&MON FRASER UNIVERSITY
I*
Summer Semester 2002
EDUC377 -4
Sandra Swan
Special Topics:
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Office: TBA
Middle School Theory & Practice
Phone: 291-3395
E-mail: sandraswan@shaw.ca
Wednesdays 17:30-21:20 in EDB 8620 ?
E01.00
PREREQUISITE:
EDUC 401/2
DESCRIPTION
This course is a "hands on, minds on" approach to understanding and implementing best practice at
the middle school level. It is intended to examine and analyse the attributes of exemplary middle
schools. The course is designed for preservice and beginning teachers who are, or anticipate
teaching at the middle school level. This course will also be appropriate for those who anticipate
teaching upper intermediate students in the conventional elementary school and for experienced
teachers who are new to the middle school model. It will examine the theoretical foundations of
and practical approaches to the purpose and nature of middle school pedagogy. Participants will
engage in a variety of learning activities and experiences that reflect sound middle school practice
and will be required to examine and analyse these in the light of the constructivist and
developmental theories addressed. Particular attention will be paid to the following components
of
the middle school structure: teaming, for both students and teachers; exploratory and advisory
programs; varied modes of instruction.
OBJECTIVES
• To provide practical instructional experiences which apply and allow for examination of the
essential elements of middle school pedagogy, curriculum and organization
• To provide an understanding of the unique developmental characteristics of early adolescents
• To provide an understanding of the historical background and current trends in middle school
practice
REQUIREMENTS
• Research project (30%)
• Group unit plan design (30%)
• Portfolio of mini-assignments (30%)
• Participation (10%)
Required readings to be announced. A photocopy fee will be applied. Copies of recommended
readings will be available in CET and/or put on reserve in the library.
