1. Using Evidence to Guide Teaching Decisions

Importance: Teaching is most effective when it is based on data rather than intuition. Tracking student progress, using formative assessments, and relying on evidence-based strategies to make informed decisions.

• Use progress tracking graphs to monitor student learning and adjust lessons as needed.
• Implement formative assessments like quick check-ins, thumbs-up/thumbs-down, or exit tickets to see what students understand before moving on.
• Base lesson planning on student responses and adjust activities accordingly.

2. Quality Over Quantity in Teacher Talk

Importance: Students learn more when teachers focus on clear, concise, and purposeful communication rather than excessive explanation.

• Keep instructions brief and direct—give students just enough to get them started, then step back and let them explore.
• Use open-ended questions to encourage critical thinking and deeper discussion.
• Balance teacher talk with student talk by incorporating think-pair-share, and group discussions.

3. Effective Assessment Strategies

Importance: Assessment should not just measure learning but support and enhance it. Teachers assess learning while students are still in class, they can intervene immediately rather than waiting until work is submitted.

• Think of assessment as “when the cook tastes the soup” (formative) rather than waiting until the meal is served (summative).
• Use techniques like pose-pause-pounce-bounce to engage all students in answering questions.
• Encourage students to reflect on their own learning through self-assessments and peer discussions.

4. Cooperative and Peer Learning

Importance: Learning is more effective when students work together. Peer tutoring, cooperative learning, and student-led discussions help build social cohesion, motivation, and deeper understanding.

• Implement C3V4ME(See 3 Before Me) —students ask three peers before seeking teacher help, encourages independence and collaboration.
• Use peer tutoring in small groups, where students help each other before the teacher intervenes.
• Create classroom norms that promote teamwork, active listening, and respectful discussion.

5. Encouraging Independent and Play-Based Learning

Importance: Students learn best when they take ownership of their learning. Hands-on, play-based, and exploratory learning help students stay engaged and develop problem-solving skills.

• Set up high-engagement activities like play-based centers, project-based learning, and inquiry-driven tasks.
• Give students choices in how they approach tasks (different materials, group work or solo work).

By incorporating these strategies, I can create a more engaging, evidence-based, and student-centered classroom!