Though classroom instructional strategies should clearly be based on
sound science and research, knowing when to use them and with whom is
more of an art. In The Art and Science of Teaching: A Comprehensive Framework for Effective Instruction,
author Robert J. Marzano presents a model for ensuring quality teaching
that balances the necessity of research-based data with the equally
vital need to understand the strengths and weaknesses of individual
students. He articulates his framework in the form of 10 questions that
represent a logical planning sequence for successful instructional
design:
What will I do to establish and communicate learning goals, track student progress, and celebrate success?
What will I do to help students effectively interact with new knowledge?
What will I do to help students practice and deepen their understanding of new knowledge?
What will I do to help students generate and test hypotheses about new knowledge?
What will I do to engage students?
What will I do to establish or maintain classroom rules and procedures?
What will I do to recognize and acknowledge adherence and lack of adherence to classroom rules and procedures?
What will I do to establish and maintain effective relationships with students?
What will I do to communicate high expectations for all students?
What will I do to develop effective lessons organized into a cohesive unit?
For
classroom lessons to be truly effective, educators must examine every
component of the teaching process with equal resolve. Filled with
charts, rubrics, and organizers, this methodical, user-friendly guide
will help teachers examine and develop their knowledge and skills, so
they can achieve that dynamic fusion of art and science that results in
exceptional teaching and outstanding student achievement.