AN ARTS-BASED CURRICULUM FOR LITERACY: A PROJECT STUDY

Abstract

This thesis presents theory and rationale for an arts-based curriculum for literacy in regard to philosophical, psychological, and sociological questions in curriculum design. A conceptual framework for an arts-based curriculum model is described in terms of structure, content, community, organization, and implementation. Planning features and formats are presented. Criteria and instruments for assessment of the model and child response to implementation are described and interpreted. The arts-based curriculum model was implemented in a classroom during the 1986-1987 school year. Observations were recorded and selections are presented in narrative form. The observations are discussed in relation to concerns of children, literacy learnings through art concepts, application of arts and language arts skills, and classroom management. Recommendations for implementation of the model and for further research are included.