Curriculum Maps are GOLD, but only if you know what to do with them. Otherwise they are just a document with info you don’t know how to use. Or even worse, you don’t even know where to start with one.
Chances are, when you student taught, you didn’t have to do this. You probably didn’t in your undergrad either but somehow we are supposed to know what to do with a curriculum map.
This is a blank Curriculum Map. In each row, I list what I’d teach during each month (the columns).
This is what my basic 2nd grade map looks like. I’ll also add in assessments, literature to use, and dances I’ll teach in certain areas.
As you can see, I’m not presenting a concept every month, some of the concepts in 2nd grade are tied to each other (EX: tie/half note, and re/pentatonic).
How to pick what goes where
When you fill out a curriculum map, the first thing need is your scope and sequence. Scope and Sequence is putting concepts (the scope of what you’ll teach) in order (sequence). The scope and sequence is up to you. Or your district. Some things are pretty universally agreed on like teaching beat before you teach any rhythm element.
There is no one right scope and sequence. It’s important you make these choices for yourself if your district doesn’t offer guidance because it makes a difference in everything else you pick. You create your entire scope and sequence, then break it into grade levels. For example, write ALL of the rhythm concepts out, put them in the order you want to teach them, then break them apart.
Now What
After you plot out your curriculum map, you can break down how you get there. Concepts Plans are a document with everything you need to teach one concept. Read more about them here. I’ll be going more in depth about these soon!
Why you need a curriculum map
You wouldn’t drive from NY to LA or Orlando to Seattle without ever consulting a map, would you? Yes, there may be detours, or roadblocks, but the basic path will remain the same.
- Your admin will be happy
- It gives you a goal. If you don’t have one, you’ll end up looking for activities to keep students busy but learning. But if you are just activity hunting, nothing will feel cohesive, and you’ll never feel like you have it all together. You may end up in Texas when you meant to go to New Hampshire.
- It gives you a timeline. It may not be exact, but you’ll know if you get VERY far off course. One caveat here though. As a newer teacher, or if you are at a new to you school, the map may take longer.
Resource
Looking for something to help you curriculum plan? This set has curriculum map templates, AND some done for you! Check it out here: TpT | Website
Want to schedule some time with me to look at your curriculum map? I’m available for short lessons! Send me an email and let’s chat! Hope this gave you some ideas!
