In a recent article in the Hartford Courant (one of the local papers back home) an explanation of the proposed plan for one of the elementary schools in Hartford was explained. The school was to become one of more than 1500 in the country under the title and philosophy of "Core Knowledge." Much like the highly praised Montessori schools, classrooms are driven by a philosophy. However, unless the "touchy-feely" Montessori schools, Core Knowledge schools will train their teachers what they ought to teach and in what order. It will develop basic knowledge often overlooked at schools, which are often to drill-oriented, especially when it comes to standardized testing (known as the Connecticut Mastery Test or C.M.T.s).
I think this whole idea is ingenious. It is bringing the focus back to real knowledge instead of throw away facts that students know for a day and forget as soon as it's not going to be tested. Students will be learning "poetry, fiction, sayings and phrases, science, math and music" as well as having an extensive background in history. So many students have no understanding of these subjects simply because a school was too busy with exam drills. These tests are often geared towards students with a particular background (i.e. the wealthy). Students from lower income families (like the ones attending Millner), will gain a leg up by having this essential basic knowledge.
If you have any interest in the matter, you can find the information at ProQuest:
MILNER STUDENTS WILL BE EXPOSED TO 'CORE KNOWLEDGE'RACHEL GOTTLIEB FRANK. Hartford Courant. Hartford, Conn.:Jan 22, 2008. p. B.1
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3 comments:
How interesting, Deirdre.
Wouldn't it be wonderful if all schools and teachers taught in this manner? I got the opportunity to supervise a Montessori teacher last semester and was amazed at what those students were able to accomplish.
However, how do you think current educators (ones who have been teaching in tradiitional public schools) will feel about this training and change?
That's pretty cool. Dr. Luongo brings up a good point-older teachers probably hate that they have to re-organize their curriculums. And I'm sure some of them were up in arms about it. We know how teachers love to complain. :)
Susan's comment is right on point!
Teachers love structure.
Teachers love familiarity.
Teachers love teaching what they taught last year...and the year before...and the year before that.
In other words, teachers hate change.
Let's hope *we* can change that...
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