Intro to Model

Component 1:
Choose a Local Issue

Component 2:
Research the Issue

Component 3:
Analyze the Research

Component 4:
Develop an Action Plan

Component 5:
Take Civic Action

Component 6:
Assessment and Reflection

Introduction to the  KAT Model

Woolsair students research: a walking tour of their neighborhood.

About KAT gave you a philosophical framework for implementing KAT.   Here we provide an overview of the Model your class will use to explore their local public policy issue and take civic action.  The model contains 6 key components. 

There is a link to each component of the Model listed on the left bar.  If you follow these links, you will find a brief  introduction and then, using two different issues selected by two different schools, we'll show you how KAT comes alive at each step.  

Choose a local issue to explore

• under control of local authorities
• of direct concern and interest to students
• manageable within the time frame

Research the issue

• history
• factual bases
• public opinion
• alternative perspectives
• multiple sources; multiple types of sources

Analyze the research

• distinguish fact from opinion
• recognize arguments
• verify accuracy of facts and arguments
• identify points of view
• evaluate evidence
• look for patterns

Develop an action plan

• restate the problem
• develop possible alternatives
• analyze feasibility of solutions
• choose best solution for the "public good"

Take civic action

• inform the public
• convince local authorities
• participate in planned course of action

Assessment and reflection

• self evaluation
• teacher's observations
• apply knowledge to new situation

Although this presentation shows the components in sequential order, it is likely that your work will take you back and forth across these components.

Only a Glimpse

Please remember that this "walk through" is only a glimpse of  how the model works in action.  The KAT Model is flexible, adapting to different kinds of communities and issues, different grade levels and student abilities, and to different timetables. The Model is a tool to accomplish a variety of curriculum standards. 

We strongly encourage you to obtain the KAT Teacher's Manual in order to expand your repertoire with relevant sample lessons, techniques, strategies, activities, and assessment rubrics and formats.

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