how to write teaching methodology in lesson plan

Lesson Plan Procedures: A Guide for Teachers

Lesson Plan Procedures

In this article, we will explain how to properly perform a lesson plan in school by diving deeper into lesson plan procedures. We will discuss the three major steps involved in lesson plan procedures and share how teachers can self-evaluate their lesson plan success.

What is a Lesson Plan Procedure?

Lesson plan procedures are the sequence or step-by-step guidelines detailing how a teacher plans to deliver a lesson to students. This includes the activities, methods, materials, and timing necessary to effectively facilitate learning.

Typically, there are three stages of a lesson plan that make up the lesson plan procedure. These stages are the motivational opening, the development of the lesson, and the closing of the lesson. However, there may also be some form of formal or informal periodic assessment. Periodic assessment throughout a lesson will alert you to any misconceptions or misunderstandings students may have long before they conclude the lesson.

Let’s take a closer look at the three major stages of effective lesson planning.

Teacher stands at the front of her high school class explaining the lesson plan procedure.

The Three Stages of Lesson Plan Procedures

Step 1: the motivational opening.

The first stage of a lesson plan is critical! It’s how you’ll stimulate students’ interest in the topic.

Start by asking students a thought-provoking question, such as, “How would you like to sleep for four months every year?” or “Did you know we can measure any tree on the playground without climbing it?”Other attention-grabbing openers can include the use of models, maps, apparatus, or a demonstration.

When starting a lesson, don’t make the mistake of assuming what students know. For example, just because students studied American history in elementary school, had a basic history course in middle school, and are now in your high school history class, don't assume they know all there is to know about American history. Take the time to find out. Bottom line: Always know what your students know!

Step 2: The Development of the Lesson

The development of a lesson plan is the heart of any lesson. It’s the portion where you teach and students learn.

This vital stage is when students will obtain valuable information, manipulate data, and engage in active discovery through total involvement. Include some of the following elements in this stage:

Lesson methodologies. Not only is it important to give some thought as to what you're going to teach, it is equally significant that you consider the methods of presentation as well. I'm sure you've been in a class where the only method of instruction was dry, stale lectures. You undoubtedly found the class boring and wearying. The same fate awaits your students if you provide them with an overabundance of one type of teaching methodology to the exclusion of others. (These are addressed in Lesson Methodologies )
Problem-solving. As I discuss in another article , problem-solving is an inherent part of any lesson. Providing students with the opportunities to solve their own problems in their own way is a valuable motivational technique.
Creative thinking. Learning is much more than the memorization of facts. Any lesson must allow students opportunities to manipulate data in new and unusual ways.
Hands-on activities. It's critical that students have sufficient opportunities to create products based on what they learn. These might include but are not limited to posters, dioramas, charts, graphs , mobiles, notebooks, portfolios , and models.
Students critique the directions or set up for a presentation or demonstration.
Students verbalize the steps they're taking during the completion of an activity.
Students manipulate objects or devices and verbalize their feelings about their actions.
Students work in small groups to share information learned and how it relates to prior knowledge.
Students graph or illustrate significant points on the chalkboard for class critique.

Teaching Tip! When creating lesson plans, consider both short-term and long-term projects for students. This will keep the learning experience interesting as you switch up styles.

Class raises their hands to ask questions during the lesson plan procedures.

Step 3: The Closing of the Lesson

The closing of the lesson is a vital stage where you recap key points and help students consolidate their learning. It’s an opportunity to review the lesson's objectives and assess whether they have been met. This can be done through summary discussions, quizzes, or reflective activities.

It's also important to provide an outlook for the next lesson, thus creating a seamless transition and maintaining students' interest.

Teaching Tip! To keep your students engaged, try ending the lesson on a cliffhanger. This can be by proposing a question or telling them an enticing bit of information (e.g.“, Tomorrow I'll bring in a creature with eight eyes. You won't want to miss it!”).

Lastly, it’s good practice to end the lesson on a positive note to boost students' confidence and encourage them to look forward to the next session.

Self-Evaluation in Creating Lesson Plan Procedures

As you write lessons, include a brief section at the end that allows you to self-evaluate. This will be important when and if you decide to teach the lesson again. It will also provide you with some important insights relative to your perceived level of success.

