CUS3701 - Study Guide - 2021 Revised
CUS3701 - Study Guide - 2021 Revised
CUS3701 - Study Guide - 2021 Revised
of Curriculum and Instructional Studies
CURRICULUM
STUDIES
Only Study Guide for
CUS3701
University of South Africa
Open Rubric
1© 2020 University of South Africa
610000151
7CUS3701/1/2021–2025
MNB_Style
CONTENTS
233 Page
INTRODUCTION v
Learning unit 1: Debates on curriculum approaches as an evolving social construct 1
Learning unit 2: Contribution to the evolving nature and characteristics of the school
curriculum 16
Learning unit 3: Strategies for engaging with the school curriculum and policy 22
Learning unit 4: The development of the school curriculum in ways that are informed
by contextual realities, the nature of multi-cultural schools and
classrooms, historical legacies and social diversity, including ubuntu
principles 30
REFERENCE LIST 40
MULTILINGUAL GLOSSARY 41
(iii) CUS3701/1/2021–2025
(iv)
1. INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the module Curriculum Studies. We hope that your journey with us through this
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module will be an exciting one and that it will inspire you to become the kind of teacher
that schools need. If you are already that kind of teacher, then we hope this module will
make you an inspiration to both other teachers and your learners in the classroom.
When you have completed this module, you will know the different roles that a teacher
11
When you read through this module and complete the activities and assignments, do
12
not see this module in isolation from other modules in your programme.
13 This study guide must be used with your prescribed textbook. Your prescribed book is:
Edition: 2016
24
html?id=H2ADDAAAQBAJ&redir_esc=y
27 Additional E-recources
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/270013541_Africanising_the_curriculum_An_
29
exploratory_study
30 Africanisation of Curriculum
31 https://www.journals.ac.za/index.php/sajhe/article/view/402
(v) CUS3701/1
2. WHAT DO WE EXPECT YOU TO DO AT THE END OF THIS
LEARNING EXPERIENCE?
2.1 Purpose
The purpose of this module is to explore the general principles underpinning the planning,
34
organisation, implementation and review of the curricula in general and the South African
school curriculum in particular. The module will help you to understand, adapt and
contribute to the evolving nature of the school curriculum. Besides being an interpreter
and implementer of the curriculum, teachers need to understand legislation, prescribed
policies and approaches regarding curriculum development. You have to be able to
analyse the existing lesson plans and resource material in order to prepare instructional
designs with effective teaching, learning and assessment in mind.
2.2 Outcomes
35 The course content should enable you to do the following:
• Discuss, compare and evaluate key ideas and debates on curriculum approaches and
the school curriculum as an evolving social construct.
• Identify, implement and justify a variety of roles that make a positive contribution
to the evolving nature and characteristics of the school curriculum, focusing on the
curriculum in diverse contexts – plan and practice, taking the CAPS in consideration.
• Identify and justify, varied strategies for engaging with the school curriculum and
policy in ways that are appropriate for different purposes and contexts.
• Use innovative ways to contribute to the development of the school curriculum in
ways that are informed by contextual realities, the nature of multi-cultural schools
and classrooms, historical legacies and social diversity, including Ubuntu principles.
• Practice effective questioning, assessment and feedback of the intended curriculum.
learning outcomes as well as activities for you to complete at the end of each learning
unit. Also make use of the multilingual glossary at the end of this study guide.
The study guide is written in the form of a conversation and should be used together with
37
your prescribed text book. As with all good conversations, the study guide works best if
you participate. In order to encourage your participation, we have included many activities
to make you think. In fact, your work is the most important part of the study guide. If you
neglect to do the activities, you will skip a major part of the learning experience, which is
to practise your own understanding of particular concepts. Please follow the instructions
in Tutorial Letter 101 regarding the submission of assignments.
Another very important requirement of our conversation about the content of this
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module is that you reflect on and understand what you read. It is important to know
(vi)
that understanding (as opposed to rote learning) develops in layers. Think how we get to
know things in the world. When we are first introduced to an idea, it seems strange and
confusing. It is only once we think, talk, read and write about things on a regular basis
that their full importance becomes clear to us.
