Standard+IV+Commentary

**Standard IV:** **Plans, designs, and differentiates instruction for all students** (based on Research for Better Teaching ™ model areas of performance **)** **: A JCDS teacher possesses deep knowledge of curriculum design and is committed to using that knowledge to develop appropriate learning opportunities and resources for students that match children’s learning styles and inspires students to become life long learners.**
 * Elements || Enacting/Applying || Commentary ||
 * 1. Plans curriculum ||


 * Teacher uses assessment to drive instruction.
 * Teacher uses assessment to drive instruction.

Teacher plans curriculum with clear goals, learning experiences and assessment to ensure the growth of each student. || 2. Motivates students Teacher builds personal relationships with students through identifies appropriate expectations.
 * Has the goals of the “unit of study” clearly defined including concepts and skills.
 * Each lesson relates back to the goals or one of the concepts or skills;
 * Lessons follow a thoughtful sequence that can be articulated
 * The lessons include ongoing assessment allowing the teacher to adjust instruction accordingly for the class or an individual student.
 * Assessments are differentiated to allow for students to demonstrate their understanding of content, concepts and skills.

Teacher creates a class climate to ensure the engagement and success of each student 3. Implements instructional strategies Teacher consistently implements instructional strategies through a clear understanding of learning principles, models of teaching and explicit instruction to students and clarity in regard to goals and learning outcomes. 4. Classroom management Teacher manages the classroom with clearly defined and taught routines, expectations and “logical consequences”.
 * The teacher knows each student’s learning profile, social needs, and creates a safe and motivation environment for the students.
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Sets realistic goals for each student at an instructional level
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">The teacher scaffolds the lesson so most students can be successful working independently, with a partner, or in a group
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">The teacher is able to create experiences for the students that motivate them to learn through independent projects, real life applications, presentations, and student-interest related activities
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Students demonstrate engagement through questions they raise and discussions in which they demonstrate active participation.
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">The teacher considers many forms of instruction in order for most students to access the learning. There are choices for the students in regard to note-taking and material aids (eg. unifix cubes vs Deines blocks)
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Any instructional tool eg graphic organizer, is introduced and taught to the children
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">The goals are visual, the materials are accessible, the instruction is modeled, the students have the opportunity to practice the skill before applying the skill independently.
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Students are able to name learning goals and learning outcomes

Teacher is mindful of the pace of the day and considers the learning environment that is needed to create the momentum that is developmentally appropriate for students<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"> is a consistent factor in planning for instruction and the physical space.
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Clear expectations are posted in the room and referenced daily.
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Language is consistent
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">The teacher is mindful of the developmental needs of the students as he or she plans the lessons of the day. Appropriate breaks and switches from whole class to small groups are planned. Group time vs independent times are scheduled throughout the day.
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">The classroom supports the learning goals and the instruction in the classroom.