You might consider some of these self-evaluative questions:

“How was my pacing?”
“Did students understand the content?”
“Did students understand the important concepts?”
“Did I use my time appropriately?”
“What changes should I make the next time I teach this lesson?”
“Were students engaged and involved?”
“What new activities or procedures could I include?”
“Did I present the lesson well?”

Featured High School Resources

lesson plans for animal farm - kit for a complete unit on the novel

Related Resources

About the author

Digital Content Manager & Editor

About haley.

Support our educational content for free when you buy through links on our site. Learn more

What Is Your Teaching Methodology? 15 Effective Approaches to Transform Learning in 2024! 🚀

September 17, 2024
Instructional Coaching , Instructional Strategies

Imagine walking into a classroom where students are buzzing with excitement, collaborating on projects, and eagerly asking questions. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, it’s entirely possible with the right teaching methodologies! In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of teaching strategies, exploring 15 effective methodologies that can elevate your classroom experience in 2024.

Did you know that students who engage in active learning are up to 1.5 times more likely to retain information compared to those who learn passively? This intriguing statistic highlights the power of effective teaching methods! As we explore various methodologies, we’ll also uncover how to choose the right ones for your unique classroom environment. So, are you ready to transform your teaching approach and inspire your students? Let’s jump in!

Key Takeaways

Diverse Methodologies Matter: Using a variety of teaching methodologies caters to different learning styles and keeps students engaged.
Student-Centered Learning: Approaches like Project-Based Learning and Inquiry-Based Learning foster critical thinking and collaboration.
Real-World Applications: Many methodologies emphasize practical skills, preparing students for future challenges.
Implementation is Key: Start small, seek feedback, and be willing to adapt your approach for maximum impact.

If you’re looking to enhance your teaching resources, check out these categories:

👉 Shop Teaching Resources on Amazon: Amazon Teaching Resources
Explore SMART Technologies: SMART Official Website
Discover Interactive Learning Tools: Quizlet Official Website

Get ready to transform your classroom into a vibrant learning hub! 🌟

Quick tips and facts, the evolution of teaching methodologies, what exactly are teaching methodologies, why teaching methodologies matter: the impact on learning, engaging students: the fun factor in learning, real learning outcomes: what you can expect, list of 15 effective teaching methodologies to explore, how to choose the right teaching methodology for your classroom, tips for implementing teaching methodologies effectively, challenges in teaching methodologies: what to watch out for, future trends in teaching methodologies: what’s next, recommended links, frequently asked questions (faqs), reference links.

No one-size-fits-all: The best teaching methodology depends on your students, subject, and teaching style!
Mix it up! Variety keeps students engaged. Don’t be afraid to combine different methodologies.
Student feedback is key: Ask your students what works for them! They might surprise you with their insights.
Reflect and adjust: Teaching is an ongoing process. Regularly reflect on what’s working and what’s not.

Want to shake things up in your classroom? Discover the 10 Most Effective Teaching Methods for 2024! 🤯 Discover the 10 Most Effective Teaching Methods for 2024! ➡️

Remember the days of chalkboards, rote learning, and silent classrooms? 🕰️ Thankfully, the way we teach has drastically evolved! From traditional teacher-centered approaches to modern student-centered methodologies, the journey of teaching is fascinating.

From Rote to Reasoning: A Historical Perspective

Early teaching heavily relied on rote memorization and strict discipline. The focus was on delivering information, often through lectures, with little room for student interaction or critical thinking.

However, as our understanding of learning and cognition advanced, so did our teaching methods. We began to recognize the importance of:

Active Learning: Engaging students as active participants in their learning.
Individualized Instruction: Catering to diverse learning styles and needs.
Real-World Application: Connecting learning to practical situations.

The Rise of Technology in Education

Technology has revolutionized the educational landscape, opening up new possibilities for teaching and learning. We’ve moved beyond textbooks and worksheets to embrace:

Interactive Whiteboards: SMART Technologies and Promethean are leading providers.
Educational Software and Apps: Think Khan Academy for personalized learning and Quizlet for interactive review.
Online Learning Platforms: Coursera and edX offer a wealth of courses for learners of all ages.

