| I was in a classroom this past week and the teacher was
using the “I Do, We Do, You Do” instructional approach. The teacher began by introducing the new
material (I Do) and gradually shifted responsibility to the students while
modelling, prompting, questioning and cueing them (We Do) until they were
independently completing a task (You Do). It reminded me of a course I took
several years ago based on Jim Knight’s “I-We-You” model of instructional
coaching.
As the Calgary City Teacher’s Convention approaches another
of Jim Knight’s quotes resonated with me.
“When teachers stop
learning, so do students.”
Haysboro School is
blessed with dedicated professionals who take their own learning as seriously
as the learning of their students. During our Friday Professional Learning Communities
(PLCs) and on our Professional Learning days teachers are analyzing student
work samples, noticing trends in their
students’ progress and achievement, reflecting on their instructional practices
and planning forward to best meet the needs of their students. The time we
spend together as a staff on our professional learning days is invaluable in
terms us being able to come together around current research and best
practices. Our professional learning
days often start with us reflecting on the impact of our evolving teaching
practices on student learning. The
conversation that ensues as teachers share some of the highlights from their
classrooms is a powerful reminder of the importance of being a “student of our
own teaching practice” and a life-long learner.
I am excited to hear about the various sessions that
teachers are attending this Thursday and Friday – what they have learned, what
they are excited to try in their classrooms, any “A-Ha” moments that they had etc.
as we collectively strive to create the
best possible learning environment for your children.
Sincerely,
Angela McPhee |
