The Fundamental 5

The Formula for Quality Instruction

Fundamental 5 Elements is a simple that a teacher can implement to improve the quality of
classroom instruction.

A. Frame the Lesson

a. Two parts of a lesson frame
i. State the learning objective
ii. State how the student will demonstrate what was the learned during the
lesson
b. Example: We will identify the components of an effective lesson frame. I will
create and share a lesson frame with my table group.
B. Working in Power Zone
a. The Power Zone is simply teaching or monitoring in close proximity to one
student, small group of students or entire classroom
b. The Power Zone changes the classroom dynamic
i. On task behaviors increase
ii. Discipline issues decrease
iii. Student retention of content increases
iv. Student achievement increase
C. Frequent, Small Groups, Purposeful Talk about the Learning
a. Frequency after every 10 to 15 minutes of teacher talk
b. Can last from 30 seconds to 3 minutes
c. Group Size of 2-4 students
d. Seed questions pre-planned to guide student conversations
D. Recognize and Reinforce
a. Make a big deal of small things
i. Samples
1. A low performing student scores a passing grade on a test
2. A student who never turns in homework, turns in an assignment

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 b. Start reinforcing that work it takes to be successful
c. Look for the positive, good things going on and be specific
E. Write Critically
a. Writing for the purpose of organizing, clarify, defending, refuting, analyzing,
dissecting, connecting, and/or expanding on ideas or concepts
b. Give students time to write
c. Samples
i. Simple list
ii. Short comparison paragraph
iii. Mind map
iv. Purposeful note talking
v. Written exit ticket