These advancements have empowered educators to create more engaging and effective learning experiences.

In the simplest terms, teaching methodologies are the blueprints for how we deliver knowledge and skills to our students. They encompass the strategies, techniques, and activities we use to create a conducive learning environment.

Teaching Methodologies vs. Teaching Strategies: What’s the Difference?

While often used interchangeably, there’s a subtle distinction:

Teaching Methodologies: Broader approaches or frameworks that guide the overall teaching process. Examples: Inquiry-Based Learning, Project-Based Learning, Differentiated Instruction.
Teaching Strategies: Specific techniques or activities used within a chosen methodology. Examples: Think-Pair-Share, Jigsaw, Role-Playing.

Think of methodologies as the overarching plan and strategies as the tools you use to execute that plan. 🔨

The right teaching methodology can make all the difference in the world! Here’s why:

Increased Student Engagement: Engaging methodologies, like game-based learning or project-based learning, capture students’ attention and make learning fun! 😄
Improved Knowledge Retention: When students are actively involved in the learning process, they’re more likely to remember what they’ve learned. 🧠
Development of Critical Thinking Skills: Methodologies that encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration prepare students for success in the 21st century.
Catering to Diverse Learners: By using a variety of methodologies, we can create inclusive classrooms that meet the needs of all learners.

Gone are the days of passive learning! Modern teaching methodologies prioritize student engagement, making learning an active and enjoyable experience.

Gamification: Making Learning Fun and Effective

Think back to your favorite game. What made it so engaging? Now, imagine harnessing that same power of play in the classroom! Gamification in education involves incorporating game-like elements, such as:

Points and Rewards: Motivate students with points, badges, or virtual rewards for their progress.
Competition and Collaboration: Foster healthy competition through leaderboards or encourage teamwork through collaborative games.
Storytelling and Narrative: Engage students with immersive storylines and characters that make learning more relatable.

Hands-On Activities: Learning by Doing

Remember that baking soda volcano experiment from elementary school? 🌋 Hands-on activities create memorable learning experiences that stick with students long after the lesson is over. Consider incorporating:

Experiments and Demonstrations: Bring science to life with exciting experiments or captivating demonstrations.
Art and Craft Projects: Encourage creativity and self-expression through art projects that reinforce learning.
Field Trips and Excursions: Provide real-world context and hands-on experiences through field trips to museums, historical sites, or local businesses.

For more creative lesson planning ideas, explore our resources!

Effective teaching methodologies go beyond simply covering the curriculum; they focus on achieving meaningful learning outcomes.

Beyond Grades: Measuring Real Progress

While grades are one measure of student progress, they don’t tell the whole story. Look for these indicators of real learning:

Deeper Understanding of Concepts: Students can explain concepts in their own words, make connections between different ideas, and apply their knowledge in new situations.
Improved Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills: Students can analyze information, evaluate different perspectives, and develop creative solutions to challenges.
Increased Collaboration and Communication Skills: Students can effectively work in teams, communicate their ideas clearly, and respectfully listen to others.
Enhanced Creativity and Innovation: Students are not afraid to think outside the box, experiment with new ideas, and come up with innovative solutions.

Long-Term Benefits: Preparing Students for the Future

The skills and knowledge students gain through effective teaching methodologies extend far beyond the classroom. They’ll be better equipped to:

Succeed in Higher Education: Strong critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills are essential for success in college and beyond.
Thrive in the Workforce: The ability to solve problems, think creatively, and work effectively with others are highly valued skills in today’s job market.
Become Lifelong Learners: By fostering a love of learning and a growth mindset, effective teaching methodologies prepare students to embrace continuous learning throughout their lives.

