2. Identifying the Topic You Will Teach and Its Relationship to the Larger Curriculum:

Special Note: Many teachers, students and interns have completed CTC reports for our pilot studies. Their work has provided the core of the samples below. We have, however, modified some of the selections to maintain confidentiality and to ensure that the samples reflect the revisions we have made in the instructions. Some were completed by experienced teachers, some by interns and others by students early in their programs. Thanks to everyone who helped us with the original samples. Your input helped us make this a better process for all.

Sample 1.

The purpose of this activity was to teach students how to use a microscope. We have recently begun a unit on the water cycle including conservation and quality of water. Once the students have learned how to use the microscope, the class will be able to observe the microscopic life found in a water sample. (5th grade science)

Sample 2.

The topics of these lessons are careers and skills necessary to complete job applications and interviews. The lessons are to be taught in a peer class that promotes student self confidence and provides real life experiences. The peer class teaches students ways to cope with issues that they are currently facing or may face in the future. Since many of the students will be looking for summer jobs, this lesson will provide them with the necessary skills and confidence to obtain a job. This is an Intensive learning Alternative Class made up of students who are at risk of dropping out. Therefore, teaching students about various careers and providing them skills to obtain a job is critical. (Middle School Alternative learning Class)

Sample 3.

The topic I will focus on is ending sentences with correct punctuation. I have been working on writing with my students all year. This fits with the Sunshine State Standards for writing and with FCAT Writes. Punctuation is of great importance for the students in their future. (Approximately, 2nd grade level, continuous progress school)

Sample 4

The topic of these lessons is to write a poem based on the model "Where I Am From" by George Ella Lyon. This bridges our units of poetry and biography/autobiography. This is a less structured modeling activity than others we did in the poetry unit. It will involve prewriting, drafting, peer editing, revision and publication, diverse voices -- all elements of the Sunshine State Standards; (The original report spelled out the standards listed here: LA.B.1.3.1-1.3.3; LA.B. 1.4.1; LA.E.2.3.4; LA.B.2.4.3.)

It will also enhance understanding of the Six Traits. (Middle school languge arts)

  Sample 5

Section 2: Identifying the Topic
Scientific Revolution When selecting a topic I chose to use most of the information from the book and chose this topic because it was necessary to cover and it went along with the 2 previous lessons learned (Reformation and Renaissance). This topic relates to others because it brings information about the Scientific Revolution to history and incorporates information that is learned in science classes and technology classes. Another reason is that these students are part of the Engineering Learning Community at their school. The following two are standards that this topic covered: SSA. 1.4.2 Identify and understand themes in history that cross scientific, economic and cultural boundaries; SSA.3.4.5 Understand the significant and social changes from the Age of reason through the Age of Enlightenment. (Secondary Social Studies)

Sample 6

Topic: Writing and Solving Equations and Inequalities
The state of Florida mandates that we teach this topic to eight grades students who are enrolled in regular eight grade math courses by October 22, so that all students are prepared to take the Benchmark exam in December.
Mathematics is a subject area in which each lesson prepares students for future lessons. Writing and Solving Equations and Inequalities prepare students for studies in Algebra, Number Theory, and Geometry. Each of these studies will be introduced later in the school year.
Standards:
Strand: Algebraic Thinking
Sunshine State Standards: D.2.3.1, D.2.3.2
Review solving one-step addition or subtraction equations using rationals Review solving one-step multiplication or division equations using rationals. Solve two-step equations using rationals
Solve and graph one-step inequalities
(Middle school math)