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Standard 3 - Understanding and Organizing Subject Matter for Student Learning
Teachers exhibit in-depth working knowledge of subject matter, academic content standards, and curriculum frameworks. They apply knowledge of student development and proficiencies to ensure student understanding of content. They organize curriculum to facilitate students' understanding of the subject matter. Teachers utilize instructional strategies that are appropriate to the subject matter. They use and adapt resources, technologies, and standards-aligned instructional materials, including adopted materials, to make subject matter accessible to all students. They address the needs of English learners and students with special needs to provide equitable access to the content.
3.1 Demonstrating knowledge of subject matter, academic content standards, and curriculum frameworks
As teachers develop, they may ask, “How do I…” or “Why do I…”
Ensure that my subject matter knowledge is sufficient to support student learning
Guidance: Conduct self-assessments, reflect on lesson outcomes, and participate in peer reviews. Use diagnostic tools to identify gaps in your own content knowledge.
Continue to keep my subject matter knowledge current
Guidance: Attend professional development workshops, subscribe to journals, participate in online communities, and take coursework aligned to your subject area.
Identify, understand, and teach key concepts and themes in the standards/frameworks
Guidance: Study the vertical and horizontal alignment of standards. Break down complex standards into essential questions, skills, and vocabulary.
Integrate concepts and connections across subject areas
Guidance: Use interdisciplinary planning to link content across English, math, science, social studies, and the arts. Design thematic units or project-based learning experiences.
Incorporate diverse and discipline-appropriate perspectives
Guidance: Integrate multicultural content and viewpoints into instruction. Ensure cultural relevance by including voices historically excluded from academic narratives.
Maintain and utilize current understanding of content standards and frameworks
Guidance: Refer regularly to the California Department of Education standards site. Engage in curriculum mapping and PLCs to stay updated on shifts or updates.