K–12 Intervention

Transform Learning with Direct Instruction

An instructional methodology proven to uplift learners from every background

Rooted in Science, Proven by Research

For more than 60 years, our Direct Instruction (DI) programs have transformed students from all backgrounds into confident and highly skilled learners. Time-tested and research-validated, DI is proven to meet everyone where they are and accelerate them one powerful step at a time. 

Direct Instruction operates with the understanding that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts—and when we work together, every student can make significant progress toward lifelong success.

"DI addresses deficits so kids can develop the skills to be successful. You can’t ask for more than that."

– Sue Gosnell, Riverton Middle School

How It Works

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Prescribed Instruction , Link will open in a new window

During Direct Instruction, students are grouped according to learning needs. Surrounded by a chorus of their peers, they respond to teacher prompts in unison at an average rate of 10–12 responses per minute.

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Mastery-Based Learning , Link will open in a new window

To build and reinforce mastery, new material is introduced gradually, and review is ongoing. What’s learned today is practiced tomorrow and each day thereafter, serving as a launchpad for growth. 

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Results for Everyone , Link will open in a new window

Through consistency comes results for everyone—multilingual learners, students with learning disabilities, and on- or above-level learners too. 

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Benefits of Direct Instruction

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Empower Every Student

Leverage field-tested, proven, and ready-to-use lessons designed for all students to reach their potential, including those with learning disabilities and attention deficits as well as multilingual learners. The Direct Instruction model simplifies achievement through concept mastery design, prescribed delivery, and more than 60 years of proven success documentation.

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Activate Student Growth

With DI, students achieve higher than expected learning gains each year. Using predictable, systematic instructional patterns, the DI methodology effectively addresses learning loss, closes knowledge gaps, and bolsters student self-esteem. Skills are introduced gradually, reinforced, and continually assessed so no one falls behind.

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Implement with Ease

We are proud to partner with schools and districts to deliver an implementation experience designed to support educators’ needs with quality professional development resources and curriculum coaching so that schools achieve progress goals, educators are positioned for success, and students can reach their full potential.

"When you meet students where they are and provide effective delivery through DI, then everybody learns and succeeds."

– Shelby Jasmer, District Administrator, Cartwright School District

Mastery Schools Australia Use Direct Instruction to Boost Achievement

Watch this video to see how Mastery Schools Australia (MSA) use McGraw Hill DI programs to achieve remarkable literacy and numeracy gains for disengaged or at-risk students.

An Evidence-Based Approach

Backed by over 60 years of research, Direct Instruction continues to shape the educational landscape with positive outcomes by accelerating learning and streamlining instruction. Studies consistently reveal strong evidence of academic achievement when students are taught using DI programs. Browse our research portal to learn more.

Explore the Research Behind DI