Although the study guide already constitutes a conversation, we advise that you also set
39
The study guide makes use of a variety of techniques that includes dialogues, scenarios,
40
case studies, debates and mind maps to structure the teaching. It is written in an inductive
manner, which means that you will arrive at the principles yourself. The comments and
explanations throughout will highlight important principles. Therefore, when talking
about concepts, interpretation and implementation, we will use case studies, debates and
arguments to allow you to transfer the theoretical ideas to your own context. Activities
are for your own use; do not submit them to your lecturer. Reference to a “journal”
means your own book (journal) for your own use, notes and preparation.
A vital learning skill is the ability to plot your own progress. This is only possible if you
41
keep a record of your understanding throughout the module. You may then return to
the earlier work and see how your understanding has changed. This makes your study
guide a very important part of your learning strategy. It will become a record of how your
thinking has evolved.
4. CLOSING REMARK
We trust that you will enjoy and do well in your studies. If you experience any problems
42
with your studies, you are welcome to contact me. Please see my contact details in Tutorial
Letter 101.
43 Your lecturer
44
(vii) CUS3701/1
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(viii)
Learning unit 1
Debates on curriculum approaches as an evolving
social construct
CONTENTS
book. You will notice that chapter 1 mention quite a number of topics to be discussed in
this study guide. Do not become discouraged – this is an exciting field of study and you
will find relevant information for the situation you work in. Take one step at a time and
make sure that you understand the meaning of all the unfamiliar words you encounter.
You will find activities in each of the learning units. Do them in a journal that you keep
for this purpose. These activities are not for submission, but will be for your own records
of your journey through this module.
As you work through each part of this chapter, you should link the information to the
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assessment criteria.
You will notice that the learning unit for chapter 1 is quite comprehensive. The reason for
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this is that this chapter provides you with a solid theoretical grounding for studying the
rest of the study guide. You will find yourself paging back to chapter 1 quite often while
studying the other chapters.
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Learning outcomes
Discuss, compare and evaluate key ideas and debates on curriculum approaches and the
school curriculum as an evolving social construct.
Assessment criteria
1.1 INTRODUCTION
49
This provides an indication of WHY a teacher needs to know the meaning of the word
52
“curriculum”.
• Tyler
• Stenhouse
• Freire
It will be explained in order to encourage you to really understand your role as a teacher
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2
Activity 1.1
Before reading on, write down your understanding (definition) of the meaning of the
word “curriculum”.
The way in which you define “curriculum” is based on prior knowledge as well as on your
worldview. Definitions reflect certain worldviews. Your personal convictions, background
and attitude are reflected in your definition. As your knowledge of curriculum expands,
you will possibly adapt your personal definition of “curriculum”. Revisit this activity from
time to time.
Activity 1.2
Start a word list. Write down every word that you are not sure of. Find its meaning and
write your own comments regarding the word. Add to this list for the duration of your
course. You can also refer to the glossary at the back of your prescribed text book.
55
Mention is made of Grundy (1987), Goodson (1984; 1989) and Goodman (1998). Go to
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the bibliography at the end of the book. Find these authors and look at the dates when
these texts were published. By doing this, you can find the name of the text as well as
where it was published. This is very important in all research as you need to know that
the texts you use are reliable.
If you quote any part of this tutorial letter in an assignment, you should use the correct
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technique.
58 Example:
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Activity 1.3
Syllabus Cirriculum
• Find all the information provided for the word “syllabus” and write this down in the
column on the left.
• Find all the information provided for the word “curriculum” and write this down in
the column on the right.
You will notice that the first two paragraphs describe the meaning of the word “curriculum”
and that the following paragraphs describe a “syllabus”.
Syllabus Cirriculum
• Now write a short explanation of the difference between a syllabus and a curriculum.
• Read the syllabus provided for this module. Is there any link between the syllabus
provided and the exercise you just did? Yes or no?
• Write a paragraph in your journal motivating your answer.
a book written in 1975. That is quite some time ago. However, Stenhouse is one of the
most important authors regarding the curriculum and much of what he has written is
still relevant today.
62 Make sure that you understand the definition as well as the meaning of
• intended curriculum
• enacted curriculum
4
Activity 1.4
Examples of the enacted, experienced or lived (these words have more or less the same
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Awareness of these five aspects of a curriculum helps a teacher to consider the influence
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Scenario 1: Denise Damaso is a Unisa student and a class assistant in a Grade 1 classroom.
Everything learners bring to school is written down in a register and when they go
home at midday, they must ensure that the same number of items is marked off and
returned to them. The teacher explains to Denise that this school rule teaches learners
to take responsibility for their belongings.