Ready to breathe new life into your teaching? Here are 15 effective teaching methodologies to inspire you:

Inquiry-Based Learning: Spark curiosity and critical thinking by posing thought-provoking questions and guiding students to discover answers through exploration and investigation.
Project-Based Learning: Engage students in real-world projects that require them to apply their knowledge and skills to solve problems and create tangible outcomes.
Game-Based Learning: Harness the power of play to make learning fun and engaging while reinforcing concepts and developing essential skills.
Cooperative Learning: Foster teamwork, communication, and social skills by having students work together in small groups to achieve common goals.
Differentiated Instruction: Cater to the diverse learning needs of your students by providing a variety of learning experiences and adjusting instruction based on individual progress.
Technology-Integrated Learning: Enhance your teaching with technology tools and resources that engage students, provide personalized learning experiences, and expand access to information.
Flipped Classroom: Flip the traditional classroom model by having students learn content at home through videos or readings and then using class time for interactive activities and discussions.
Personalized Learning: Tailor learning experiences to individual student needs, interests, and learning styles, allowing students to progress at their own pace.
Mastery Learning: Ensure students master key concepts before moving on by providing ample practice, feedback, and opportunities for remediation.
Problem-Based Learning: Present students with real-world problems that challenge them to think critically, gather information, and develop solutions.
Case-Based Learning: Engage students in analyzing real-life scenarios or case studies to develop critical thinking and decision-making skills.
Kinesthetic Learning: Get students moving and learning through hands-on activities, experiments, and movement-based exercises.
Blended Learning: Combine online and face-to-face learning experiences to create a dynamic and flexible learning environment.
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): Help students develop essential social and emotional skills, such as self-awareness, self-regulation, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
Experiential Learning: Provide students with opportunities to learn through real-world experiences, such as internships, service learning projects, or simulations.

With so many effective teaching methodologies available, how do you choose the right ones for your classroom? Here are some key factors to consider:

Your Students: What are their learning styles, interests, strengths, and areas for growth?
Your Subject Matter: What methodologies lend themselves well to the content you’re teaching?
Your Teaching Style: What methodologies align with your strengths and comfort level as an educator?
Your Classroom Resources: Do you have the necessary technology, materials, and space to implement certain methodologies effectively?

Successfully implementing new teaching methodologies requires careful planning, flexibility, and a willingness to adapt. Here are some tips to guide you:

Start Small: Don’t try to overhaul your entire teaching approach overnight. Begin by incorporating one or two new methodologies or strategies at a time.
Collaborate with Colleagues: Share ideas, resources, and best practices with fellow teachers. Observe each other’s classrooms and provide constructive feedback.
Provide Clear Expectations: Clearly communicate your expectations for student participation, behavior, and assessment when introducing new methodologies.
Seek Professional Development: Attend workshops, conferences, or online courses to deepen your understanding of different teaching methodologies and gain practical strategies for implementation.

For guidance on instructional coaching and instructional strategies , explore our dedicated resources!

While effective teaching methodologies can transform your classroom, it’s important to be aware of potential challenges and how to address them:

Resistance to Change: Some students may be resistant to new teaching methods, especially if they’re accustomed to traditional approaches. Be patient, provide clear explanations, and gradually introduce new methodologies.
Classroom Management: Some methodologies, such as project-based learning or cooperative learning, may require adjustments to your classroom management strategies to ensure a productive and respectful learning environment.
Time Constraints: Implementing certain methodologies, such as personalized learning or project-based learning, may require more time for planning, preparation, and assessment.
Access to Resources: Not all schools have equal access to technology, materials, or professional development opportunities. Be resourceful, collaborate with colleagues, and advocate for the resources you need.

The field of education is constantly evolving, and new teaching methodologies are continually emerging. Here are some future trends to watch:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Education: AI-powered tools can personalize learning experiences, provide real-time feedback, and automate administrative tasks, freeing up teachers to focus on individual student needs.
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) in Education: VR and AR technologies can create immersive learning experiences, transport students to different times and places, and make abstract concepts more concrete.
Personalized Learning at Scale: Advances in technology and data analytics are making it easier to personalize learning experiences for all students, regardless of their background or learning style.
Emphasis on Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): As we recognize the importance of social-emotional skills for success in school, work, and life, SEL will continue to be integrated into all aspects of education.

For practical tips and strategies on classroom management and differentiated instruction , explore our comprehensive guides.

