The following information was pulled directly from the PDE SAS website.Â
Curriculum Frameworks include Big Ideas, Concepts, Competencies, and Essential Questions aligned to Standards and Assessment Anchors and, where appropriate, Eligible Content.
Curriculum Framework Definitions
Big Ideas
Declarative statements that describe concepts that transcend grade levels. Big Ideas are essential to provide focus on specific content for all students.
Concepts
Describe what students should know (key knowledge) as a result of this instruction specific to grade level.
Competencies
Describe what students should be able to do (key skills) as a result of this instruction, specific to grade level.
Essential Questions
Questions connected to the SAS framework and are specifically linked to the Big Ideas. They should frame student inquiry, promote critical thinking, and assist in learning transfer.
Introduction
Long Term Transfer Goals, Big Ideas, and Essential Questions
Subject Area Curriculum Framework