What type of curriculum is this?
Activity 1.5
• In your journal, list examples of the experienced, enacted or lived curriculum at the
school where you work. If you do not work at a school, observe as often as possible
the curriculum of a school nearby.
• List three activities for promoting socially acceptable behaviour that can be included
in the covert curriculum in your situation.
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Figure 1.1 in your text book shows how the core activities of curriculum development
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take place. It is a good idea to memorise this figure. Make certain that you understand
the whole cyclic process.
Activity 1.6
outcomes. Make sure that you understand the importance of the envisaged
• aims
• outcomes
• culture
• context
• purpose
Activity 1.7
provided.
6
• Can you see what must be considered?
Activity 1.8
• rationale
• purpose
• content
• skills
• aims
• knowledge
• sequence
• progression
• teaching
• learning
• assessment
• theory
• practice
• priorities
• organise
• logical
If all this is taken into account when designing a curriculum, can we use a one-size-fits-all
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But a teacher should, while preparing learners for the future, never forget the present. The
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curriculum should be suitable for a learner of a particular age and at a particular stage.
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It is important to decide what your priorities are when you develop a curriculum (plan)
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are discussed extensively. Please make sure that you understand the information regarding
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is intended to promote.
87 This means that two ways of choosing knowledge and skills are discussed.
Table 1.1 shows the difference between school knowledge and everyday knowledge. You
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will notice that words such as structured, systematic, written, evidence, generalised,
concepts and discourse are used. After reading all the information included in this table,
you will be able to motivate why written lesson plans are so important!
Two organising principles are discussed. The first organising principle is related to the
91
theory of knowledge and is the starting point of the curriculum; the second organising
principle is related to the specific subject.
92 Make sure that you understand the difference between these two principles.
guidance for teaching and assessment. A guideline document not only helps the teacher
to plan assessment, but also indicates how content should be unpacked for assessment.
Structured guidance for teaching and assessment helps to create a uniform framework
for all assessment.
8
You will not always agree with an author but the more you read, the more you will be
able to form your own unique approach.
Activity 1.9
Case study
Mountain Top Primary School is situated in a beautiful environment in the mountains.
The school consists of eight classes, one for each grade. Although the buildings are fairly
old, the school is well equipped and the teachers have all the resources they need. Much
of the teaching and learning is done outdoors with a focus on the local natural resources.
The learners are encouraged to be active in their community and help each other. Social
and spiritual values are emphasised.
The principal is supportive of everything that the teachers plan. Planning means that each
teacher decides on relevant content and adapts the CAPS document according to what
learners are interested in. Planning is seen as a dynamic process and is done individually
with no communication between teachers. Assessment activities are planned by each
teacher for assessment week at the end of each term.
In your journal, answer the following questions:
(1) What approach is followed at this school?
(2) What positive aspects do you find in the school’s way of planning?
(3) Suppose that the principal retires and that you are the new principal. Using the four
questions we ask about a curriculum, what would you change in this school?
There is no model answer for this activity. However, your analysis of the situation should
be done according to the knowledge of curriculum planning you have gained up to now.
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99 Reflection: What do you think is good in this approach? What is not so good?
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1.3.3 The process approach – Lawrence Stenhouse (1926–1982)
100
103 Reflection: What do you think is good in this approach? What is not so good?
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107 Reflection: What do you think is good in this approach? What is not so good?
108 THINK:
109 Did you notice that the three authors agree on some points?
• Now read table 1.3 which shows what Tyler wrote in 1949.
• Then read table 1.4 which is based on what Stenhouse wrote in 1975.
• Finally, read table 1.5 which is a summary of what Freire wrote in 1970.
111 Can you see that there is a certain development in ideas over time?
10
Activity 1.10
Write down a question you have about the content of every row in the three columns.
Revisit it regularly and write down the answers as you find them while reading.
Activity 1.11
Universal principles
Draw a table in your journal:
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113 Learning implies
between
• the teacher
• the learner
• the context
• content
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Right in the middle of this diagram is a shared area. This represents the universal principles
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• experiential learning
• clarity of focus
• expanding opportunities
• defining outcomes, aims or objectives
• the importance of knowledge, skills and values
• evidence of achievement
• individual learning
• what and whether we learn is more important than when we learn it
The experts who planned the transformation of education and training in South Africa
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(1989–1994) were influenced by the approaches of Tyler, Stenhouse and Freire. In the first
version of the new curriculum, namely C2005, these approaches were combined in a way
that did not work. Different aspects of the policy just could not agree with each other.
