Unit 2 examines the major physical, cognitive, and socioemotional development from early childhood (ages 2-7) to adolescence (ages 12-21). Theorists, such as Piaget and Vygotsky, have widely contributed to our understanding of the cognitive development of children and will be explored in greater detail throughout the coming chapters. In addition, the child’s self- concept and gender identity will be examined from a cultural framework. This unit will also reflect on how the parenting style contributes to the overall personality and degree of emotional attachment. Importantly, signs and symptoms of childhood abuse will be reviewed, as will corrective forms of action.
The middle childhood years (7-12) present a rapid change in academic functioning and physical growth. These milestones, along with changes in social relationships, and family dynamics will be explored in greater detail. Lastly, as we delve into the adolescent years (12-21), everything from the physical changes during puberty to the social and emotional changes associated with teen drug use, sex, and identify formation will be explored. Unit 3 will continue to examine the areas of change and continuity from the young adult years (early 20’s-early 40’s) to the late adult years (early 60’s through death).
Student Learning Outcomes
Course Objectives
Below are a list of questions that should be considered as you read through the text and complete the activities
Description: The major piece of this activity is the creation of two diary entries of two very different children. You will imagine 'a day in the life of' for them, and what each would be writing in their diary or journal at the end of such a day. To begin, you will want to conceptualize two children from diverse backgrounds and contexts. Use class concepts and theory to inform your choices in what would impact the child's life: e.g. parenting style, friendships, how they are coping through Erikson's stage of development, sociocultural factors, socioeconomic factors, etc. Your choices can be yours, they simply must be very different to give your entries contrast and practice in concept application and imagining what their lives would look like. Next, you should hand write the diary entry – be as creative as you like! - for each individual. Diary entries should be personalized, in the first person, and evocative of what the child is going through to demonstrate class concepts. Lastly, write a brief analysis that describes your choices and the relevance of class concepts to your diary entries
Description: This is an in-class viewing of the pilot episode of the television show Freaks and Geeks. It is available with a Netflix account and utilizes closed captioning. Students will be given a sheet with the following questions for a preview of what to look for, as well as a character list. Students should be encouraged to take notes while viewing. For the activity, students can either write a response in-class, or as an at-home assignment to be turned in the next class period. The following are the character list and questions: