ECH 435 Wk 4 – Signature Assignment: Thematic Unit Planning

A thematic unit is the organization of curriculum around a central theme that includes a series of lessons that integrate different subjects all while tying into the main theme of the unit. When designing an arts-integrated thematic unit, it takes time and focused planning to find the connections between the academic subject and arts that will enhance and deepen student learning.

In this 2-part assignment, you will plan a 1-week unit that focuses on the academic area of your choice (e.g., language arts, mathematics, science, etc.) and integrates technology and visual or performing arts. Your unit must include 3 lessons with learning activities and provide varying styles of formative assessment.

Complete Part 1 and 2 below.

Part 1: Unit and Lessons Outline 

Create a 525- to 700-word outline for your unit. Complete the following in your outline:

• Identify the early childhood age level and academic subject of focus for the unit.
• Describe the overarching theme for the unit.
• Summarize the 3 lessons in the unit, to include:
• Topics and learning objectives
• Learning activities to support the academic subject and the arts being integrated
• Technology incorporated
• Explain the assessments that will be used, to include:
• Formative assessment options for each lesson (must vary in delivery)
• Summative assessment options for the unit
• Present a way for the children to display or perform the art they created.

Part 2: Unit Justification  

Write a 275- to 350-word justification for your unit. Complete the following in your justification:

• Explain the relevance of each lesson to the overarching unit theme.
• Explain how technology and visual or performing arts enhanced student understanding and deepened student learning.
• Explain how the unit and lessons are developmentally appropriate for the early childhood age level.

Compile the following for submission:

• Unit and Lessons Outline
• Unit Justification

Submit your assignment.