On-Site Workshop Topics

Understanding by Design (Basics)
Exploring Backward Design Instructional Planning

Understanding by Design is a powerful, research-based framework for re-thinking the design, delivery and evaluation of standards-based instruction for the purpose of maximizing students’ understanding and their academic achievement. This popular training will provide you with an opportunity to explore the essential elements of this proven and highly-effective framework. It includes:

• The “backward design” logic and model for developing curriculum, instruction and assessment
• Criteria for prioritizing curricular requirements and determining “big ideas” worthy of teaching for deep understanding
• Continuum of assessment – the “scrapbook” versus the “snapshot” approach for determining evidence of student achievement
• Guidelines for selecting and/or designing learning experiences that are effective, engaging and aligned to the learning outcomes

This exciting training has revolutionized the way many educators around the state plan and deliver their classroom instruction. Once you master the principles of backward design your professional work will never be the same!