Early Childhood Education: Observation, Assessment, and Curriculum Models

What is an example of observational documentation?

Written log of things children are doing (notebook), anecdotal notes, running records, checklists, rating scales, frequency counts, photos.

What foundational practice must teachers base their decisions on according to code?

Developmentally appropriate practice (DAP).

What term refers to adapting teaching methods and resources to accommodate diverse learning needs?

Differentiated instruction.

What is an example of authentic assessment?

Asking a child to demonstrate reading a skill rather than using multiple choice.

What are three strategies in early childhood that support literacy development?

Alphabet book and games, phonics awareness, writing centers, journaling, felt boards.

What are three emergent curriculum models?

Reggio, Project, Montessori.

What assessment method involves watching and recording behavior in a natural setting?

Observation.

What is the continuous process of collecting, organizing, and interpreting information about children's learning?

Assessment.

What is it called when two or more ethical responsibilities or principles are in conflict?

Ethical dilemma.

When educators advocate for better working conditions, what ethical responsibilities are they fulfilling?

Community and society.

What is the idea that letters and groups of letters match individual sounds in words?

Alphabetic principle.

What belief do all emergent curriculum models share about young children?

That they are competent, capable, and active constructors of their own learning.

What type of curriculum arises when teachers intentionally build learning questions and investigations?

Emergent curriculum.

What are two benefits of observational assessment?

Natural environment (holistic picture) and ongoing assessment.

What term describes a test that yields consistent results across different users or times?

Reliable.

What are the types of learning formats in the early childhood classroom?

Large groups, small groups, play/learning centers.

What is the first step used to identify which children may be at risk for a disability?

Screening test.

What is an integrative thematic unit?

A topic and questions to answer across domains.

Who is the inventor of the unit block?

Caroline Pratt.

What are the most important math skills for preschool and kindergarten students?

Number and operations, 1-1 correspondence, subitizing.

Who promoted constructivist teaching of mathematics in early childhood?

Constance Kamii.

What type of assessment compares a child's early year observations to end of year observations?

Summative assessment.

What are three important indicators of systemic observation?

Objective, reflecting after, set the scene.

What aspect of education is frequently cited as a concern due to bias and negative impacts?

Standardized testing.