Lesson Design

A model of instruction that moves from specific examples to concepts to one big idea.

Analyze is like a gateway that connects the lower- and higher-levels of Bloom's. But make sure you're truly asking an Analyze-level question!

This math puzzle wasn't so puzzling. What went wrong?

How to use a classic to revamp a study of context clues.

After looking at dozens of lessons folks sent in, I came up with three big ideas to address.

While "engagement" is fun, it shouldn't be our main goal.

So your students can identify a story's problem and solution. Then what?

Go beyond merely explaining strengths and weaknesses and get students thinking in interesting ways.

A big, impressive product doesn't mean that there was big, impressive thinking.

Comparing fraction strategies? Let's take it even further!

A high level of thinking in math also requires the support of thoughtful scaffolding.

Why just "identifying patterns" isn't deep enough.

Rather than just learning about one structure, let's climb Bloom's and think more deeply.

The word "Create" can mask low-level tasks. Here's why I avoid using it in objectives.

Just because a task is "creative" doesn't mean students are at the top of Bloom's Taxonomy.

Want your students to ask better questions? Why not train them to inquire!?

In a Concept Attainment lesson, we give students examples and non-examples of a concept -- without telling them what that concept is!

As a new teacher, I only knew one model of instruction: Direct Instruction. I was like a chef who only knew how to deep fry!

A delightfully ambiguous framework that is quick to prepare, but can last forever!

What would it be like if students graphed characters from stories? Historic leaders? Elements from the period table? Objects in space?

What separates difficulty from complexity? And why do complex tasks lead to much more natural differentiation?

My early lessons didn't even have objectives, let alone good objectives! Here's how to build four-part, differentiated lesson objectives.

Who would win in the Tournament of Least Useful Geometric Shapes or Bravest Shakespearean Characters? Create an academic tournament and watch your students' brains sweat!

Here's a simple task that will add complexity to any content from any grade level!

Learn to lead a lesson that is built entirely on student curiosity.

With inductive thinking, students will work from parts to whole, discovering big ideas along the way!

Here's how one teacher uses inductive thinking to help students respond to literature.

Take direction instruction beyond a monotonous practice of the same skill over and over.