Education
Today, we’re talking about curriculum. And more specifically, how to write your own.For some people, the word “curriculum” may denote academic rigor, standardized tests, detailed lesson plans, and lack of freedom and flexibility. Do you really need this level of planning and detail in your private studio, community group, or church choir?To a certain extent, yes. Here’s why:A curriculum can be defined in a few different ways. My favorite definition comes from A.V. Kelly’s (2009) book, The Curriculum: Theory and Practice: “[Curriculum is] the totality of student experiences that occur in the educational process.”Think of a curriculum like a guide: a plan to help you do your best teaching and help promote meaningful learning experiences. Like I tell my students in Directing a Church Children's Choir 101 and The Art of Music Teaching & Learning, a curriculum is your basic framework for all the teaching and learning you hope will take place this year.Today, I’m going to show you how to create your very own curriculum, something tailor-made to fit your students. This is the same process I teach in my online courses, so grab a notebook and a pencil and let's get started!For show notes, click here.Resources mentioned:Please note: some of these links are affiliate links, which means if you decide to purchase through any of them, I will earn a small commission. This helps support the podcast and allows me to continue creating free content. Thank you for your support!The Curriculum: Theory and Practice by A. V. Kelly (2009)Directing a Church Children's Choir 101 - a 4-week online course for children’s choir directors (enrollment opens June 3, 2020)The Art of Music Teaching & Learning - a comprehensive 8-week online course for music educators in all types of settings. It's like getting a mini-music education degree in only 8 weeks.National Coalition for Core Arts Standards - a guiding framework for arts educationAround the World: Music & Prayers for Children’s Choir"Around the World" Piano ThemeJ.W. Pepper and Sheet Music PlusEpisode 012 - How to Develop Musicianship Skills in Those You TeachWhat to Teach When in Children’s Choir: Preschool, Younger Elementary, Older Elementary (+ a free eBook!)12 Practical Transition Songs to Teach to Your Children’s ChoirThe Ultimate Guide to Children’s Choir Warm-Ups (+ a free eBook!)15 More Singing Games for Children’s Choir (+ a free eBook!)How to Create a Children’s Choir Rehearsal Plan (+ a free template!)Adult Choir Rehearsal Template - a free printable planning tool for a 60-90 minute rehearsal