Heidi Hayes Jacobs and Allison Zmuda recently celebrated the one-year anniversary of Streamlining the Curriculum. Since the book was published, they have observed a significant impact on educators around the globe.
“We’re seeing how it’s impacting people, from Wales to India, as schools and organizations begin to engage with storyboards in new and meaningful ways,” Zmuda stated.
Jacobs highlighted their work with schools in Hong Kong, where storyboarding is being utilized to improve communication among diverse language groups.
“The visual is consistent and helps with better communication across multiple languages,” she remarked, showcasing the flexibility of their concepts in multilingual educational settings.
Zmuda emphasized the importance of personalizing the storyboard process, noting, “When an organization gets energized about storyboards, they begin personalizing it as well,” indicating that adaptability is a key component of their framework.
Jacobs asserted that core components within curriculum storyboards, such as clarity and compelling unit titles, are crucial for effective communication with students and families.
“It’s not just about the focus of the story; it’s also about how the elements are connected,” she explained, comparing these foundational components to the essential elements of literature.
Aligning learning targets with external educational standards is necessary for effective curriculum design.
“Identifying learning targets that represent larger goals is crucial for ensuring alignment,” Zmuda stated, emphasizing the importance of connections to state, national, or international standards.
Jacobs elaborated on their mission, noting, “It’s about making curriculum and what students experience in school clear. It’s an invitation and a partnership.”
She highlighted the need for educational standards to be translated into accessible language for students, referencing educator Rick Stiggins: “If a student doesn’t know what the target is, they can’t hit it.”
Zmuda and Jacobs are excited about new developments, particularly the idea of a learning journey.
“We want to make it real in the classroom and create a dynamic learning environment,” Zmuda said, indicating a desire for more engaging educational experiences.
In closing, Zmuda encouraged educators to share their experiences and practices that promote thoughtful connections among students, asking, “What fundamental components are helpful to you as a classroom teacher?” This commitment to fostering innovation in education enhances the learning experience for all students.
Heidi and Allison are offering virtual coaching, in-person workshops, and more. If you are interested in learning more, please reach out!