The starting point of instruction for all students in Alberta is the programs of study. The intentional use of instructional strategies benefits students and provides teachers with options for programming. Effective strategy instruction includes scaffolding information to increase understanding. The strategies in this section are based on a tiered model of support (consisting of universal, targeted, and individualized supports) which helps make learning outcomes accessible to learners.
The following provides a guideline for effective strategy instruction:
- ① Explicit instruction: Teach the specific steps of a strategy and also discuss how, when, where, and why to use the strategy.
- Modeling: Demonstrate, while thinking aloud, how the strategy is used.
- Guided practice: Provide ample opportunities for students to practice the strategy, making sure to offer guidance and corrective feedback.
- Independent practice: Allow students to use the strategy independently and continue to monitor performance and provide corrective feedback.
- Self-regulation strategies: Encourage students to be self-directed in their learning by teaching them to use strategies such as self-monitoring and goal-setting.
- Maintenance and generalization: Incorporate activities that encourage students to continue to use the strategy and to use it in other settings.
① The IRIS Center for Training Enhancements. (2013). Study Skills Strategies (Part 1): Foundations for Effectively Teaching Study Skills. Retrieved on January 29, 2016 from http://iris.peabody.vanderbilt.edu/module/ss1/
