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Development of the Brain: Zero to Three Years

A New Curriculum for Middle and High School

Teacher Introduction to the Brain Curriculum

Since the research on early childhood brain development has implications for every adult and child, it is important that students understand the structure and functions of the human brain, how and when it develops, how to nurture its development, and under what conditions development can be impaired.

Objectives of the unit
Students will be able to:
§ Identify the basic parts of the brain,
§ Explain the function of different parts of the brain,
§ Define a "Critical Window,"
§ Explain "Use it or lose it,"
§ Describe the importance of a nurturing environment for infant/child.

Academic Standards
Wisconsin's Model Academic Standards for Family and Consumer Education are included in the Appendices.

How the curriculum is structured
Eight lessons plus Appendices:
· Lesson One: Introduction: Early Childhood Brain Development
· Lesson Two: Biology of the Brain
· Lesson Three: Limbic System: Bonding and Attachment
· Lesson Four: Student Projects and Presentations
· Lesson Five: Pre/Postnatal Use of Alcohol, Drugs, and Tobacco
· Lesson Six: Cortex: Critical Windows
· Lesson Seven: Pre/Postnatal Stress, Trauma, Neglect, and Nutrition
· Lesson Eight: Conclusion: What Every Child Needs
· Appendices

Each lesson includes:
Ø Outline of lesson and a list of teaching resources
Ø Teach Lesson Plan
Ø Teacher Resource Sheets (TRSs) Teacher Resource Sheets contain teacher background information, vocabulary lists, diagrams or explanations to help teach lessons. The teacher can use these sheets in any manner s/he chooses, such as background information, overheads for teaching, handouts for students, and/or tools for review or assessment.
Ø Student Resource Sheets (SRSs) Student Resource Sheets contain information students can read and use for research or review.
Ø Student Work Sheets (SWSs) Students Work Sheets are exercises, work sheets, and/or applications for the lessons.
Ø Other teaching materials, such as newspaper or magazine articles.

Each Teacher Lesson Plan includes:
q Introduction
q Lesson Objectives
q Recommended Time
q Tools and Materials
q Relevant Academic Standards
q Lesson Vocabulary
q Teaching Procedures
q Lesson Extensions/Adaptations
q Assessment Recommendations
q Further Resources for Teachers and Students
q Space for Teacher Notes

§ Appendices include:
1. Bibliography
2. Related Web Sites
3. Wisconsin FCE Academic Standards
4. Teaching Planning Charts