The practical approach of this comprehensive core text for elementary and middle curriculum courses (specifically designed for students without a background in curriculum development) offers very current treatment of curriculum issues, instructional planning, and new curriculum standards. The text is unique in that it teaches the skills of curriculum development and instructional design. While a balanced coverage of viewpoints has been attempted, this book is intended to open new avenues to students by including educational futurism in a curricular model. The practical design of the book guides students into the expanded role practicing teachers will use in curriculum and instruction in the decades to come.