Description
Book SynopsisClassrooms are systems, schools are systems, and schooling in the United States is a big system. Changing any of those systems requires an awareness of how they work; what they produce; and where to apply time, energy, and resources. Current systems could be much better in meeting students' current and future needs. Student Relevance Matters: Why Do I Have to Know this Stuff? aims to clarify the most intrinsic reasons to learn, thereby bridging the gap between content and meeting student needs. This allows for compelling visions, and visions are the seed of learning. This book describes current classrooms, students, and the relationships between them through systems viewpoints—one positive and the other skeptical that they are working as effectively as they might. Each content area is viewed through a lens of deep purpose and how that meets students' needs in timeframes that work best for students. Using those purposes as lenses, knowledge areas are redefined and skills provided to help make those purposes a reality in classrooms today.
Trade ReviewA must-read for EVERY teacher, principal, and administrator, at all levels. Times have changed, and our educational systems need to change to keep up with providing a quality education for all students. Dr. Kolis' book gives some great insight on how to do this. This book is timely in addressing accountability and cultural responsiveness. You will want to redesign your lessons in the future. Dr. Kolis' love for learning and passion for the success of all students is evident. -- Michelle Golden, principal, Northstar Middle School, Eau Claire, Wisconsin
I have been extremely fortunate to be part of the many discussions and applications that are the basis for Dr. Kolis' book. The theories and practical application of what is contained in this book changed my teaching from a teacher-centered, facts-based system to a student-centered inquiry system. The results have been an increase in student learning and understanding, students who are acting like scientists, and a teacher who is excited to be 'doing science' with his students! -- Todd W. Lenz, Science teacher, Altoona High School, Altoona, Wisconsin
Dr. Kolis challenges the existing approach to education in this timely text. Following a detailed description of the status quo, Dr. Kolis reframes educational practice in a student-centered useable format that builds upon big ideas as the driving force in teaching. This refreshing presentation breathes new life into the understanding and practice of teaching. I was left with a clear picture of what to do and, as importantly, why these practices should be done. This book is a must-read for educators who are interested in looking more deeply at meaningful change. -- Todd Stephens, Professor of special education, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Kolis (Univ. of Wisconsin, Eau Claire) has written an enlightening, thought-provoking book for educators who believe in student-centered teaching. He presents ideas about how to develop discipline-specific lessons that connect the classroom to the "real world." Many of today's secondary students are interested only in the actual purpose of education; they want to know how this knowledge will help them in college and in the professional world. Kolis inspires teachers to create lessons that challenge young learners to think critically and to look beyond the classroom. Teachers who are advocates for inquiry-based learning, backward design, and teacher collaboration will appreciate all this book has to offer. Kolis even makes reference to "twenty first century learning" and The Partnership for 21st Century Skills, an organization that promotes collaboration between education and the community. * CHOICE *
Table of ContentsForeword Preface Acknowledgements Section 1 And the point of schooling is? A systems perspective Chapter 1 Facts-based instruction – Why it seems to work Chapter 2 Generally accepted patterns and outcomes of facts-based instruction Chapter 3 A skeptics’ view of facts-based instruction Chapter 4 Generally ignored patterns and outcomes of facts-based instruction Section 2 Purposes defined Chapter 5 Why purpose is important Chapter 6 The Purpose of Language Arts Chapter 7 The Purpose of Social Studies Chapter 8 The Purpose of Science Chapter 9 The Purpose of Mathematics Chapter 10 The Purpose of Health and Physical Education Chapter 11 The Purpose of Art Chapter 12 The Purpose of Music Chapter 13 The Purpose of Vocational Education Chapter 14 The Purpose of Foreign Language Chapter 15 All together Section 3 Purposes in the classroom Chapter 16 Knowledge needed Chapter 17 Roles Chapter 18 Compelling why Section 4 Conclusion
