Envisioning an Arts-Integrated Curriculum at JCDS

One possible way to increase cross disciplinary teaching and learning, and integrating all subjects at the JCDS is to weave the arts throughout the curriculum. This cutting-edge approach to learning, much of it based on the theory of Multiple Intelligences, has been researched extensively in recent years. The research shows that the more fully and thoroughly arts are integrated into academic work, the greater the gains in overall achievement for students. (Putting the arts in the Picture: Reframing Education in the 21st Century. Nick Rabkin and Robin Redmond, 2004.)

Weaving the arts through the fabric of the school will have a significant positive impact on

• interpretation of complex texts, most importantly the Torah. Through the arts students find multiple and creative ways to “visualize the text,” and find creative ways to interpret text so it connects to students’ personal experiences and to their world;

• incorporating Judaic Studies with General Studies curricula and visa versa;

• honoring individual expression;

• respecting multiple intelligences and diverse learning objectives.

• building community through theme-based creative learning experiences, performances and exhibitions.

Main Principles of an arts integrated curriculum:

1. JCDS will focus on teaching THROUGH the arts during the school day – using the arts to integrate the general studies and Judaic studies curricula. Through this model, the general/Judaic curriculum will be woven together and will honor and support the multiple learning styles of its students.

2. All arts-integrated units will be co-planned by a teaching team which will include arts teachers, general studies and Judaic studies teachers.

3. The arts will provide multiple forms of expression and communication to all individuals in the community and to the community as a whole. The focus will be on interpretation, and finding meaning.

4. The arts will create a sense of community and purpose in learning by ending in a public performance or exhibition.

5. Intensive learning IN the arts will be available to students through after school programs with arts-integrated teachers and professional teaching artists from the community.
   

More specifically, the goals of the study of arts at JCDS will reflect the principles and goals of the school – Klal Yisrael, Kehila, Neshama, and Da’at.

Klal Yisrael:

• The arts will help create a community of learners around Jewish culture and art.

• The arts will help the community embrace and appreciate the diversity of creative voices, and visions of the Jewish people.

• The arts will help illuminate ideas and issues from the Torah and the study of Hebrew.

Kehila:

• The arts will help to create a sense of community within the school.

• The arts will help members of the community to be more respectful of others, and more tolerant and open to different ideas.

• The arts will help the community embrace and appreciate the voices, ideas and visions of other cultures around the world and in our local community.

• The arts will provide opportunities for parents, businesses, and other arts and community, organizations to be involved with the school.

• The arts will help all community members appreciate and understand the world around them.

N’shamah:

• The arts will provide a sense of the beauty and awe in the world around us, and help reveal the spiritual beauty in nature, in people and in creative ideas.

• The arts will help community members develop pride in their work

• The arts will allow all individuals in the community to express themselves creatively, and in their personal voices.

• The arts will promote individuality, and bolster self-confidence.

Da’at

• The arts will show the community that wisdom/intelligence can be found in multiple forms of expression – musical, kinesthetic, visual, linguistic, logical-mathematical, inter- and intra-personal.

• The arts will help build a school climate with high expectations, discipline, and academic rigor.

• The arts will help strengthen student problem-solving, creative and critical thinking skills by focusing on interpretation of text.

• The arts will help students develop craft, quality performance, and goal-setting.

• The arts will provide alternative approaches learning and teaching.

Principles of the General Studies Program
 Inquiry-Based Science Program | Math Curricular Guidelines

Workgroups: School Structure | Judaic Studies | Diverse Learning