Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®

Education Commons

Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®

Elementary Education

All Graduate Projects

Theses/Dissertations

Curriculum Development

Articles 31 - 60 of 85

Full-Text Articles in Education

Comparison Of East Asian And Western Culture In Teaching Mathematics: A Model Of Elementary School Mathematics Curriculum, Hui-Nuan Nuang Jan 2002

Comparison Of East Asian And Western Culture In Teaching Mathematics: A Model Of Elementary School Mathematics Curriculum, Hui-Nuan Nuang

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to compare cross-cultural mathematics teaching in the elementary schools in East Asian and Western countries, particularly focused on Taiwan and the United States. Another purpose was to design and develop a common mathematics curriculum program for elementary schools to use in both environments. To accomplish this purpose, a review and comparison of current research and literature regarding current curriculum and teaching practice of mathematics in Taiwan and the United States was conducted. Additionally, related information from selected sources was obtained and analyzed.


Bridging The Gap: A Summer Bridge Curriculum Designed For Students Looping From First To Second Grade, Kristen M. May Jan 2002

Bridging The Gap: A Summer Bridge Curriculum Designed For Students Looping From First To Second Grade, Kristen M. May

All Graduate Projects

A literature review was conducted about academic learning loss during summer break. The literature search indicated that reading and math skills were most affected, and test scores in these areas decreased after a long summer break. Literature about the benefits of a looping program was also reviewed. The literature showed that this kind of program allowed for strong student-teacher relationships to be developed, increased the teacher's knowledge about their students' strengths and weaknesses, and decreased the amount of time reviewing skills at the beginning of the school year. The purpose of this project was to develop a summer curriculum for …


A Model Mathematics Thinking Skills Curriculum For Elizabeth Blackwell Elementary School In Sammamish, Washington In The Lake Washington School District, Stacy S. Murphy Jan 2002

A Model Mathematics Thinking Skills Curriculum For Elizabeth Blackwell Elementary School In Sammamish, Washington In The Lake Washington School District, Stacy S. Murphy

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to develop a model Mathematics Thinking Skills Curriculum for Elizabeth Blackwell Elementary in Sammamish, Washington, in the Lake Washington School District, aimed at sixth grade mathematics classrooms. To accomplish this purpose, a review of related literature and research was conducted and utilized to develop unit and lesson plans for a model mathematics thinking skills curriculum. Students were given sample problems from the units and comparisons were made between teaching mathematics with thinking skills and traditional methods. The results support the hypothesis that mathematics concepts are better understood when combined with thinking skills and the …


Teaching Students To Be Self-Directed Readers Through The Use Of Comprehension Strategies Instruction And Personal Response, Tamera L. Neveu Jan 2002

Teaching Students To Be Self-Directed Readers Through The Use Of Comprehension Strategies Instruction And Personal Response, Tamera L. Neveu

All Graduate Projects

The focus of this project was to review available literature on reader response and comprehension strategies instruction, and create materials to be used by teachers as they work toward improving comprehension instruction in their classrooms. Research shows that in order to help students become independent readers who are self-motivated and strategic, teachers need expertise in both reader response and comprehension strategies instruction. The project includes instructional frameworks, lessons, and techniques that can be used to implement reader response and comprehension strategies instruction in the classroom.


An Integrated Math Curriculum Designed To Develop Problem Solving Skills In Third Grade Students, Nwaynna Bernadette Stewart Jan 2002

An Integrated Math Curriculum Designed To Develop Problem Solving Skills In Third Grade Students, Nwaynna Bernadette Stewart

All Graduate Projects

The effectiveness of a curriculum integrating math, manipulative use, writing, drama and the visual arts was examined. The information gathered through research articles and case studies was used to create an integrated math program. The focus of the project is to strengthen problem solving and critical thinking skills of third grade students. The project is designed to supplement materials and textbooks teachers are currently using in their classrooms. Implications for future areas of research are discussed.


