and input from a department subcommittee. The new program replaces the traditional lecture-based format of learning with student-led, problem-based learning. Members of the history and English departments have joined together this year to design and teach parallel courses matching the study of American history with period literature. Spanish classes integrate work in the art studio into their cultural studies. And AP United States History teachers Erik Treese and Alison Hogarth have woven together content and lesson planning so that students can — and do — transition seamlessly from one teacher to another if they need to make up a class or receive extra help. “Each of us brings something to the table — we have different areas of interest and our own ideas,” explained Treese. “Throughout our department we often remark about the mix of input into lesson plans from both past and current history faculty. It’s important to keep what works, but it’s also key to know that we have the support to be creative — and to continue to move forward if something doesn’t work.” Treese and Hogarth see evidence of how their collaboration is making an impression on students. “Our students know that Erik and I work closely together, planning the course, writing tests, and even co-grading assessments,” said Hogarth. “As a result, they, too, collaborate — students study together even if they have
Matt Roach (English), Kurt Bennett (English/history) and Stef Graefe (history) discuss ways to align literature and history lessons.
18 Peddie Chronicle
Biology students created comic books illustrating the ways creatures adapt for survival.
different teachers, and they often attend review sessions with a teacher they don’t have in class.”
Working across disciplines There are larger academic undertakings whose roots lie in this culture as well. Peddie’s Digital Fabrication Lab, for example, has its origins in the math department. Several years ago, teacher Mark Sawula and department chair Tim Corica sought to further develop programming and technology offerings. They approached Rodrigue, who in