Meet Every Learner's Needs

Classroom-tested strategies to inspire true student learning Meet Every Learner's Needs delivers research-backed techniques to transform classrooms into dynamic learning environments in which all students are appropriately challenged—and appropriately supported—every day. Based on teacher and Modern Classrooms Project cofounder Robert Barnett's experience training thousands of teachers worldwide, this book provides a methodology for K-12 educators to design lessons and courses that respond to individual learners' unique needs and help every learner develop authentic understanding. This approach has empowered educators and students in all grade levels and content areas, everywhere from underperforming inner-city public schools to elite international schools, across all fifty states and over 150 countries. The book includes highly practical tips and templates, which busy teachers can use to provide better instruction immediately. Throughout the book, readers will learn how to: Make direct instruction accessible and engaging to all learners Develop strong personal relationships with and between learners Create efficient learning experiences that give learners ownership and autonomy Share this approach with their colleagues and communities Meet Every Learner's Needs will leave readers both inspired and empowered to redesign instruction in their classrooms and communities. It will help educators, administrators, and parents take immediate action to create learning experiences that help all students truly succeed.

Acknowledgments xv  About the Author xix  Foreword xxi  Learning Objectives 1  Introduction: The Fundamental Challenge of Teaching 3  Part 1 Redesigning Lessons 17  The Challenge of Lessons 19  Step 1 Digitize Direct Instruction 27  Step 2 Get Learners Working Together 45  Step 3 Sit Down With Your Students 55  Step 4 Require Mastery 67  Part 2 Redesigning Courses 85  The Challenge of Courses 87  Step 5 Help Learners Set the Pace 95  Step 6 Develop Sustainable Systems 111  Step 7 Track and Communicate Progress 123  Step 8 Inspire Students to Excel 137  Part 3 Redesigning Instruction 151  The Challenge of Instruction 153  Step 9 Prepare for Launch 163  Step 10 Build Buy-In 175  Step 11 Empower Your Colleagues (Should-Do) 191  Step 12 Shape the Conversation (Aspire-to-Do) 201  Conclusion: Change Starts Every Day 215  Notes on Research 225  Notes on Teacher Tips 229  Index 231