A Model Geometry And Probability Supplimental Curriculum For Fourth Grade Students In Alignment With The Washington State Essential Academic Learning Requirements For Mirror Lake Elementary School, Federal Way School District, Federal Way, Washington, Melanie Jane Strey Jan 2002

A Model Geometry And Probability Supplimental Curriculum For Fourth Grade Students In Alignment With The Washington State Essential Academic Learning Requirements For Mirror Lake Elementary School, Federal Way School District, Federal Way, Washington, Melanie Jane Strey

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to develop and implement a model supplemental geometry and probability curriculum for Mirror Lake Elementary in the Federal Way School District, Federal Way, Washington. To accomplish this purpose, a review of related literature was conducted. Additionally, related information and materials from selected sources was obtained and analyzed. Control Groups were formed to test district provided curriculum and district provided curriculum with supplemental units. The results showed greater student academic gains when the district provided curriculum was supplemented with additional material.


A Model Reading Skills Guide For Secondary Teachers To Support Classes Across The Curriculum, Keith Edward Swanson Jan 2002

A Model Reading Skills Guide For Secondary Teachers To Support Classes Across The Curriculum, Keith Edward Swanson

All Graduate Projects

The need for students to learn reading skills in each of their core subject areas was studied. A skills guide, supported by research on effective reading strategies and assessment tools, was then developed to help promote successful reading by secondary students across the curriculum. The guide offers teachers various pre-reading, duringreading, and post-reading activities to enhance the reading done by students in their classes. It also provides assessment tools to enable teachers and students to measure their progress.


A Model Mathematics Problem Solving Curriculum For Randle Elementary School In Randle, Washington In The White Pass School District, Randy A. Torrey Jan 2002

A Model Mathematics Problem Solving Curriculum For Randle Elementary School In Randle, Washington In The White Pass School District, Randy A. Torrey

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to design and develop a model fifth grade mathematics curriculum, in alignment with Washington State Essential Academic Leaming Requirements, for the White Pass School District in Washington. To accomplish this purpose, a review of cun-ent research and literature was conducted and used to develop unit and lesson plans for a model problem solving mathematics curriculum. The results support the hypothesis that mathematic concepts are better understood when problem solving skills are used. Implications for using problem solving skills in a mathematics cuniculum are discussed.


Integrating Mathematics And Language Arts With Assessment In A Fourth Grade Classroom, Erika Vestad Jan 2002

Integrating Mathematics And Language Arts With Assessment In A Fourth Grade Classroom, Erika Vestad

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to develop a unit integrating language arts, mathematics, and Washington Assessment of Student Learning (WASL) practice items for use in a fourth grade classroom in the Yakima School District in Yakima, Washington. This unit allows teachers to better use the W ASL practice items assigned by the district. It also helps students prepare for the WASL and teaches life-long skills. To accomplish this purpose. current literature was reviewed. Additionally, related information from selected sources was obtained and analyzed. Current literature and related sources were synthesized into an integrated unit on measurement and geometry to …


Integrating The Primary Grades Curriculum Using A Science Activity Handbook For A Classroom Pet, Sue Wilson Jan 2002

Integrating The Primary Grades Curriculum Using A Science Activity Handbook For A Classroom Pet, Sue Wilson

All Graduate Projects

An integrated activity handbook for a guinea pig, a classroom or home pet, has been developed to aid teachers in incorporating science into the elementary classroom. Studies indicate the importance of science education for young children. This integrated approach has been found to be a means to connect various academic areas such as science, reading, and mathematics. The Washington State Essential Academic Learning Requirements contain many elements, features, and forms that can be met in the materials and activities in this project. Research and literature regarding science education were explored.


Literature-Based Instruction And Post-Reading Activities To Enhance The Basal Reading Program, Susan J. Vertrees Jan 2001

Literature-Based Instruction And Post-Reading Activities To Enhance The Basal Reading Program, Susan J. Vertrees

All Graduate Projects

The focus ofthis project was to create a resource manual to use in the reading program with students learning a second language. The project implements a balanced reading curriculum with an emphasis on literature-based instruction. Trade books and post-reading activities are the highlights of the resource manual. Using literature in the classroom with literature-based instruction techniques has been shown to have a positive impact on students. The purpose of reading instruction is to increase reading skills as well as the joy ofreading.


