From Post-Its to Purpose: Using Curriculum Storyboards to Draft a New Course

Can I draft a storyboard for a new course?

The short and the long answer is a resounding yes!

Most new courses go through a process to be listed in the program of studies for students to enroll. I have worked with many school clients to craft a course to secure resource commitment and buoy enthusiasm for new opportunities.

Framing a new course using the storyboard format delivers a compelling overview of the learning journey for prospective students, administration, and guidance counselors while still being agile enough for further development in the day-to-day planning.

1. Lay out the topics for the possible course.

I suggest using post it notes or a virtual space where it is easy to begin to move the topics around.

2. Consider the degree of flexibility you have for the course.

For example, designing a course based on an anchor resource, for college credit, or for an industry certification, you may have less flexibility in the arrangement.

3. Begin to make some creative choices as to how the approach and layout of topics.

For example, how the course be different if we experimented with changing from topic to one of the other genres?

• Topic: subject matter groupings emphasis on information and background
• Theme: conceptual emphasis that ties together information and background; frequently interdisciplinary in nature
• Problem: focus on addressing a problem with the goal of a solution; information serves the inquiry
• Issue: examining a point of controversy to consider points of view; perspectives; and consequences
• Case Study: A specific situation or text where considering the granular can shed light on other situations.

This also is a natural springboard to generate possible ideas for authentic assessments.

4. As you are playing and sketching possibilities, start to look for a narrative throughline.

Perhaps a big idea starts to take shape that can be framed as an Essential Question for the course. Perhaps it is the development of content and skills.

If you are interested in seeing an example ... reach out and I will share one with you!

About Allison Zmuda and Reimagining Curriculum

Reimagining Curriculum: Engaging Learners for an Inspired Future is a newsletter dedicated to helping educators design learning experiences that are dynamic, accessible, and meaningful. Drawing on over two decades of experience, Allison Zmuda shares insights into streamlining curriculum, crafting compelling narratives, and empowering both students and staff to engage deeply in joyful and aspirational learning. Learn more about Allison on her website, allisonzmuda.com.