To create a capacity matrix, begin by stating the desired aim or intended result. This is the overall capacity to be understood. For example, writing a persuasive essay or how was our government created. Next, list the major components or capacities of the expected aim. Break each of the capacities into smaller components - these are the details to be learned. Work the groupings of the capacities until you are satisfied with their relationship to the overall focus. Using a spreadsheet application like Excel will help you create the capacity matrix more easily.
Below is an example of a capacity matrix for one of the units of study in my class. This shows one f the Big Ideas and its break down for our Creating a Government Unit
Across the top are the levels of understanding that the students use in charting their progress. You should operational define each level with the learners when introducing this tool. The learner shades in the appropriate box as he or she increases his or her level of understanding. The categories on I use are: "I know this," "I can do this on my own," "I can teach this to others," "I can apply this in new ways." Students really need to be, at least, to the "I can teach this to others" level for each piece on the capacity matrix before they attempt the unit assessment. Across the rest of the matrix I have listed the relevant page numbers from our class textbook for each capacity breakdown, what class assignments go with each capacity breakdown (we do NOT give any assignment that is not clearly related to the capacity matrix), for which topic will there be an in-class "workshop" or "Big Shows" (more on that later) and what videos are available online for my students to view from our class moodle page.
A capacity matrix should be designed to meet the needs of a specific area. Copying a capacity matrix from another teacher can create confusion for your students. The best course is to construct your own for the specific needs of the specific group of learners you have.
No comments:
Post a Comment