Covering the Curriculum as a New Teacher: Quality Over Quantity

Starting a career as a new teacher can feel like stepping into a whirlwind. You're faced with a multitude of programs and curricular expectations, and the question looms large: How can you fit everything into the school day? It's a daunting prospect, but here's the reality check – you probably won't be able to cram everything in every single day, and that's perfectly okay. In fact, it might be the secret to becoming a more effective educator. So, if you're a new teacher wondering how the heck you can manage it all, read on.

Remember these two crucial things: Quality over quantity.

Prioritise Depth Over Breadth:

It's tempting to try to cover as much ground as possible in your teaching. After all, there's so much to teach and so little time. However, it's essential to shift your perspective. Instead of spreading yourself thin, focus on going deep. In other words, quality over quantity. When you dive deep into a topic, your students are more likely to grasp and retain the information. So, how can you do this?

Reflection Question: Ask yourself, "What's the purpose and intention of this lesson or series of lessons?" If you're adding something new, consider removing something less essential to make room for depth.

Evaluate and Streamline:

As a new teacher, you might be excited about introducing new programs or teaching methods. While innovation is fantastic, the reality of limited time in the school day means you need to be selective. Here's where the art of evaluation comes in.

Take a close look at your curriculum. Identify what truly matters and what might be less crucial. If you're adding something new, think about what you can remove to make space for it. This intentional approach allows you to prioritise your teaching efforts effectively.

Reflection Question: Am I teaching the same content repeatedly and potentially missing specific learning outcomes? Are there opportunities to integrate content across different subject areas (KLA's)?

The truth is, as a new teacher, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the overcrowded curriculum. The good news is that educational reforms are often underway to streamline and condense it. However, while waiting for these changes, you can take proactive steps:

• Conduct a curriculum audit using a content/outcome checklist to map out what you're already covering.
• Explore how you might be addressing math and literacy outcomes in other subject areas.
• Consider where there might be opportunities for cross-curricular teaching.

As a new teacher, it's natural to feel the pressure of fitting everything into your teaching day. But remember, you're not alone in this struggle, and it's okay not to cover every single thing every day. Prioritise quality over quantity, go deep into topics, and be intentional in your teaching. While we may be dealing with an overcrowded curriculum for now, you have the tools to navigate it effectively. With reflection, evaluation, and a focus on what truly matters, you can thrive in your new teaching role.

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