Date of Award
Spring 5-12-2018
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Education (MSEd)
First Advisor
Sal Vascellaro
Abstract
Many preschool classroom have unit blocks. Unfortunately, not as many early primary classrooms incorporate blocks into their programs. This paper discusses the power of using unit blocks in a Kindergarten and first grade. The first three sections of the thesis focus on the importance of a unit block curriculum in early primary classrooms by discussing the developmentally-appropriate ways blocks invite problem solving and mathematical and scientific thinking. The final section is a teacher’s manual designed as a guidebook to support teachers who are starting a block program in their Kindergarten and first grade classroom. In this manual, critical components of a block program, such as setting up a block center, creating pick-up routines, and connecting blocks to a social studies curriculum are discussed. Overall, this paper and manual demonstrate that blocks are an invaluable tool that integrates learning in numerous ways.
Recommended Citation
Rau, H. (2018). Facilitating a Block Program in Kindergarten and First Grade: A Manual for Kindergarten and First Grade Teachers. New York : Bank Street College of Education. https://educate.bankstreet.edu/independent-studies/207
Included in
Curriculum and Instruction Commons, Early Childhood Education Commons, Educational Methods Commons
Comments
Early Childhood Education