Macbook Pro on table near white mug and PRODUCT RED iPhone

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, understanding and implementing effective teaching methodologies is essential for fostering an engaging and productive learning environment. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or just starting, the right methodologies can transform your classroom experience.

Enhanced Engagement: Many methodologies, like project-based and game-based learning, actively involve students, making lessons more enjoyable.
Diverse Learning Options: With a variety of methodologies to choose from, you can cater to different learning styles and needs, ensuring that every student has a chance to thrive.
Real-World Application: Many approaches emphasize practical skills and critical thinking, preparing students for future challenges.
Implementation Challenges: Some methodologies may require extensive planning, resources, or training, which can be daunting for busy educators.
Resistance to Change: Students accustomed to traditional methods might initially resist new approaches, requiring patience and persistence.

Overall, we confidently recommend exploring a mix of these methodologies to find what resonates best with you and your students. The journey of teaching is an exciting one, and the right strategies can lead to remarkable outcomes. So, are you ready to dive in and transform your classroom? 🌟

Books on Teaching Methodologies: Amazon Books
SMART Technologies: SMART Official Website
Khan Academy: Khan Academy Official Website
Quizlet: Quizlet Official Website
Coursera: Coursera Official Website
edX: edX Official Website

What is your teaching methodology answer?

Your teaching methodology should reflect your educational philosophy, the needs of your students, and the subject matter you are teaching. For example, if you believe in fostering critical thinking and collaboration, you might choose a student-centered approach, such as project-based learning or inquiry-based learning. It’s essential to articulate your methodology clearly, as this helps students understand what to expect and how they can engage in the learning process.

What is an example of a teaching methodology?

An example of a teaching methodology is Project-Based Learning (PBL) . In PBL, students engage in a project that requires them to investigate a complex question or problem over an extended period. For instance, students might work on a project to design a sustainable community, integrating concepts from science, math, and social studies. This methodology encourages collaboration, critical thinking, and real-world application.

Which teaching methodology is best?

There is no definitive “best” teaching methodology, as it largely depends on the context, subject, and individual student needs. However, methodologies like Differentiated Instruction and Inquiry-Based Learning are highly regarded for their ability to cater to diverse learners and promote deeper understanding. The key is to remain flexible and willing to adapt your approach based on student feedback and learning outcomes.

Which best describes an example of teaching methodology?

A teaching methodology is best described as a structured approach to delivering education that encompasses various techniques and strategies. For example, Cooperative Learning is a methodology where students work together in small groups to complete tasks. This methodology emphasizes peer-to-peer interaction, fostering collaboration and communication skills, and is effective in promoting a sense of community within the classroom.

How can I implement a new teaching methodology?

To implement a new teaching methodology, start by researching and selecting one that aligns with your teaching goals and your students’ needs. Begin with small steps: integrate specific strategies into your lessons, seek feedback from students, and reflect on what works. Collaborate with colleagues to share ideas and resources, and consider professional development opportunities to deepen your understanding of the chosen methodology.

How do teaching methodologies impact student learning?

Teaching methodologies significantly impact student learning by shaping how content is delivered and how students engage with the material. Effective methodologies promote active learning, critical thinking, and collaboration, leading to improved retention and understanding. By using diverse approaches, educators can cater to different learning styles, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed.

Read more about “Discover the 10 Most Effective Teaching Methods for 2024! 🚀”

University at Buffalo: Teaching Methods
Khan Academy
SMART Technologies

These resources will provide you with further insights and practical tools to enhance your teaching methodologies and create a dynamic learning environment for your students. Happy teaching! 🎉

Marti is a seasoned educator and strategist with a passion for fostering inclusive learning environments and empowering students through tailored educational experiences. With her roots as a university tutor—a position she landed during her undergraduate years—Marti has always been driven by the joy of facilitating others' learning journeys.

Holding a Bachelor's degree in Communication alongside a degree in Social Work, she has mastered the art of empathetic communication, enabling her to connect with students on a profound level. Marti’s unique educational background allows her to incorporate holistic approaches into her teaching, addressing not just the academic, but also the emotional and social needs of her students.