Think of the teachers trying to make sense of that.
Fortunately, some revisions and amendments were made. In order to understand the
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history of the curriculum, starting with C2005 and ending with the CAPS, you need to
understand the different influences on the planners and planning of the curriculum.
12
1.3.6 The impact of these approaches in terms of curriculum
interpretation
This discussion is very important. Make sure that you understand how these approaches
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1Self-assessment
121
A B
(2) Read the following case study. Now edit the case study so that the correct words are
used in the context described. Explain your decision.
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The parents at Highveld Primary School requested that all learners should be
trained in self-defence. They believed that this topic should form part of the
syllabus. The teachers agreed to develop content, activities and assessments
that will be added to the curriculum of Life Orientation.
(3) Name five aspects that have to be considered when designing a curriculum. Give an
example of how each of them would influence a curriculum designed for the South
African context.
(4) Read the following curriculum statement and decide on a curricular approach that
would be the best way to design this curriculum. Explain your choice.
The music curriculum at Synergy High School is intended to develop the music
skills of learners and to train learners in a practical and pragmatic way.
The teachers, who are experienced musicians, promote creativity but guide
learners according to their own ideas. Explain why you would use this particular
approach and not any another.
The parents at Highveld Primary School requested that all learners should be
trained in self-defence. They believed that this topic should form part of the
syllabus from Grade 1. The teachers were committed to develop content,
activities and assessments that will be added to the curriculum of Life Orientation.
Why this curriculum?
What will be included in the curriculum?
How will the knowledge and skills be organised?
How will success be measured?
(5b)
T he music curriculum at Synergy High School is intended to develop learners
holistically and to provide support in a practical and pragmatic way. The teachers,
who are experienced musicians, promote creativity but also train learners in the
skills needed for a career in music.
Why this curriculum?
What will be included in the curriculum?
How will the knowledge and skills be organised?
How will success be measured?
(6) Curriculum approaches influence the curriculum choices made during the development
of a curriculum. When a curriculum is interpreted by teachers, their approach has a
specific impact on their class.
14
Use your knowledge of the objectives approach, the process approach and the
pragmatic approach to decide how you would implement the music curriculum at
Synergy High School.
Use the information on dimensions you described in question 5.
123 You can use the following links to learn more about the topics discussed in chapter 1:
125 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MzxBQaHRNew
126 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zenN0RZvLBk
127
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Learning unit 2
Contribution to the evolving nature and
characteristics of the school curriculum
CONTENTS
in your prescribed book, you will learn about the things that influence the teacher’s
interpretation of a curriculum. This is important as you, the teacher, are the person who
will deliver the curriculum in your classroom. You need to understand
As you read through this chapter, link what you read to the assessment criteria.
129
Learning outcomes
Identify, implement and justify a variety of roles that make a positive contribution to the
evolving nature and characteristics of the school curriculum, focusing on the curriculum
in context – plan and practice, taking the CAPS in consideration.
16
Assessment criteria
2.1 INTRODUCTION
Read the introduction to chapter 2. You can also look at the e-resources at the
end of this learning unit.
Activity 2.1
Before reading more, write down your understanding (definition) of the meaning of the
word “context”.
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Activity 2.2
Reflect on the following: How can African values be incorporated into modern education
systems?
135
You will see that he stresses social interaction and social learning. The classroom is seen
136
Remember, this is his point of view. You do not have to agree with or do everything
137
Vygotsky advocates. However, this theory is important for teaching in South Africa.
Activity 2.3
18
Activity 2.4
Focus on the organisational context – the structure and culture of the school.
• In your book, list five important aspects of the context you work in.
• Reflect on this. Will these aspects be as important at a school in a different province?
2.3.2.1 The key economic forces that drive the South African education system
You must ensure that you understand the importance of globalisation and global
140
expectations in terms of skills and ways of thinking. South Africa needs to be able
to compete internationally; in order to do this, we need trained and capable citizens.
141
Are you teaching learners to be hard working and dedicated? Are you setting an example
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for them?
