After reviewing additional research studies on teacher performance and the mechanisms of student learning, Barak Rosenshine and Robert Stevens in 1986 developed a six-function teaching model to describe the necessary sequence of instructional steps that are involved in having a student learn new skills.
The principles apply equally well to classroom instruction and tutoring, and they are part of a growing movement toward direct instruction techniques, which studies consistently show to be superior to “experiential” instruction. Rosenshine and Stevens recommend the following approach:
1. Daily Review: Review prerequisite skills.
2. Presentation: Start with a brief statement of goals; introduce new material rapidly, but in small steps; demonstrate, illustrate, and provide concrete examples.
3. Guided Practice: Guide student practice initially; obtain response and check for understanding; achieve a high level of active practice.
4. Correctives and Feedback: Elicit specific responses; monitor and give specific advice.
5. Independent Practice (Seatwork): Practice until responses are firm, quick, and automatic.
6. Weekly and Monthly Reviews: Systematic review of previously learned material.
— George Clowes
For more information …
“What Characterizes an Effective Teacher? An exclusive interview with Barak Rosenshine,” by George Clowes, School Reform News, May 2002, http://www.heartland.org/Article.cfm?artId=9231
“Study: Student-Centered Learning Ineffective,” by George Clowes, School Reform News, July 2001, http://www.heartland.org/Article.cfm?artId=9903
George Clowes is former Heartland senior fellow addressing education policy. He served as founding managing editor of School Reform News between November 1996 and January 2005.
