Homer Elementary uses Direct Instruction Reading in grades Pre-K through 5
What is Direct Instruction?
The term Direct Instruction (DI) refers to a rigorously developed, highly scripted method of teaching. It is fast-paced delivery and provides constant interaction between students and the teacher. Direct Instruction is a model for teaching that emphasizes well-developed and carefully planned lessons designed around small learning increments and clearly defined and prescribed teaching tasks. It is research based and has been in effect for over 30 years. It is based on the theory that clear instruction eliminating misinterpretations can greatly improve and accelerate learning. The goal of DI is to accelerate learning by maximizing efficiency in the design and delivery of instruction.
The creator, Siegfried Englemann and Dr. Wesley Becke and their colleagues believe and have proved that correctly applied, DI can improve performance as well as certain affective behaviors. It is currently in use in thousands of schools across the nation. Schools using DI accept a vision that actually delivers many outcomes.
A crucial element in the implementation of DI in most cases is CHANGE; Teachers will generally be required to behave differently. Teachers must make decisions in response to the children's performance. Some of the most important decisions involve placing each child appropriately and moving the children through the lesson at a pace that maximizes their learning potential. Each child is given a placement test when they enter Homer Elementary. During the course of a few months children will be retested and placed again to ensure appropriate placement and academic growth. The Direct Instruction coaches monitor the placement of every student in grades Pre-K through 5.
The monitoring of the DI implementation is a critical component to its success and achievement of the students. Every teacher provides a monthly pacing guide to the DI coaches documenting lesson gains and mastery test results for all children. The DI coaches visit classrooms to ensure that carefully prescribed instruction practices and techniques are being carried out.
Homer Elementary faculty and staff have adopted and internalized the Direct Instruction belief that ALL STUDENTS, IF PROPERLY TAUGHT, CAN LEARN.
