TEACHING AND LEARNING UPDATE
Dear Parents and Carers,
As part of Sacred Heart's commitment to fostering Highly Effective Teaching, I am pleased to inform you about a significant professional learning initiative our school has undertaken. Our dedicated team of teachers has recently engaged in professional learning centred around Rosenshine's Principles of Instruction, a key priority within our SCS diocese. Rosenshine's Principles of Instruction is a set of rigorous research-based guidelines, designed to improve teaching effectiveness and student outcomes, and promote a culture of questioning, modelling, and repeated exposure.
What are Rosenshine's Principles of Instruction?
Rosenshine's Principles provide a clear framework for effective teaching practices, which include:
- Daily Review: Reinforcing previously learned material to ensure retention and
understanding.
- New Material in Small Steps: Introducing new information gradually to avoid overwhelming students.
- Ask Questions: Frequently questioning students to gauge understanding and keep them engaged.
- Provide Models: Demonstrating examples of problem-solving and thought processes.
- Guide Student Practice: Offering support and feedback as students practise new skills.
- Check for Understanding: Regularly assessing student comprehension to address misconceptions promptly.
- Obtain High Success Rates: Ensuring students achieve a high level of success during practice.
- Scaffold Instruction: Breaking down tasks into smaller, more manageable components.
- Independent Practice: Allowing students to apply skills independently to solidify learning.
- Weekly and Monthly Review: Revisiting key concepts to reinforce long-term retention.
How are these principles being applied in our classrooms?
Our teachers are integrating these principles into their daily instruction, creating engaging and effective learning experiences. Here's how:
- Structured Lessons: Lessons are carefully planned to incorporate daily reviews, clear objectives, and small, manageable steps.
- Interactive Learning: Teachers ask questions and provide immediate feedback to ensure students remain engaged and understand the material.
- Practical Examples: Through modelling and guided practice, students gain a clear understanding of new concepts.
- Ongoing Assessment: Regular checks for understanding allow teachers to adjust their instruction based on student needs.
- Supportive Environment: Scaffolding helps all students succeed, gradually moving towards independent practice and mastery.
At Sacred Heart School, we are so very fortunate to have dedicated and passionate teachers who are committed to continually improving their practice. These educators are not only devoted to their students' success but are also proactive in seeking out professional learning opportunities, staying updated with the latest teaching strategies, and incorporating innovative methods into their classrooms.
By embracing Rosenshine's Principles, our goal is to support every student in achieving their full potential. We are confident that these methods will foster a deeper understanding, enhance retention, and cultivate a love for learning in your child.
Thank you for your continued support as we implement these effective teaching strategies to enhance our educational environment.
Warm regards,
Nerissa McCartney
Leader of Teaching and Learning