This module discussed ways to engage students at the beginning of a lesson through the use of a hook, access prior knowledge and communicating the lesson objective. My key takeaway from this module were the strategies discussed for hooking the student; tell a story, use a prop and do something unexpected.

This module discussed ways to engage students at the closure of a lesson through the use of summarizing what you learn, check for understanding and transitioning to future instruction. My key takeaway from this module were the pitfalls discussed for closure which include lack of time for closure, lack of energy, and assuming mastery.

This module teaches teachers how to craft and deliver directions that minimize off-task behavior and set students up for success. My key takeaway for this session included making sure directions include the answers to how, what and why students are to do the task. The how section should include the steps to follow, movement, behavior and volume level.

This module presents specific strategies teachers can use to identify how and when to grade, and outlines important dos and don’ts of grading. One key takeaway was that no student should receive a 0%, instead they could receive a 50% if they are turning in the work. Also, mastery-based grading should not include extra credit, behavior, effort, attendance or homework.

This module discusses effective feedback to provide for my students. There are four types of feedback: corrective, timely, specific to criterion and student driven. One takeaway was that feedback should be specific with what the student is doing correctly and what they need to continue to focus on.

This module is designed to illuminate best practices for arranging the physical environment of the classroom as well as thoughtfully modifying the environment to meet students' needs. There are three domains: layout, materials and walls and decor.