ABSTRACT
How do teachers create a thematic interdisciplinary unit that considers content first?, while also teaching literacy We suggest using the Content-Driven Integration (CDI) model, which breaks down the process into five steps. Following the CDI model, we start with a real-world problem and a single focus content area (mathematics, social studies, or science), then build in the literacy objectives while reaching content goals. For the first step, teachers determine the driving inspiration for the unit considering the classroom context and the main content area goals. Then, create a concept map focusing on the main content area to determine the big ideas and essential question(s). Next, use the concept map to find connections to other content areas and their standards and create the content area learning objectives. Finally, create the summative and formative assessments for the full unit, including all content areas. From this process, teachers will be ready to plan lessons that will set students up to successfully complete their assessments and meet their objectives!
