This week, we have been diving into the world of concepts verses topics in our social studies class. Going into this class, I thought that I understood what a concept was, but I was very wrong! I believed that concept was pretty much just another word for topic. Instead, concepts are the general, universal, timeless, and abstract pieces that include many different topics.
In doing more research on the differences between concepts and topics, I found a great blog post from an AP literature class that I felt did a really good job of visualizing the idea of a concept versus a topic. Plus, it is incredibly similar to what Dr. Parker explained in his presentation. Below, I have attached a link to the blog.
I think that it is really important that in my classroom, I am not only teaching topics, but more concepts as well because it is so easy to tie in so many different topics into one concept, therefore, giving my students the opportunity to learn much more!
Link to Concepts vs. Topics Blog: http://blogs.yis.ac.jp/hougha/2014/09/05/concepts-vs-topics-whats-the-difference/
Great post Megan! I totally agree with you in what you thought your understanding of a concept was. I never thought of it as anything more than a topic also. Now that I have been informed, I now know. The blog post about concepts was very helpful.And yes, we can not just teach topics, we have to teach the whole concept. Good job again.
ReplyDeleteMegan,
ReplyDeleteI am glad that the difference between concepts and topics is getting clearer for you. I am glad you found another resource that can help you develop your own understanding.
In future posts, be sure you fully articulate on the points in the checkbric. It is important for the reader to have enough information to make sure out of your blog.