BLT Manual

MONITORING CORE INSTRUCTION: LEARNING WALKTHROUGHS

When teams talk about “core instruction,” they are referring to the instruction provided by classroom teachers for every student. Core instruction is the universal instruction that students receive in every classroom. Effective core instruction is preventative, proactive, and meets the needs of at least 80% of the students relating to mastery of critical skills in each content area. Addressing core instruction is the most efficient way to improve student achievement.

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Without high-quality core instruction, significant numbers of students will require interventions that are costly and time consuming. It is impossible to provide intervention for more than 20% of students. When core instruction is insufficient, too few students have access to a basic foundation of skills necessary for success after high school. The instructional priorities and classroom behavior essentials that are outlined in the CDS MTSS framework are the most effective and efficient ways to improve core instruction. When teachers employ these high-yielding practices, they are better equipped to help their students reach their full potential, foster a positive and inclusive classroom culture, and ultimately contribute to improved educational outcomes for all learners.

Establish a focus of Inquiry

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Prepare for Learning Walkthroughs

Progress Monitor

Determine Follow Up Steps

Conduct Learning Walkthroughs

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Gather & Analyze data

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Learning Walkthroughs are a systematic and coordinated method of gathering data to inform school wide decision making around core instruction. Learning Walkthroughs promote organizational learning and the monitoring of school-wide progress in the use of the instructional priorities and classroom behavior essentials. It is important to note that Learning Walkthroughs are NOT intended to serve as a means of evaluating individual teachers. Rather, Learning Walkthroughs offer educators a systematic way to gather evidence to answer the question: To what extent are we seeing what we expect to see in our classrooms, given where we are focusing our energy and resources? This information can help shape improvement efforts on a school-wide level.