Dr. Benjamin,

When we met this Summer to discuss CTSL units, I was concerned that I
would fall behind the other 8th grade teachers. As you know, we have a
curriculum map that mandates we cover Chapters 1-5 before the end of the
the first nine week grading period. We each gave the same pretest over
the curriculum to be covered in the first nine weeks the first week of
school. We each were required to give the same test at the end of the
nine week grading period and compare gains and look for any gaps. I used
only three large CTSL units for my instruction the first nine weeks. I
was able to complete the first four chapters and had just started the
fifth chapter when I had to give the posttest. I was worried that maybe
my scores would not be as high as the other teachers who covered the
materials in the conventional way. I used art, music, master works such
as the preamble and Gettysburg Address. The students created a
themepark, analyzed primary sources and wrote a letter as James
Longstreet to his accusers. They researched their most admired people
from history and created timelines. They rewrote the Gettysburg Address
in their own words and created a new state song with lyrics that
described a particular region of the state. Did it work? My test score
gains blew the others away!!!! Plus, I had not taught 1/5 of the
material and still almost doubled the gains made by other teachers! The
data was divided into advanced students, regular students, and students
who were in danger on not passing the CRCT. For those at Gettysburg
College who would like to see if the units help students understand and
retain the content, I have included the data for them to study. How are
things going with the grant's move? The students are realy excited about
creating the story of the Gettysburg Address to teach at other schols
but I told them I am waiting to hear from you. I miss working with you
and the growth as an educator and person you have inspired.

Thomas Panter
Durham Middle School