Instructional Strategies

Small Group Instruction

In this bite, we discuss the basics of small group instruction in the secondary classroom.

Asset Based Thinking

In this bite of learning, we discuss the importance of asset based thinking in the secondary classroom.

Synchronous & Asynchronous Instruction Tips

Tips #1: Synchronously Build Community with Fun!

Tips #2: Start with Low Stakes Interactions

Tip #3: Use a Combination of Synchronous and Asynchronous Instruction

Tip #4: Be Predictable

Tip #5: Let the Activity Determine the Method of Delivery

Tips #6: Use Asynchronous Time to Plan, Connect and Mark

Synchronous Instruction Tips

Tips and Best Practices for Engaging Distance Learners in Synchronous Instruction

Think the only way to instruct synchronously is by live streaming a lecture for 5 hours? Think again!

Jill offers some great tips and best practices when engaging your distance learners in synchronous instruction.

5 Tips for a Successful Synchronous Live Meet

In this bite of learning, Jill shares 5 tips for a successful synchronous online meeting.

  1. Use an agenda

  2. Start with an ice breaker

  3. Use the chat strategically

  4. Try small groups

  5. Encourage students to reflect

Agenda Template

Synchronous Activities

Reviewing Vocabulary with Jamboard

This bite models using Jamboard to review vocabulary in a variety of subject areas.

Here is a copy of the Jamboard for you to use .

Using Polls to Gauge Student Understanding

This bite models how to create and use a poll during a virtual meeting to gauge student understanding or build community.

3-2-1 Chat

Want to get your students talking? Try starting with the chat feature in a Google Meet or Bongo. Let them type first and then move onto talking. This bite of learning describes and models how to use the 3-2-1 chat strategy to engage students in dialogue.

Here is a link to the slide show and sample prompts for your use.

Breakout Rooms

Breakout rooms are a great way to allow students to collaborate in small groups or to work in a space that suits their learning needs while keeping the teacher easily accessible if support is needed.

5 Ways Teachers Are Using Breakout Rooms

Station Rotation

The station rotation model allows teachers to engage in small group instruction while providing collaborative or independent learning activities for the remainder of the class. It is an effective strategy in both hybrid and full distance models.

Station Rotation in an Era of Social Distancing

Flipped Learning Flow

This strategy from Catlin Tucker leverages video to provide direct instruction, freeing the teacher up for other tasks such as connecting one-on-one with students, recording assessment data, or completing other administrative tasks.

A Flipped Learning Flow for Blended or Online Classes

Hyperdocs and Playlists

Hyperdocs and Playlists are an engaging way to allow students to set the pace of their learning while freeing up teachers to coach individual or small groups of students or attend to other tasks.

Playlists: A Path to Personalized Learning

Asynchronous Tips

Reasons to Record Instructions

Jill discusses the benefits of recording instructions.