Conceptual ThemesEach elementary and middle school grade level focuses on a theme, also known as a macro-concept. These concepts are used in all subject areas to add depth and understanding to students’ thinking. Students make connections using the theme, helping them to understand and think deeply about the content of what they are learning. For example, in second grade, the theme is systems.
Think of all the connections students can make: systems in language, government, civilizations, mathematics, science, nature, and the list goes on and on. Conceptual themes help to organize information, connect it to other information, and recall it when needed. This is much like a file cabinet housing different information in organized folders. These concepts help students to make meaning and see how different information is related. What a great way to help children make sense of the world and all the knowledge they acquire! Each theme builds upon the next. For example, exploration leads to identifying patterns, patterns are found within systems, systems are related to structures, etc. |
Themes
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Kindergarten: Exploration
1st Grade: Patterns 2nd Grade: Systems 3rd Grade: Structures 4th Grade: Relationships 5th Grade: Change |
Others
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For personalized learning in the upper grades, students incorporate other themes (macro-concepts) including CONFLICT, POWER, ORDER VS. CHAOS, MOVEMENT, LOVE, and BEAUTY.
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