A Classroom Without Boundaries: A Theme-Based Learning Environment

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A Theme-Based Learning Environment

  • Learning Objectives
    1. Understand the meaning of a “theme based” learning environment.​
    2. Identify the benefits of a "theme based" learning environment.
    3. Understand the importance of embedding the current theme into instructional activities  within the classroom environment.​
    4. Identify ways to embed the theme into instructional activities. ​
    5. Identify ways to successfully “create a classroom without boundaries”.​

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  • What is a Classroom without Boundaries?

    A Thematic Approach to Learning

    “A Thematic Approach is a way of teaching and learning, whereby many areas of the  curriculum are connected together and integrated within a theme” (Ashokan, 2014, p49).

    • This approach generates an immersive and cooperative learning environment.
    • It integrates numerous subjects like math, science, language arts under one theme.
    • It links learning to real world scenarios.

    Any theme should begin by setting up the learning environment so that children can explore the topic. Providing books, stories, charts, pictures, videos, props, games, songs and rhymes for the children is a great start. If it is possible to make a real-life connection to a theme the children will benefit greatly as they are seeing it first hand.

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  • Characteristics of a theme-based classroom environment
    • Interdisciplinary Learning - The theme is embedded in various subject areas.
    • Real world relevance - Students apply their knowledge to real world scenarios.
    • Engagement and Motivation - The activities captivate students’ imagination and interest.
    • Flexibility - Teachers have flexibility when planning activities to address needs of all students.
    • Cultural Inclusivity - Students can be immersed in other cultures.
    • Collaborative Learning - Collaborative learning is promoted through play.
    • Continuous Assessment -Teachers can assess student understanding and skills during thematic activities.
    • Creativity and Innovation - It encourages creative thinking and new ways of doing things.
    • Critical thinking - Students think critically about what they are doing.
    • Personalized learning experiences -Teachers can adapt themes and activities based on student interest.

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  • Theme Based Learning

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  • Benefits of Theme-based Learning Environments
    • Interesting themes encourage a love of learning.
    • Children make deeper connections.
    • Improves communication skills.
    • Children learn about their world.
    • Learning becomes meaningful.
    • It supports different learning styles.
    • Improved engagement and comprehension.
    • Accesses prior knowledge.
    • Builds a depth of knowledge.

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  • Tips for Developing a Theme-based Learning Environment
    • Choose a theme (based on student interest)
    • Plan interesting instructional activities (by subject area) that support the theme and require active engagement.
    • Check the Early Learning Standards for activity alignment
    • Gather materials
    • Make sure activities meet the needs of those who learn differently.
    • Let students make choices within a set of boundaries.
    • Embed activities in centers and small group/large group activities.
    • Try transforming the classroom environment to reflect the theme!
  • Ideas to help Create a Theme-based Learning Environment

    Sample theme : “Seeds and Plants”

    The following are examples of activities that can support the “Seeds and Plants” theme across learning domains:​

    • Language Arts – Book: “Seed to Plant”
    • Math – Math game using parts of the plant or subitizing using seeds
    • Science – Planting seeds ( creating a garden)
    • Social Studies – How plants help care for the planet
    • Art – Plant art using a variety of media

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  • A Gallery Walk through some theme-based classrooms

    Theme: “Zoo Animals”

    • A small group investigative activity
    • The theme is embedded in centers around the classroom

     Zookeeper in a hat talking to kids inside of a classroom with animal themed pictures and toys 

  • Costumes and Writing
    • Animal costumes hang in the Dramatic Play area.
    • Using miniature lions to write the letter L with shaving cream

    Zoo them in classroom Zoo classroom

  • Writing and Books
    • Zookeepers practice writing the letter “L”
    • Writing Center with zoo animal vocabulary words and books

    Children writing the letter "L" with zoopkeepers. Child care Writing Center with zoo animal vocabulary words and books

  • Books and Art
    • A Gallery Walk – “On the Farm” 
    • Writing Center with numerous books about farm animals
    • A collage of theme-based artwork adorns the board.

    Pre-K classroom with zoo items placed around the room Pre-K classroom Writing Center with numerous books about farm animals Pre-K Classroom with a collage of theme-based artwork adorns the board.

  • Art and Charts
    • A Farmers Market
    • Chart stories about the farm line the walls.

    A Farmer's Market in a Pre-K classroom Chart stories about the farm line the walls in Pre-K classrooms

  • A Classroom Without Boundaries Exercise
    • Think of a theme 
    • Think about ways to support learning using a theme-based approach based on previous information shared.
    • How would you ensure the activities align with MD’s Early Learning Standards?
    • What kind of instructional activities will be included in small group/large group/center time/outdoor play?
    • What would the physical environment look like?

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  • Resources

    30+ Best Preschool Themes to Make Learning Fun

    Benefits of Using Themes

    A Giant List of Kindergarten Themes for the Entire Year

    How to Plan Awesome Lessons Around a Theme