Throughout her career, Marti has developed and implemented innovative teaching strategies that cater to diverse learning styles, believing firmly that education should be accessible and engaging for all. Her work on the Teacher Strategies site encapsulates her extensive experience and dedication to education, offering readers insights into effective teaching methods, classroom management techniques, and strategies for fostering inclusive and supportive learning environments.

As an advocate for lifelong learning, Marti continuously seeks to expand her knowledge and skills, ensuring her teaching methods are both evidence-based and cutting edge. Whether through her blog articles on Teacher Strategies or her direct engagement with students, Marti remains committed to enhancing educational outcomes and inspiring the next generation of learners and educators alike.

What is the abstraction approach in teaching 12 powerful insights to transform your classroom 📚✨.

October 24, 2024

What is Analysis of Teaching and Learning? 10 Essential Insights to Transform Your Classroom! 📚

October 17, 2024

Discover the 7 Essential Pedagogical Approaches in Teaching That Transform Learning! 🚀

October 16, 2024

Trending now

Teaching Methods and Strategies: The Complete Guide

You’ve completed your coursework. Student teaching has ended. You’ve donned the cap and gown, crossed the stage, smiled with your diploma and went home to fill out application after application.

Suddenly you are standing in what will be your classroom for the next year and after the excitement of decorating it wears off and you begin lesson planning, you start to notice all of your lessons are executed the same way, just with different material. But that is what you know and what you’ve been taught, so you go with it.

After a while, your students are bored, and so are you. There must be something wrong because this isn’t what you envisioned teaching to be like. There is.

Figuring out the best ways you can deliver information to students can sometimes be even harder than what students go through in discovering how they learn best. The reason is because every single teacher needs a variety of different teaching methods in their theoretical teaching bag to pull from depending on the lesson, the students, and things as seemingly minute as the time the class is and the subject.

Using these different teaching methods, which are rooted in theory of different teaching styles, will not only help teachers reach their full potential, but more importantly engage, motivate and reach the students in their classes, whether in person or online.

Teaching Methods

Teaching methods, or methodology, is a narrower topic because it’s founded in theories and educational psychology. If you have a degree in teaching, you most likely have heard of names like Skinner, Vygotsky , Gardner, Piaget , and Bloom . If their names don’t ring a bell, you should definitely recognize their theories that have become teaching methods. The following are the most common teaching theories.

Behaviorism

Behaviorism is the theory that every learner is essentially a “clean slate” to start off and shaped by emotions. People react to stimuli, reactions as well as positive and negative reinforcement, the site states.

Learning Theories names the most popular theorists who ascribed to this theory were Ivan Pavlov, who many people may know with his experiments with dogs. He performed an experiment with dogs that when he rang a bell, the dogs responded to the stimuli; then he applied the idea to humans.

Other popular educational theorists who were part of behaviorism was B.F. Skinner and Albert Bandura .

Social Cognitive Theory

Social Cognitive Theory is typically spoken about at the early childhood level because it has to do with critical thinking with the biggest concept being the idea of play, according to Edwin Peel writing for Encyclopedia Britannica . Though Bandura and Lev Vygotsky also contributed to cognitive theory, according to Dr. Norman Herr with California State University , the most popular and first theorist of cognitivism is Piaget.

There are four stages to Piaget’s Theory of Cognitive Development that he created in 1918. Each stage correlates with a child’s development from infancy to their teenage years.

The first stage is called the Sensorimotor Stage which occurs from birth to 18 months. The reason this is considered cognitive development is because the brain is literally growing through exploration, like squeaking horns, discovering themselves in mirrors or spinning things that click on their floor mats or walkers; creating habits like sleeping with a certain blanket; having reflexes like rubbing their eyes when tired or thumb sucking; and beginning to decipher vocal tones.

The second stage, or the Preoperational Stage, occurs from ages 2 to 7 when toddlers begin to understand and correlate symbols around them, ask a lot of questions, and start forming sentences and conversations, but they haven’t developed perspective yet so empathy does not quite exist yet, the website states. This is the stage when children tend to blurt out honest statements, usually embarrassing their parents, because they don’t understand censoring themselves either.

From ages 7 to 11, children are beginning to problem solve, can have conversations about things they are interested in, are more aware of logic and develop empathy during the Concrete Operational Stage.

