Informal Curriculum

There are multiple perspectives in the field of curriculum studies regarding definitions of curriculum. This variation is particularly the case when curriculum is qualified with a descriptor. In the case of the term informal curriculum, the usage also varies although most commonly it is contrasted to that of formal curriculum. The formal curriculum is the material and content explicitly taught in schools. This curriculum is inclusive of state guidelines and the accompanying material to be disseminated from a teacher to students in classrooms. The teaching associated with the formal curriculum is generally guided by scope and sequence that drive lesson planning. Often instruction for pupils in classrooms is based on what educational governing bodies in individual states have determined should be taught in individual grade ...