Activity 2.5
• teaching learners the skills and attitudes that will enable them to participate critically
• eliminatingtolerance
promoting of differences
• fostering respect
prejudices
•
List five possible ways of including the above in your teaching methods.
and decolonisation, we think about transformation and the diverse African context.
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Decolonisation is the undoing of colonialism, i.e. where a nation establishes and maintains
its domination over dependent territories; while Africanisation is generally seen as a
renewed focus on Africa – reclaiming what has been taken from Africa – and the emergence
of a new sense of pride.
147
theconversation.com/decolonisation-debate-is-a-chance-to-rethink-the-role-of-
universities-63840
Activity 2.6
Africanisation Decolonisation
2.3.2.5 The influence of the educational system, infrastructure and policies on the
interpretation and implementation of the curriculum
This is a short explanation of the changes in our education system since 1994. Take note
149
Society influences the type of curriculum to be chosen but the curriculum also influences
151
society.
Figure 2.2 shows how contexts influence your approach to and interpretation of the
152
curriculum.
Reflection: Is your personal view aligned with the formal organisational view? Or do you
153
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2Self-assessment
Terminology/ Description X
concept
(2) How does Vygotsky interpret the impact of context in the teaching-learning situation?
Do you agree with his view? Motivate your answer.
(3) Name the content or aspects of the content in the current South African school
curriculum that was included to address the political, economic and social challenges
of the country.
(4) To provide in the specific needs of learners, the teacher needs to adapt the planned
curriculum accordingly.
(5) Give your own example of a situation where the teacher has to mediate between
the planned curriculum and the curriculum that the learners learn in class. Why is it
important in this specific instance?
155 You can use the following link to learn more about the topics discussed in chapter 2:
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/272571996_THE_CURRICULUM_IN_AN_
156
AFRICAN_CONTEXT
development?#slide=1
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Learning unit 3
Strategies for engaging with the school curriculum
and policy
CONTENTS
22
OVERVIEW OF LEARNING UNIT 3
In chapter 3 (CONSIDERING POLICY IN CURRICULUM INTERPRETATION AND
158
Learning outcomes
Identify and justify varied strategies for engaging with the school curriculum and policy
in ways that are appropriate for different purposes and contexts.
Assessment criteria
3.1 INTRODUCTION
159
This paragraph explains that the discussion in chapter 2 will be continued in chapter 3
160
• curriculum changes
• the influence of educational policy on curriculum interpretation and implementation
This means that teachers need to take many factors into consideration when implementing
161
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3.2 CURRICULUM AS POLICY
3.2.1 The question of centralisation and decentralisation
Governments have to make choices to guarantee the sustainable quality and social
162
relevance of education.
163 Can you see that this is a political choice?
164 However, the choices cannot be made without the input of schools and teachers.
Activity 3.1
Think of the situation at your school after the recent policy changes.
In your journal, write a short answer to each of these questions in 3.2.1.
Activity 3.2
Copy the table in your journal. As you read, write short notes in column 3.
1997 C2005
2000 Review
2002 NCS
2009 Panel
2011 Review
2012 CAPS
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3.2.3 Reasons for curriculum changes and reviews
Read section 3.2.3 and THINK about more reasons for curriculum changes. Do
you think the changes improved the CAPS?
168 Reflect: Do you welcome change or does it make your life difficult?
170 Reflect: How would you like to be involved in changes at school level?
you must memorise it but make sure that you know what the documents are about.
example, states how a programme for training teachers must be designed. Obviously,
you will not use this document when planning lessons, but it provides you with relevant
and valuable information regarding being a teacher.
3.3.2.1 A closer understanding of the National Protocol for Assessment Grades R-12
3.3.2.2 A closer understanding of the National Policy pertaining to the Programme and
Promotion Requirements of the National Curriculum Statement Grades R-12
176 The discussion in 3.3.2.1 and 3.3.2.2 is very important for you as a teacher.
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While reading through the information, keep the Protocol and the National Policy open
177
Look at figure 3.3 – much information is needed in a lesson plan but it is worth the effort.
179
It will be your paper trail of the work you did or failed to do. Remember that you need
to state the following clearly:
this in your own situation, you will begin to understand the changes much sooner. Do not
use yes/no answers – write down your thoughts and revisit the questionnaire regularly.
qualification types and their descriptors, and standards for specific qualifications.
Activity 3.3
Google the NQF and browse through the information. Use the following link:
http://www.saqa.org.za/list.php?e=NQF
This module is on NQF Level 7.
