ILA

FIRST ATTEMPT

My initial ILA journey began with a Year 5 class. The teacher and I had been to a PD day specifically aimed at planning an inquiry unit in geography. The day began as a whole group being led through “unpacking the syllabus” so that as teachers we understood what the curriculum was about. We analysed the rationale and aims. We studied the structure with a particular focus on the geography and inquiry skills and inquiry questions. We then focussed more closely on the year level we were going to teach and “unpacking” what was required. We then began planning, with an emphasis on “backward planning”. That is focussing on our goal first.  The geographical knowledge and understanding component focus was the impact of floods on environments and communities, and how people can respond. This was chosen as the area we taught in had been affected by floods and that the students would have some prior knowledge to start their inquiry from. They would incorporate geographical inquiry and skills into the study. The Year 5 curriculum can be viewed by clicking on the following link. http://www.australiancurriculum.edu.au/Geography/Curriculum/F-10#level=5

As Geography was a new subject for the teacher and the students, it was decided to spend a couple of lessons exploring “What Geography Is?” The first lesson involved brainstorming the topic as a whole class, then breaking into smaller groups to research and write a definition for the question. As the TL, I worked with a group in the library. We brainstormed again what they thought geography was; discussed where we might be able to verify our thoughts; and then researched. To ensure a good definition was gained, the students elected to use a variety of resources. Some used search engines or online encyclopedias; others applied their knowledge of the Dewey system and explored the shelves relating to geography; while others decided to refer reference material such as dictionaries. We then gathered back together and shared our information. From there a definition was developed and refined. The students constantly reassessed their language to improve their definition. They then illustrated their definition with examples. The final product was to be displayed in their classroom. The initial lesson produced much enthusiasm and interest.

The second lesson, we decided to show the students a video clip explaining the importance of studying geography. The youtube clip, Geography Matters, by David Rayner (2008), was used to tune the class into where geography fits into their lives.

Unfortunately, that is as far as this ILA journey went.

 

 

TAKE TWO

The second attempt produced a change in year level, subject and topic. This ILA involved Year 9 students studying the Industrial Revolution in History. The ILA was part of a 7 week unit. Although not ideal, the teacher and I only became involved during the research assessment part of the stage. The school does not have a TL. Participating in this ILA has provided valuable insight into the different implementation of units in different sectors.