The second edition of Keys to Planning builds upon the information shared about effective curriculum, unit, and lesson design by introducing current research and thinking related to curriculum design. The information presented in this second edition also captures insights and suggestions from classroom teachers who have attended workshops given by the presenters and who are now developing and implementing thematic units in their classrooms. The intent is not to convey how teachers might do things better, but rather is intended to focus the discussion on how teachers might do things differently given the need to support learners as they acquire the skills needed for 21st Century Literacy and Global Competence.

Language educators and experts Donna Clementi and Laura Terrill have created a useful guide to assist teachers, curriculum designers, administrators and professional developers in designing thematic units where unit goals and summative performance tasks are organized around the World-Readiness Standards. Starting with an understanding of the 21st century learner, the authors establish a mindset for creating curriculum that allows learners to develop Intercultural Communicative Competence as they learn more about themselves, explore their communities and engage with the world. The authors explain and provide easy-to-follow templates to develop units of instruction and daily lessons that allow learners to explore mulitdimensional themes and essential questions that provoke critical thinking.

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