Using Literature And Language Arts To Teach The American Revolution To Fifth Grade Students, Tara L. Affholter Jan 2001

Using Literature And Language Arts To Teach The American Revolution To Fifth Grade Students, Tara L. Affholter

All Graduate Projects

Teachers who combine language arts with social studies are not only able to teach content, but can also integrate literary elements and comprehension as well, while using literature groups. Students who were taught using novels, with various writing tasks to complete, lectures, and projects made great gains in social studies content, reading writing and communication skills.


Curriculum To Help Teachers Support Student's Development Of Writing Strategies, Christine Elizabeth English Jan 2001

Curriculum To Help Teachers Support Student's Development Of Writing Strategies, Christine Elizabeth English

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this study was to create a curriculum that can be used to support students as they develop writing strategies. Current literature and research on the writing process and writers' workshop is explored. The project describes procedures, methods, and activities used to develop the curriculum. The project makes use of the Washington State Essential Leaming Requirements. The project explores use of the curriculum that was developed and how it can be adapted to meet individual needs.


The Cooperative Approach: A Handbook For Elementary Physical Education Teachers Focusing On Cooperation Within The Pe Curriculum, Michael D. Johnson Jan 2001

The Cooperative Approach: A Handbook For Elementary Physical Education Teachers Focusing On Cooperation Within The Pe Curriculum, Michael D. Johnson

All Graduate Projects

After being transferred to teach physical education, I wanted to prepare myself by gaining some background knowledge on foundations, concepts, and objectives in physical education. I noticed a large transformation in recent years from curriculums focusing on competitive, self-defeating games, to an approach aimed at teaching skills, cooperation and teamwork. I compiled research on the history, goals and intent, and cooperation and teamwork in the physical education curriculum. I also compiled research on the national and state standards, and evaluation and grading in the physical education program. Based on the research, I created a handbook for physical education teachers. The …


Navigating The Reading Maze: Family Involvement Activities To Help Your Second Grade Child In The Cle Elum-Roslyn School District Become A Better Reader, Rita Mariposa Kretschman Jan 2001

Navigating The Reading Maze: Family Involvement Activities To Help Your Second Grade Child In The Cle Elum-Roslyn School District Become A Better Reader, Rita Mariposa Kretschman

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project is to create a partnership with the author's students and their parents in the area of reading. This project is the development of a parent handbook with state and district reading frameworks as well as a curricular project for home use. Activities and strategies suggested are the same as those used within the author's classroom.


Conflict Resolution In The Elementary School, Cami Lyn Matsuko Okubo Jan 2001

Conflict Resolution In The Elementary School, Cami Lyn Matsuko Okubo

All Graduate Projects

Conflict is a natural part of life. People make the choice to respond to it negatively and/or constructively. Conflict theories explain that conflict is both inevitable in social circumstances and serves to foster individual development. Without conflict resolution skills training, students may not be aware of the viable alternatives to come to a resolution nor may they be aware of how to communicate through negotiation. The purpose of this project was to develop an integrated conflict resolution program for elementary students at the fourth grade level. As a result of this project, students will have an opportunity to learn the …


Incorporating Multicultural Children's Literature Into A Primary Curriculum, Cristian Rene Newell Jan 2001

Incorporating Multicultural Children's Literature Into A Primary Curriculum, Cristian Rene Newell

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of the project was to provide primary teachers with a multicultural literature resource book. To accomplish this a review of literature was completed to investigate the need for, and value of using multicultural literature within a primary classroom. How to judge quality multicultural literature was also reviewed. The project consisted of general lesson plans to use with multicultural literature, twenty specific activities to use with multicultural literature, and annotated book lists of multicultural literature. The activities incorporate Reading, Writing, Communication, and Mathematics Essential Academic Learning Requirements for the state of Washington. Literature is representative of several cultures and …


