Demonstration is a powerful way to share effective classroom strategies with colleagues. Here are some tips for an effective demonstration:
- Clear objectives: Define what you want to demonstrate and what colleagues will take away.
- Prepare thoroughly: Rehea**e and prepare materials, resources, and technology.
- Model best practices: Demonstrate research-based strategies and techniques.
- Show, don't tell: Allow colleagues to observe and experience the strategy firsthand.
- Provide context: Explain the lesson's objectives, student needs, and relevance.
- Highlight key elements: Emphasize critical components, such as assessment, feedback, or differentiation.
- Encourage observation and note-taking: Allow colleagues to observe, take notes, and ask questions.
- Debrief and discuss: Lead a discussion after the demonstration to answer questions, provide additional context, and encourage feedback.
- Provide resources and support: Offer additional resources, materials, or coaching to support colleagues in implementing the strategy.
- Follow up: Check in with colleagues to see how they're implementing the strategy and offer ongoing support.
Demonstration ideas:
- Model lessons: Teach a lesson using a specific strategy or technique.
- Think-alouds: Demonstrate your thought process while teaching or planning.
- Fishbowl discussions: Lead a discussion or activity while colleagues observe.
- Simulations: Recreate a classroom scenario to demonstrate a strategy or technique.
- Co-teaching demonstrations: Team up with a colleague to demonstrate co-teaching strategies.
By demonstrating effective classroom strategies, you can inspire and empower colleagues to enhance their teaching practices and improve student learning.