Curriculum begins with the parts of the whole. Emphasizes basic skills. Curriculum emphasizes big concepts, beginning with the whole and expanding to include the parts. Strict adherence to fixed curriculum is highly valued. Pursuit of student questions and interests is valued.
Materials are primarily textbooks and workbooks.
Materials include primary sources of material and manipulative materials. Learning is based on repetition. Learning is interactive, building on what the student already knows. Teachers have a dialogue with students, helping students construct their own knowledge. Teacher's role is directive, rooted in authority.