The final stage, called the Formal Operational Stage, though by definition ends at age 16, can continue beyond. It involves deeper thinking and abstract thoughts as well as questioning not only what things are but why the way they are is popular, the site states. Many times people entering new stages of their lives like high school, college, or even marriage go through elements of Piaget’s theory, which is why the strategies that come from this method are applicable across all levels of education.

The Multiple Intelligences Theory

The Multiple Intelligences Theory states that people don’t need to be smart in every single discipline to be considered intelligent on paper tests, but that people excel in various disciplines, making them exceptional.

Created in 1983, the former principal in the Scranton School District in Scranton, PA, created eight different intelligences, though since then two others have been debated of whether to be added but have not yet officially, according to the site.

The original eight are musical, spatial, linguistic, mathematical, kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal and naturalistic and most people have a predominant intelligence followed by others. For those who are musically-inclined either via instruments, vocals, has perfect pitch, can read sheet music or can easily create music has Musical Intelligence.

Being able to see something and rearrange it or imagine it differently is Spatial Intelligence, while being talented with language, writing or avid readers have Linguistic Intelligence. Kinesthetic Intelligence refers to understanding how the body works either anatomically or athletically and Naturalistic Intelligence is having an understanding of nature and elements of the ecosystem.

The final intelligences have to do with personal interactions. Intrapersonal Intelligence is a matter of knowing oneself, one’s limits, and their inner selves while Interpersonal Intelligence is knowing how to handle a variety of other people without conflict or knowing how to resolve it, the site states. There is still an elementary school in Scranton, PA named after their once-principal.

Constructivism

Constructivism is another theory created by Piaget which is used as a foundation for many other educational theories and strategies because constructivism is focused on how people learn. Piaget states in this theory that people learn from their experiences. They learn best through active learning , connect it to their prior knowledge and then digest this information their own way. This theory has created the ideas of student-centered learning in education versus teacher-centered learning.

Universal Design for Learning

The final method is the Universal Design for Learning which has redefined the educational community since its inception in the mid-1980s by David H. Rose. This theory focuses on how teachers need to design their curriculum for their students. This theory really gained traction in the United States in 2004 when it was presented at an international conference and he explained that this theory is based on neuroscience and how the brain processes information, perform tasks and get excited about education.

The theory, known as UDL, advocates for presenting information in multiple ways to enable a variety of learners to understand the information; presenting multiple assessments for students to show what they have learned; and learn and utilize a student’s own interests to motivate them to learn, the site states. This theory also discussed incorporating technology in the classroom and ways to educate students in the digital age.

Teaching Styles

From each of the educational theories, teachers extract and develop a plethora of different teaching styles, or strategies. Instructors must have a large and varied arsenal of strategies to use weekly and even daily in order to build rapport, keep students engaged and even keep instructors from getting bored with their own material. These can be applicable to all teaching levels, but adaptations must be made based on the student’s age and level of development.

Differentiated instruction is one of the most popular teaching strategies, which means that teachers adjust the curriculum for a lesson, unit or even entire term in a way that engages all learners in various ways, according to Chapter 2 of the book Instructional Process and Concepts in Theory and Practice by Celal Akdeniz . This means changing one’s teaching styles constantly to fit not only the material but more importantly, the students based on their learning styles.

Learning styles are the ways in which students learn best. The most popular types are visual, audio, kinesthetic and read/write , though others include global as another type of learner, according to Akdeniz . For some, they may seem self-explanatory. Visual learners learn best by watching the instruction or a demonstration; audio learners need to hear a lesson; kinesthetic learners learn by doing, or are hands-on learners; read/write learners to best by reading textbooks and writing notes; and global learners need material to be applied to their real lives, according to The Library of Congress .

There are many activities available to instructors that enable their students to find out what kind of learner they are. Typically students have a main style with a close runner-up, which enables them to learn best a certain way but they can also learn material in an additional way.

When an instructor knows their students and what types of learners are in their classroom, instructors are able to then differentiate their instruction and assignments to those learning types, according to Akdeniz and The Library of Congress. Learn more about different learning styles.

