James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2021

ED2492 - Junior Curriculum 1

Subject Description

The subject will include critical investigation of the rationale for a selected learning area, the nature and design of the Australian Curriculum framework in this area and specific teaching models, strategies (including ICT use) and resources pertinent to this area, with particular reference to the Australian Curriculum (ACARA, 2017). These will be contextualised within the fundamentals of curriculum design, with a focus on constructive alignment of content, pedagogy and assessment to meet the needs of diverse learners. The subject develops pre-service teachers' competence in planning, implementing and evaluating/reflecting in their junior secondary area of teaching. The subject builds a repertoire of strategies informed by learning theories and scholarship. There is also an emphasis on authentic professional practice to develop pedagogical content knowledge through performance-based assessment and engagement with the profession. To complement and enhance curriculum development, a core strand of the subject will also focus on ICT as a general capability across the secondary curriculum.

Learning Outcomes

• analyse the underlying theories of the discipline and how these have informed current curriculum frameworks and approaches
• develop skills in planning, implementing and assessing a sequence of learning activities for the diverse needs of students
• develop knowledge of learning area requirements and a range of issues that impact on teaching and learning in secondary contexts
• Demonstrate a thorough knowledge and understanding of the contributions ICT can make in supporting a range of differentiated learning opportunities for diverse students
• articulate and build a repertoire of learning/teaching strategies in their teaching areas including strategies for teaching literacy, numeracy and the safe, responsible and ethical use of ICT across the curriculum and classroom situations

Subject Assessment

• Oral > Presentation 1 - (15%) - Individual
• Written > Learning plan - (55%) - Individual
• Performance/Practice/Product > Portfolio - (30%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Special Assessment Requirements

The completion of the required consecutive 10 days of Professional Experience and submission of a Satisfactory grading - Minimum of Developing Adequately in all descriptors on the Professional Experience Report is a requirement to pass this subject. Attendance at Professional Experience Briefings is an essential component of Professional Experience preparation.

Availabilities