example, a teacher might be teaching the Civil War (Domain) to a group of students in 5th grade.  During math time, which is primarily skills based, the students could be calculating trajectories of canons, or working with calculations using maps from that time period.  All of the efforts of the classroom are focused like a laser beam to accomplish specific learning goals.  Those learning goals are then measured through formal assessments.  

Identifying these Domains allows the teacher to add the application of knowledge into the education on a variety of topics.  We are very excited about all of the work that the teachers have done over break to further communicate the educational goals of Legacy Academy.  Domain Maps are available in the doorways of each of the classrooms.  Feel free to pick one up anytime.  

Have a wonderful start to your New Year!

 ~ Jason Cross