What is it? Why is it important? Before teachers even begin to teach their students a particular lesson, it is important that the students know what is expected of them and what is expected that they will learn. This includes informing the students of the various knowledge and skills that they will need to be able to demonstrate on different kinds of assessments during and at the end of a lesson, chapter, or unit. Furthermore, teachers need to be sure to explain the value in their lessons in hopes of engaging the students, causing them to want to learn, and encouraging them to enjoy the learning process. What are the key elements involved? Value, sequence, and alignment: Regardless of the lesson, students will best be able to learn when they understand the importance of learning and bring to the content an established set of values. This may not come naturally for many students, so teachers must be sure to teach students how to approach their work with such an attitude. Clarity: While what students are doing is important, expectations and learning outcomes must focus on what students will be learning. In addition, appropriate forms of assessment that will be used to evaluate such learning must be included. Balance: Learning should not mean only memorization. Instead, learning should be taken to a deeper level and be demonstrated through critical thinking, communication and collaboration, conceptual knowledge, etc. Sustainability for diverse students: Each teacher will be faced with classrooms that have many different students with unique and individual needs. With this in mind, student expectations need to be designed individually as well. How will I implement this component into my classroom?
At the beginning of each idea or topic being taught, I will explain the purpose of the learning, as well as what is expected that the students will have learned when the instruction has been completed.
When possible, I will use examples from the real world that are relevant to the lives of students in the classroom. This will give the material being taught more value in the students' eyes.
At the end of topics or lessons, I will reflect back on the beginning, reminding students of where they started and how far that they have come.