5 step lesson format

MAP prepping for the year has begun and the 5 step lesson format works tremendously well! At the beginning of the year, my students take a Math and Communication ARTS test to get a baseline score. Next, the student data is studied and areas of improvement are highlighted. Our Communication ARTS class is on a 7 day cycle, day 7 is MAP prep, and the the day 7 skill was verb usage. The 5 step lesson format was used to teach the verb lesson. The students were engaged throughout the entire lesson and of course, had fun!

5 step lesson format:

1. Ask students a question about the topic

2. Give students the answer to the question and use a gesture

3. Expand on the answer by giving examples

4. Play Yes-No Way and QT (quick test) to check for comprehension

5. Critical thinking-Genius Ladder, compare/contrast, letter writing

For more information on the 5 step lesson format visit http://www.wholebrainteaching.com/ and download the Model Classroom ebook.

Laura Caisse
2011-2012 WBT Intern

Third Week is underway!

The third week of school is underway and mid-term is just one week away! Already the school year is flying by quickly! WBT is in full swing and the students finally won on the scoreboard. They were playing for "talking time," which in fifth grade is very important even if only for a minute! The students get the scoreboard and I am sure as the year goes on, they will have their ideas about what they want to play for each day.

The Genius Ladder has been introduced and I am continuing to model, model, and model for the students. As each day goes by, the students are getting the hang of the process and will be ready to practice writing Genius Ladders with their teams soon.

I am excited for the new school year and all the wonderful things that WBT will bring to my class and to the other teachers in my building. WBT excitement is everywhere. The one area that my class will be working on is getting my students to speak up and use BIG gestures!!!

Laura Caisse
WBT Intern, 2011-2012