Chapter 7 (The Effective Lesson)
- Purpose of Activity: Analyze the direct instruction plan presented on page 224 of course text.
- Key Concepts:
- Parts of a direct instruction lesson.
- Importance of using learning probes/checks for understanding.
- Importance of distributed practice and review.
- Effectiveness of small group discussion.
- This activity should be completed at the conclusion of the discussion of the chapter. It can serve as a review for the concept of direct instruction.
- Divide your class into groups of four to facilitate more active
involvement. Have them list the parts of a direct instructional plan.
(You can have them use pg. 222 for this activity.) Then you can list
them using the following format:
- Next, add this to the chart above (i.e., Supports Learning). Then have the groups read the lesson on page 224, and complete the chart by
explaining how each part of a direct instructional plan supports students'
learning.
- Have groups report and complete the chart with their answers. To
facilitate the charting of this, have students share the pen.
- In order to ensure the understanding of the effectiveness of direct
instruction, please use the following technique to summarize the work
just completed:
- Assign each member of every group a number from 1-4. If you have seven groups of four students, you will then have seven students representing each number from 1-4. This will increase student involvement/engagement for this activity.
- Place this graphic organizer on the board:
- Randomly call a number from 1-4. Have all the students stand-up who have been assigned the number. Then ask each student to identity why direct instruction is effective and write their responses on the chart. Continue until all numbers have been called.
- For two minutes, have your class complete a reflection on the
effectiveness of direct instruction. Permit several students to share
their reflections.