A Model Parent Involvement Program, Donna J. Kiehn Jan 2001

A Model Parent Involvement Program, Donna J. Kiehn

All Graduate Projects

It is vital that educators provide opportunities for parents to become partners in the education of their children. With an increased emphasis on parent involvement, educators are seeking new ways to involve families in their children's education. Parent involvement can and should take a variety of forms. The purpose of this project was to design and develop a program for elementary schools that details how a parent involvement model of "Family Fun Nights" could help provide parents with a better understanding and knowledge of the Washington State Essential Academic Learning Requirements. The format also allows an opportunity for parents to …


Balanced Reading In An Intermediate Classroom, Rochelle Marie Cramer Jan 2000

Balanced Reading In An Intermediate Classroom, Rochelle Marie Cramer

All Graduate Projects

Research in the process of balancing the reading curriculum was read, evaluated and summarized. This research showed the need for further study in the areas of shared reading, guided reading, independent reading, and responding to literature; as combining these four components create a balanced reading program. In a balanced approach students receive skill and strategy instruction in addition to reading and responding to authentic literature. A yearlong balanced reading guide and ten sample supporting lessons were created for the intermediate grade teachers at Washington State Centennial Elementary in the Bethel School District.


Integrating Writing To Enhance Mathematical Skills At The Elementary Level, Kendra J. Kupp Jan 2000

Integrating Writing To Enhance Mathematical Skills At The Elementary Level, Kendra J. Kupp

All Graduate Projects

The recommendations of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the Washington State Commission on Student Learning Essential Academic Requirements are addressed. The benefits of integrating mathematics and writing are studied. Integrated activities and materials for a first and second grade mathematics curriculum are developed. Recommendations for implementing the project are given.


Infusing The Multiple Intelligences Into Fifth Grade Curriculum, Kelly Eugene Mattson Jan 2000

Infusing The Multiple Intelligences Into Fifth Grade Curriculum, Kelly Eugene Mattson

All Graduate Projects

Howard Gardner's theory of Multiple Intelligences involves eight different ways to learn (linguistic, logical-mathematical, visual-spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, musical, naturalistic, interpersonal and intrapersonal). These categories of intelligence, along with the guidelines of Washington State's Essential Academic Leaming Requirements, were applied to thirty lessons that were derived from the fifth grade curriculum at Tieton Middle School in Tieton, Washington. The lessons reflect the fields of reading, writing, mathematics, science, social studies and health/fitness.


The Mathematics Of Sound: Integrating Music Into A Math Curriculum, Shawn William Meacham Jan 2000

The Mathematics Of Sound: Integrating Music Into A Math Curriculum, Shawn William Meacham

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to develop prototype lesson plans that connects and integrates musical and mathematical concepts at the 5th grade level. Both musical and mathematical concepts can be enhanced when studying the correlation between the two subjects. This project will provide lesson plans and activities using the Washington State Essential Academic Leaming Requirements as a basis for the concepts being taught. The goal of the project is to inspire teachers to use integration throughout the curriculum. An integrated curriculum develops and supports the coherence of ideas and concepts taught within our schools. By fostering our natural instinct …


Integration Of The Internet Into The Curriculum: A Model Application Exploring The Iditarod, Melanie Kingham Jan 2000

Integration Of The Internet Into The Curriculum: A Model Application Exploring The Iditarod, Melanie Kingham

All Graduate Projects

This manuscript is intended to serve as a model and resource for elementary teachers seeking to incorporate use of the Internet into their curriculum. A central premise of the document is that the Internet can serve as a valuable learning tool when it is part of an integrated, project based instructional program. A discussion of the rationale supporting this position is provided, as well as a review of related literature and research. Issues and considerations for those developing Internet based curricula are addressed. A sample Internet based curriculum for primary students, "The Spirit of Adventure," is offered as an illustration …


Touch Phonics To Improve Reading Fluency Among Fourth Grade Students, Christina M. Alaniz Jan 1999

Touch Phonics To Improve Reading Fluency Among Fourth Grade Students, Christina M. Alaniz

All Graduate Projects

Touchphonics, a phonemic awareness reading program, has been implemented among fourth grade students in order to test its effectiveness in improving reading fluency. Data were presented to support teaching phonemic awareness as part of reading programs. Several examples have been given of how students with phonemic awareness skills have been successful in learning how to read. Within this project are lesson plans on how to implement Touchphonics in the classroom which have been developed. Finally, a portfolio system to assess students' reading and writing is explained.


