Systematically Design Instruction Toward a Specific Learning Goal

This chapter focuses on three critical elements of instruction: clear instructional goals, logical sequencing of knowledge and skills, and teaching students to organize content. It describes the importance and characteristics of clear learning goals. The chapter examines elements of instructional design that help teachers prioritize and sequence learning goals. It also describes strategies teachers can use to help students make connections. The chapter provides more detail about graphic organizers that may be used to help students organize content. It focuses on what teachers should do in between identifying instructional priorities and teaching those priorities to their students. Clear learning goals help teachers know what to teach and assess, students understand what they are expected to learn, and parents better understand student progress to become more engaged in student learning. The most strategically, systematically sequenced instruction will require adjustments to meet the needs of all learners.