Integration enriches the curricula by making connections and extensions. It involves relating information across and within subject areas. Integrating curricula takes many forms. It could be implemented as a year- long thematic plan, a unit of study, or a brief allusion to a topic, historical reference, place, person, or current event. One goal of integrating curricula is to make strong connections between the content being taught and real world experiences. Mastery of content aids in developing positive attitudes toward learning! Success builds success!

If one looks at a single piece of a jigsaw puzzle, he/she could determine its shape, colors, and size. However, one would not likely be able to grasp its orientation or its meaning in the “big picture” without having access to the pieces which surround it in the puzzle. Integrating curricula is like providing the setting for a concept – the surrounding pieces of the puzzle.

Integration offers a format for critical thinking, cooperative learning, and debate. Taking into account the learners’ skills, interests, and needs, the learning environment sets the stage for exploration, discussion, and the sharing of perspectives. This social interaction is motivational for many learners and offers a format for practicing social skills and building confidence in the “sharing of ideas.”

As learning opportunities are designed, give consideration to the material covered and ways to connect the information to the learners’ “real world.” Real world connections increase the value of the information and skills being learned. Helping learners to see the connection between what is learned today, what was learned yesterday, and what will be learned tomorrow gives them a sense of urgency to become involved in the learning process. Another motivational element of this process would be allowing the learners to have a voice and a choice in the learning process. With careful attention to creating sequential and challenging learning opportunities, learners will realize even greater pride in their work and a greater sense of capability.

In Eric Jensen’s book, Teaching with the Brain in Mind, he states, “interdisciplinary and cross-disciplinary integration creates much more relevance and context, and helps students understand the connections in learning” (96).