Wolves And Bears: An Interdisciplinary Activity Guide For Grades 3-5, Susan L. Thomas Jan 1999

Wolves And Bears: An Interdisciplinary Activity Guide For Grades 3-5, Susan L. Thomas

All Graduate Projects

A popular set of "Discovery Boxes" are used by educators across North Central Washington. These boxes are administered by the U.S. Forest Service and focus on such themes as wolves, bears, fire, plants and forests. These boxes are available to be checked out to educators for two-week periods, and reach approximately 9,000 students annually. Each box contains "hands-on" props which enhance the learning of each theme. Some of the boxes have activity guides in them to assist the educator in teaching the theme and thus using the box to its full potential. Two of the most popular boxes, the wolf …


A Process Model To Aid In The Development Of Integrated Thematic Curriculum Units, Jennifer Lynn Hamilton Jan 1998

A Process Model To Aid In The Development Of Integrated Thematic Curriculum Units, Jennifer Lynn Hamilton

All Graduate Projects

This project provides a detailed manual to assist elementary teachers in the design of successful integrated thematic curriculum units. The project reflects the most recent research related to learning theories of how the brain comprehends. The manual synthesizes current procedures for integrative thematic curriculum development into a manual which includes a rational for integrative curriculum, a step by step procedure for development of integrated thematic units, and an example of an integrated thematic unit.


A Literature Approach Program For A Sixth Grade Classroom, Leigh Ann Koenig Jan 1998

A Literature Approach Program For A Sixth Grade Classroom, Leigh Ann Koenig

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this study was to create a reading program which encourages student-led discussion, exposes students to a variety of genres, and develops higher-level thinking. Strategies for using literature as the foundation of a reading program were examined. Evidence from the review of literature indicated that participation in literature response groups encouraged choice, social interaction, and promoted a deeper level of understanding. Instructional strategies, techniques, planning, and the role of the instructor in a literature program were dis.:ussed.


A Poetry Curriculum For Primary Teachers, Janice M. Matheny Jan 1998

A Poetry Curriculum For Primary Teachers, Janice M. Matheny

All Graduate Projects

This project examined the role of poetry in language development and literacy acquisition in children. The review of current literature strongly supported the rationale for providing poetry experiences beginning at an early age and continuing on through the first few years of school. All stages of language development benefit from exposure to rhythm and rhyme. Poetry can be there to bridge the gap as young children speak their first words, read their first book and write their first sentence. Included is a poetry curriculum centering on the theme of Playground Rhymes. It was specifically written for primary teachers. The research …


Authenticity In Language Arts For The Average Fouth Graders, Karen Ann Rossman Jan 1998

Authenticity In Language Arts For The Average Fouth Graders, Karen Ann Rossman

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this study was to develop an integrated Language Arts program based on the Washington State Essential Academic Learning Requirements and which focuses on authentic experiential activities. Research was completed which supported the use of integration of the language arts as well as authenticity in learning. The concluding activity was the writing of an autobiographical story by each student.


Writing Across The Curriculum For Primary Grades, Jenneifer L. Perri Jan 1998

Writing Across The Curriculum For Primary Grades, Jenneifer L. Perri

All Graduate Projects

Writing activities have been developed for the primary classroom to help in the teaching of science and social studies. Both research and observation have shown that writing is a thinking process which has a positive impact on all areas of the curriculum. The project included specific writing activities which can be taught during specific science and social studies themes. A list of writing prompts which can be used when using learning logs has been provided as a way to encourage reflection and interaction with curriculum content.