concept-based instruction

Concept-based instruction allows the integration of learning across the disciplines, incorporates new knowledge into prior knowledge, and facilitates multi age learning experiences under one theme. Concepts are abstract and can be linked to more than one subject area, domain, or discipline.


Concepts help students develop greater capacity for abstract and complext thought, transformation, problem solving, and connection making. Experts use concepts during problem solving to clarify their thinking. Concepts help students organize ideas and retain content.

What is a concept?

It is a big idea with generalizations that translate across disciplines. Examples:

  • CHANGE
    • change may happen quickly or can take time
    • change may be perceived as positive or negative
    • change can happen naturally or be manmade
  • SYSTEMS
    • systems are made up of parts that may be interdependent
    • systems have boundaries
    • systems have input and output
  • POWER
    • power is the ability to influence
    • power can be used or abused
    • power is always present in some form
    • power can take many forms (chemical, political, mechanical, etc.)
  • PATTERNS
    • patterns exist in the natural and manmade world
    • patterns help us organize and simplify information
    • patterns reflect the past and help predict the future
    • patterns may be cyclical and can change over time

What is a generalization?

A generalization is a statement that shows a conceptual understanding that may be applied in two or more content areas which:

• Defines, describes, or explains concepts

• Organizes and summarizes information obtained from the analysis of facts

• Have broad applications and encompass many specific examples

• Does not include data or facts

• Leads to the achievement of genuine understanding

• Helps students make explicit connections among knowledge/facts that might not be readily apparent