When teaching new material to any type of learner, is it important to utilize a strategy called scaffolding . Scaffolding is based on a student’s prior knowledge and building a lesson, unit or course from the most foundational pieces and with each step make the information more complicated, according to an article by Jerry Webster .

To scaffold well, a teacher must take a personal interest in their students to learn not only what their prior knowledge is but their strengths as well. This will enable an instructor to base new information around their strengths and use positive reinforcement when mistakes are made with the new material.

There is an unfortunate concept in teaching called “teach to the middle” where instructors target their lessons to the average ability of the students in their classroom, leaving slower students frustrated and confused, and above average students frustrated and bored. This often results in the lower- and higher-level students scoring poorly and a teacher with no idea why.

The remedy for this is a strategy called blended learning where differentiated instruction is occurring simultaneously in the classroom to target all learners, according to author and educator Juliana Finegan . In order to be successful at blended learning, teachers once again need to know their students, how they learn and their strengths and weaknesses, according to Finegan.

Blended learning can include combining several learning styles into one lesson like lecturing from a PowerPoint – not reading the information on the slides — that includes cartoons and music associations while the students have the print-outs. The lecture can include real-life examples and stories of what the instructor encountered and what the students may encounter. That example incorporates four learning styles and misses kinesthetic, but the activity afterwards can be solely kinesthetic.

A huge component of blended learning is technology. Technology enables students to set their own pace and access the resources they want and need based on their level of understanding, according to The Library of Congress . It can be used three different ways in education which include face-to-face, synchronously or asynchronously . Technology used with the student in the classroom where the teacher can answer questions while being in the student’s physical presence is known as face-to-face.

Synchronous learning is when students are learning information online and have a teacher live with them online at the same time, but through a live chat or video conferencing program, like Skype, or Zoom, according to The Library of Congress.

Finally, asynchronous learning is when students take a course or element of a course online, like a test or assignment, as it fits into their own schedule, but a teacher is not online with them at the time they are completing or submitting the work. Teachers are still accessible through asynchronous learning but typically via email or a scheduled chat meeting, states the Library of Congress.

The final strategy to be discussed actually incorporates a few teaching strategies, so it’s almost like blended teaching. It starts with a concept that has numerous labels such as student-centered learning, learner-centered pedagogy, and teacher-as-tutor but all mean that an instructor revolves lessons around the students and ensures that students take a participatory role in the learning process, known as active learning, according to the Learning Portal .

In this model, a teacher is just a facilitator, meaning that they have created the lesson as well as the structure for learning, but the students themselves become the teachers or create their own knowledge, the Learning Portal says. As this is occurring, the instructor is circulating the room working as a one-on-one resource, tutor or guide, according to author Sara Sanchez Alonso from Yale’s Center for Teaching and Learning. For this to work well and instructors be successful one-on-one and planning these lessons, it’s essential that they have taken the time to know their students’ history and prior knowledge, otherwise it can end up to be an exercise in futility, Alonso said.

Some activities teachers can use are by putting students in groups and assigning each student a role within the group, creating reading buddies or literature circles, making games out of the material with individual white boards, create different stations within the classroom for different skill levels or interest in a lesson or find ways to get students to get up out of their seats and moving, offers Fortheteachers.org .

There are so many different methodologies and strategies that go into becoming an effective instructor. A consistent theme throughout all of these is for a teacher to take the time to know their students because they care, not because they have to. When an instructor knows the stories behind the students, they are able to design lessons that are more fun, more meaningful, and more effective because they were designed with the students’ best interests in mind.

There are plenty of pre-made lessons, activities and tests available online and from textbook publishers that any teacher could use. But you need to decide if you want to be the original teacher who makes a significant impact on your students, or a pre-made teacher a student needs to get through.

Read Also: – Blended Learning Guide – Collaborative Learning Guide – Flipped Classroom Guide – Game Based Learning Guide – Gamification in Education Guide – Holistic Education Guide – Maker Education Guide – Personalized Learning Guide – Place-Based Education Guide – Project-Based Learning Guide – Scaffolding in Education Guide – Social-Emotional Learning Guide