An effective and engaging learning environment requires diverse and interesting instructional strategies. For students to thrive in the classroom, educators must always design instruction with the student in mind. InTASC standard #8 states that “the teacher uses a variety of instructional strategies to encourage learners to develop deep understandings of content areas and their connections, and to build skills to apply knowledge in meaningful ways.” This standard encourages educators to think creatively and tailor their instruction in a way that engages students, and promotes a deep understanding of the material.
#1 Student data to guide instruction
One way I implement the instructional strategies standard is by using student data to drive instruction. I use this in the classroom by using pre-tests before teaching content. Pre-tests give me a window into my students’ minds so I know where to focus my instruction. In a first grade unit on money, I administered this pre-test to students before any instruction began. By using this pre-test I can identify which coins students are most familiar with, and which coins we need to focus on the most. This strategy allows me to collect data on my students’ prior knowledge and it guides my instruction in a meaningful and data-driven way.
#2 Literacy small groups
Literacy groups are an instructional strategy that I find most effective in the classroom. By grouping students together by reading level, I can tailor instruction to target their specific reading literacy goals. Here is an example of a weekly lesson plan I used for a small group of emergent readers. These plans are adjusted for each small group according to their level and include word-study activities and reading/comprehension activities.
#3 Circulating the room
Another instructional strategy I use is circulating the room to check for student understanding. While students work independently, I can gage their understanding by observing their progress and provide support when needed. This allows me to identify students who need extra practice with the content, and/or content that I need to go back and reteach.