In one of my more popular posts, I argued that we need to do better than just nod politely at Direct Instruction (DI). Cognitive Load Theory is honored through DI’s ruthless efficiency: every word is deliberate, every example intentional, every new piece of content layered step by step to keep working memory clear and focused. … Continue reading Direct Instruction Embodies the Science of Learning
Take an Edu-Trip to New York City
When I first started teaching, the best professional development I received came from two people: the math coach at my school and my assigned mentor teacher. It wasn’t perfect. The math coach only focused on math, and my mentor teacher often had to teach her own class while I was in front of mine. Still, … Continue reading Take an Edu-Trip to New York City
S5E04: Marcie Samayoa on NGSS and Explicit Science Instruction
In this episode, I’m joined by Marcie Samayoa—science teacher, cognitive science enthusiast, and blogger of Scientists in the Making. Marcie shares the origin story behind her innovative classroom blog and explains how it grew out of a desire to make science learning more equitable, evidence-based, and joyful. We dive into some of the most persistent … Continue reading S5E04: Marcie Samayoa on NGSS and Explicit Science Instruction
S5E03: John Mighton on Building Math Confidence, One Problem at a Time
In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. John Mighton — mathematician, playwright, best-selling author, and founder of JUMP Math. John shares his insights into one of the most misunderstood concepts in education today—the belief that only some students are “math people”—and explains why dismantling this idea is essential for equity and achievement. As we explore … Continue reading S5E03: John Mighton on Building Math Confidence, One Problem at a Time
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
S5E02: Linda Diamond & Paige Pullen on Connecting Learning, Literacy, and Instruction
In this powerful episode, I’m joined by two of the most influential voices in literacy education today—Linda Diamond and Paige Pullen. With decades of experience in education, Linda and Paige bring clarity to the evidence-based education movement and the science of reading in particular. Together, we dive into their framework of three interrelated sciences—Learning Science, … Continue reading S5E02: Linda Diamond & Paige Pullen on Connecting Learning, Literacy, and Instruction
Why I’m Skeptical About Pre-Testing
I was recently invited to debate the utility of “pre-testing” or pre-questions as an instructional strategy in a new webinar with my friends at InnerDrive (link here). I wish I had prepared and performed better, but it turned out to be good fun anyway. Below is the recording, as well as some lingering thoughts about … Continue reading Why I’m Skeptical About Pre-Testing
Big DI and little di
When I talk about Direct and Explicit Instruction, I try to emphasize an important distinction. Big DI refers to Direct Instruction (capital D, capital I): the Engelmann-designed, scripted, highly validated programs with decades of research behind them. These programs are precise, carefully field-tested, and engineered so that success is the default outcome. Big DI is … Continue reading Big DI and little di
The Truth About Lesson Planning
The first truth about lesson planning is a paradox: In a perfect world, it wouldn’t even exist. Designing curriculum and instruction is its own science, and a difficult one at that. When well-designed programs (e.g., Direct Instruction) are in place, the heavy lifting of content analysis, sequencing and integrating of concepts, and field-testing of lessons … Continue reading The Truth About Lesson Planning
S5E01: Greg Ashman on Explicit Teaching and Inquiry Learning
Welcome to Season 5 of Progressively Incorrect! In this special premiere episode, I’m joined by Greg Ashman, a leading advocate for explicit instruction and one of the most important voices in education today. We begin by analyzing a new video from Jo Boaler, where she casts “step-by-step instruction” as the villain in favor of an … Continue reading S5E01: Greg Ashman on Explicit Teaching and Inquiry Learning
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