Just this week I had an interesting conversation with my CT for TE 401. I am placed in a first grade classroom and we were discussing some of my curriculum I am covering for my literacy lesson plan. She was really pleased to see that I was incorporating some science into my lesson. This brought up the discussion that there has been talk of eliminating science and social studies all together from the grade levels K-4 for extra literacy instruction. The school district is concerned with the large percentage of students who are below grade level in their literacy skills. To me changing the curriculum is the easy out and what should really be taking place is a change in the way teachers are presenting the material. At risk students don't need extra time in literacy instruction that is already ineffective for them, these students need additional time using a variety of instruction strategies to improve their skills. The school could also budget for extra help, such as more special education teachers who have the education and knowledge to help bring these children up to their grade level.
Another point that comes to mind is what happens for teachers who have social studies subject matter focus? Are they going to be as marketable as other teachers who have an ELA major? Am I going to be able to find a job as easy as some of my other peers?
This is something that I am going to continue to watch and look into. Even if this was just talk amongst this school district, it is definitely something to put a lot of thought into.