Download NQF Level 7 and test yourself against the standards expected at this level.
26
3.4.3 Teacher registration: the role of the South African Council for
Educators (SACE)
Registration at SACE is a prerequisite for being a teacher. This is a positive aspect as it
183
185
186 These roles are still very relevant and are included in the MRTEQ document.
training programmes.
Activity 3.4
Google the MRTEQ using the following link and scan through the information. Make sure
that you know what “subject knowledge” means.
http://www.bridge.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Teacher-Development-Resource-
Standards-Pack-20150723.pdf
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The first four performance standards in the IQMS instrument address the way in which
189
The other standards indicate how the implementation of the CAPS should be managed.
190
In order to implement the CAPS, you have to be familiar with the following policies:
3Self-assessment
NCS CAPS
Content
Assessment
(5) How does the South African policy pertaining to teachers influence your own teaching
practice? Is this a positive or negative influence?
(6) Write the policy name next to the acronym and then write a short description of
what the aim of each policy is.
28
Acronym Policy Aim
NCS
CAPS
NQF
IQMS
MRTEQ
193 NCS: h
ttp://www.education.gov.za/Curriculum/NationalCurriculumStatements
GradesR-12.aspx
194 CAPS: h
ttp://www.education.gov.za/Curriculum/CurriculumAssessmentPolicy
Statements(CAPS).aspx
196 IQMS: h
ttp://www.education.gov.za/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=JJr4X%2BgtLX0%
3D&tabid=447
197 MRTEQ: h
ttp://www.che.ac.za/media_and_publications/documents-interest/
joint-dhet-che-communiqu-implementation-new-policy-teacher
198
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Learning unit 4
The development of the school curriculum in ways
that are informed by contextual realities, the nature
of multi-cultural schools and classrooms, historical
legacies and social diversity, including ubuntu
principles
CONTENTS
30
OVERVIEW OF LEARNING UNIT 4
In chapter 4 (PUTTING THE CURRICULUM PLAN INTO TEACHING PRACTICE: FROM
199
THE INTENDED TO THE ENACTED AND ASSESSED) in your prescribed book, guidance
regarding putting the theory into practice is provided. The practical competencies required
of the teacher are discussed. This is about how to apply the information presented in
chapters 1, 2 and 3.
Learning outcomes
Assessment criteria
4.1 INTRODUCTION
This introduction explains how the theoretical information presented in chapters 1, 2 and
200
201 The practical competencies required of the teacher include the ability to
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4.2 KEY PLAYERS IN CURRICULUM IMPLEMENTATION AND
INNOVATION AT SCHOOL LEVEL
Read sections 4.2.1 to 4.2.4 in your textbook.
Activity 4.1
In your journal, write a paragraph or two explaining how you will build relationships with
parents and organise extra-curricular activities.
planning must be done for a particular school in a particular context. However, the process
of planning should follow the steps discussed below. Make sure that you understand the
way planning should take place in this step-by-step way.
32
Activity 4.2
library”.
Yes, this is not as it should be, but this should not stop you from teaching. Be creative.
209
On the other hand, it is not always easy to plan lessons even if you have computers,
laboratories, textbooks and a library at your school. Media makes lessons more interesting
and can improve the quality of learning, but it is additional and not the main source.
the CAPS. In addition, bookstores offer many interesting possibilities and salespeople
are eager to sell their product.
We have seen exemplary lesson materials teeming with spelling mistakes, ridiculous
212
illustrations, inappropriate language and information that would not work in South Africa.
For example, snowmen are built in Tzaneen; the word “fall” is used instead of “autumn”,
and in one “science” lesson about wild animals, the lions have smiley faces.
213 Exemplary lesson material that is chosen with care can be of great help to the teacher.
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Read section 4.4.2 and make sure that you understand the use and limitations
of exemplary lessons.
With a holistic view of curriculum development, context must always be taken into
consideration.
of teaching strategies. A teacher should be able to adapt teaching not only to the context,
but also to the needs of learners. The following teaching strategies are discussed:
4.6.4 Scaffolding
34
4.6.7 Discussion as a teaching strategy
class to learn. You will, for instance, find comprehensive explanations on the internet
regarding problem solving. However, this information is usually not applicable when
you use problem solving as a teaching strategy according to which learners need to learn
from solving problems. Simulation is simple and fun to use in a classroom. For instance,
role play (going shopping, handling a bully, opening a bank account) is easy to organise.
