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Direct Instruction Methodology

An overview of the Direct Instruction teaching method, which is designed to help all students become confident learners in reading and math.

  • PreK-12
  • Education Research
  • Kindergarten
  • 1st Grade
  • 2nd Grade
  • 3rd Grade
  • 4th Grade
  • 5th Grade
  • Elementary School
  • Literacy
  • Math
  • Direct Instruction
  • Connecting Math Concepts
  • Corrective Reading
  • Research Foundation

Description

This document provides an overview of the Direct Instruction methodology. The core principles of Direct Instruction are that all students can learn if taught correctly and that all teachers can be successful with effective materials and techniques. The lessons are explicit, intensive, consistent, and interactive. A key feature is "teaching to mastery," ensuring that students understand a concept before moving on. The three keys to Direct Instruction are Design, Delivery, and Documentation. The program design breaks down concepts, models skills, and continuously assesses progress. The delivery involves scripted lessons, clear language, quick pacing, and group responses. The documentation is based on nearly 50 years of research validating the approach. The paper also highlights the importance of accurate student placement, positive reinforcement, and frequent assessments to target instruction.

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