I recently started this series about motivation and Direct/explicit instruction. So far, it has looked at key delivery and design considerations, such as brisk pacing, praise, and obtaining high success rates. These are useful as goals for individual teachers, but on their own, they miss what the best schools do to motivate whole groups of … Continue reading Direct Instruction Motivation, Part 4: Motivational Models
Direct Instruction Motivation, Part 3: Success, Not Struggle
This series explores a rarely discussed strength of direct instruction: its power to motivate students. While critics often paint explicit teaching as boring or uninspiring, the truth is that its structure, pace, and design motivate kids better than any other system. There is a certain romance in education about the idea of “Productive Struggle.” The notion goes … Continue reading Direct Instruction Motivation, Part 3: Success, Not Struggle
Direct Instruction Motivation Part 2: Productive Praise
This series explores a rarely discussed strength of direct instruction: its power to motivate students. While critics often paint explicit teaching as boring or uninspiring, the truth is that its structure, pace, and design motivate kids better than any other system. If momentum is the first ingredient of motivation, the second is acknowledgment. Direct Instruction … Continue reading Direct Instruction Motivation Part 2: Productive Praise
Direct Instruction Motivation Part 1: Keep It Moving
This series explores a rarely discussed strength of direct instruction: its power to motivate students. While critics often paint explicit teaching as boring or uninspiring, the truth is that its structure, pace, and design motivate kids better than any other system. Momentum is fragile. Linger too long, and you’ll lose them. Ask a question the … Continue reading Direct Instruction Motivation Part 1: Keep It Moving