On the internet, simulation is described as fairly complicated and expensive. Read all
information critically and make sure that examples are suitable for the context you teach in.
Activity 4.3
Write a summary of each of the teaching strategies. Indicate when you would use each
of them, discuss advantages and disadvantages and give examples.
way. This discussion of the assessment of the curriculum emphasises the use of assessment
for improving the implementation of the curriculum as well as the curriculum itself. This
means that assessment must entail more than gathering information on the learners’
mastery of the outcomes because assessment results must also be used to adapt planning.
curriculum.
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4.7.2 Towards effective questioning and feedback
Questions should be clear and learners must know what is expected of them. Feedback
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Activity 4.4
Using the knowledge you have gained and referring to table 4.4, classify each of the
assessment criteria in this learning guide according to the correct cognitive category.
Read the discussion and then go to table 4.4 to see how questions can be
formulated by making use of the taxonomy.
However, these examples should be adapted to the context. This is why it is important
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Activity 4.5
Work through the following scenario and make notes as you read:
Together, Mrs Price and Mr Fortijn worked out a Natural Sciences activity for their learners:
Make a model of a cross-section of a hibiscus flower, using paper, plasticine and wire.
Label the parts: be sure to include the stamen, the stigma, etcetera.
The activity went on to list a number of other things the learners had to include. The
learners completed their models and the two teachers separately evaluated their learners’
models, awarding grades ranging from A to E. There was very little difference in the
performance of the two classes. In both classes, most learners received a C or D, while
there were one or two good performers (graded A or B) in each class.
The following term, the same classes were asked to make plasticine models showing a
cross-section of the heart, labelling certain identified parts. Although this activity dealt with
a different topic (the heart as opposed to a flower), it required similar skills of the learners.
But for some reason, the learners in Mrs Price’s class worked quickly and confidently, with
good results (a number of learners got As and Bs), while the performance of the learners
in the other class had not improved (the majority still got Cs and Ds).
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The two teachers were puzzled. “How is it that one class has developed so well, while the
other has not, despite the fact that we are teaching them in the same way?” they wondered.
An analysis of the situations in the classrooms revealed the following:
Mr Fortijn marked the work and returned it. The learners each received a grade. One or
two also had short, written comments on their scripts. Mr Fortijn did not allow the learners
to look at and discuss one another’s work, because he felt that this would waste time.
Mrs Price, on the other hand, put all the learners’ work on display and invited them to
look at all the models carefully. She reminded the learners of the assessment criteria she
had used to award their grades. (She had given these to the learners before they did the
activity and their work was compared to the criteria as they were working. Their progress
was checked and improvements were made along the way.)
The criteria were as follows:
• Mrs Price and her learners started with the assessment criteria that were going to be
used to evaluate the work. This means that the learners started with a clear picture
of what was required; it gave their learning direction. Therefore, it was a criterion-
referenced assessment.
• The learners were involved in the assessment process. They helped each other to
understand the problems they experienced and discussed what they could do about
them.
• Assessment was part of everyday class work and/or homework. In other words, it was
continuous. The learners tried things out, checked how they worked, and improved
on them. Mrs Price did not teach first and then stop teaching in order to assess. This
indicates that it was formative assessment.
• As her learners developed the skills to evaluate their own and later each other’s work
in a fair and reliable way, they began to take some of the burden of assessment off
Mrs Price’s shoulders. She could begin to delegate the “marking” of certain activities
to groups of learners (although she still guided the marking).
• Did you also notice how Mrs Price integrated teaching and assessment throughout
her lesson? Note how she discussed with the learners the way in which she awarded
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grades and invited them to discuss their marks with her if they did not agree with
her assessment.
Mr Fortijn’s mode of assessment was clearly summative. Although his choice of media was
practical work (a model), he still awarded grades by marking the work and returning it
without any discussion, and gave no further opportunity for the learners to engage with
the task or their responses. This indicates a more competitive and formal assessment.
The fact that Mr Fortijn would not allow any further debate about the marks also implies
that it was a final product.
To encourage more interaction and promote learning through this project, Mr Fortijn could
profit by taking note of findings from research done by Black, Harrison, Lee, Marshall and
Wiliam (2003). Teachers first used mediated practices to support revision and develop
more effective reviewing strategies in their attempt to use summative assessment for a
formative purpose as well. As a second innovation to enable them to come to a better
understanding of the use of formative assessment, the teachers in the research project
done by Black et al (2003) started to involve learners in the assessment process. They then
experienced a change in their role: to that of mediator, supporter, and guide in formative
assessment practices. It was significant that, as soon as the learners had to set questions
and think about what makes a good question, they also realised what they needed to gain
a deeper understanding of the subject material. Regarding how an assessment process
can be changed from a grading exercise to a reviewing, self-reflecting and mediating
process with critical thinking in mind, this exercise had an impact on the understanding
of both teachers and learners. The teachers gained a much better understanding of how
to involve learners in “revision”, and the learners did not merely passively revise some
subject content that they already knew. By answering the questions set by other learners,
they gained a new understanding of good questions and how to use them to improve
their knowledge and understanding of the subject content.
Overall marks are often deceptive. Besides, the emphasis on marks can lead to
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Activity 4.6
Write honest and helpful feedback for the activity in this learning unit that you struggled
the most with.
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4Self-assessment
(1) Describe the stages of planning for curriculum interpretation and implementation.
Indicate who is involved in each stage (whole-school planning).
(2) The teacher has to make important decisions when implementing the planned
curriculum in the classroom. Name four aspects that every teacher should consider
when making these decisions.
(3) Give examples of specific challenges that teachers are confronted with when
implementing the curriculum in South Africa. How would you address these challenges?
(4) With reference to section 4.4, write your own interpretation of in-service teacher
learning under the following headings:
y constructive feedback
y teaching strategies and tools
y effective assessment of the intended curriculum
(6) How would the use of taxonomies help you in your teaching practice?
The internet is a very valuable resource for teachers. You can use the following link
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• https://www.slideshare.net/revolc07/blooms-taxonomy-powerpoint
Remember to use the internet for your teaching practice as well. Open education resources
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(OER) are available to assist you with your preparation and teaching.
• http://www.oerafrica.org/findoer
• http://www.tessafrica.net/
• https://www.siyavula.com/
• http://www.teachertube.com/
• http://www.africanstorybook.org/
• http://hippocampus.org/
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REFERENCE LIST
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MULTILINGUAL GLOSSARY
CHAPTER 1
ENGLISH AFRIKAANS ISIZULU NORTHERN SOTHO
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ENGLISH AFRIKAANS ISIZULU NORTHERN SOTHO
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ENGLISH AFRIKAANS ISIZULU NORTHERN SOTHO
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CHAPTER 2
ENGLISH AFRIKAANS ISIZULU NORTHERN SOTHO
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indigenous knowl- inheemse kennisselsels inqubo yolwazi lomdabu tsebo le bokgoni tše
edge system (IKS) (IKS) (IKS) tšweleditšwego ke
setšhaba
informal traditional informele tradisionele ulwazi olungabhaliwe
knowledge that is kennis wat kultuurspesi phansi ezincwadini kanti tsebo ye e sego ya
culturally specific fiek is en van geslag tot ulwazi lwasemandulo semmušo ya dilo tša
and has been passed geslag oorgedra is noluqondene ngqo kgale ye e lego ya
down from one gen- nosiko kanti lwedluliselwe setšo se itšeng gomme
eration to the next lusuka esizukulwaneni e fetišitšwe go tloga
esithile lwaya molokong o tee go ya
kwesinye isizukulwane go wo o latelago
ngokomlando
ongabhaliwe
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ENGLISH AFRIKAANS ISIZULU NORTHERN SOTHO
zone of proximal sone van proksimale indawo yokusondelana sekgala sa gare seo
development ontwikkeling nentuthuko se tsebja le seo se ka
fihlelelwago
difference between die verskil tussen die umehluko okhona
the learner’s actual leerder se werklike phakathi kwezinga phapano gare ga boemo
developmental level ontwikkeling en hulle lokuthuthuka bja mannete bja tšwelo
and their potential potensiële vlak kwangempela komfundi pele ya moithuti le
level kanye nezinga umfundi boemo bja bokgoni bja
akwazi ukuthi afinyelele gagwe
kulo ngokwekhono lakhe
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CHAPTER 3
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CHAPTER 4
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Source: Adapted from: Gravett, S., de Beer, JJ. & Du Plessis, E.C. 2015. Becoming a teacher.
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