An instructional framework is a structured and systematic approach to planning, delivering, and assessing instruction in an educational setting.  It provides a framework that educators can follow to design and implement effective teaching and learning experiences for all students. 

The Lake Geneva Schools Instructional Framework includes a range of components and principles that help teachers organize their lessons and facilitate engaging learning experiences with focuses in the areas of professional knowledge, knowledge of learners, learning environment, instructional preparation, instructional delivery, and assessment.  The framework can be applied to all levels of K-12 instruction.

INSTRUCTIONAL FRAMEWORK DESCRIPTORS
Professional Knowledge

• Possess accurate, cohesive, in-depth subject matter knowledge

• Participate in reflective practices 

• Seeks to acquire and develop teaching practices that are rooted in research  

• Engage students in interdisciplinary connections across subject areas

• Understand the standards, objectives and scope and sequence.

• Design and organize learning activities that are appropriate for learners of different abilities & interests

• Seek opportunities for growth through collaboration, ongoing professional development, and Professional Learning Communities 

Knowledge of Learners

• Collaborate with the student, caregivers, and colleagues to gain knowledge about the student

• Understand the student’s language, identity, and culture

• Respect who the student is, where they come from, and what they bring from their experiences

• Value the impact of the student’s differences on their learning

• Provide differentiated activities based on the student’s developmental levels and learning needs

Learning Environment

• Foster the social and emotional growth of all learners

• Establish and promote norms, routines, and high expectations that result in a collaborative environment 

• Maintain a community that consistently promotes respect, inclusivity, and equity 

• Develop a climate that fosters intellectual risk taking, acceptance of feedback, and accountability

• Create a flexible, physical learning space to address diverse learning needs 

• Provide various communication tools for all students to express thoughts and ideas safely

Instructional Preparation

• Use data to make intentional decisions for instructional planning and improved outcomes

• Use standards to create specific learning goals and objectives 

• Identify and plan for differentiated instruction to accommodate diverse and developmental needs

• Design a well-organized and purposeful learning experience individually or collaboratively

• Gather and evaluate appropriate instructional materials to support learning objectives

• Select teaching methods and strategies that will best facilitate student learning

Instructional Delivery

An effective teacher’s instructional delivery: 

• Communicates learning objectives and establishes purpose

• Differentiates instruction to reach and engage all learners in active learning

• Leverages students’ knowledge, skills, experiences, and interests to promote learning

• Provides continual, timely, and specific feedback to students

• Promotes cross-curricular literacy and numeracy skills to build academic vocabulary and understanding

• Reflects on effectiveness of instructional methods and implements proper adjustments

• Empowers students to take ownership of their education by guiding them through inquiry, critical thinking, and self-discovery 

• Incorporates materials and resources, including technology, into instruction to enhance learning opportunities, engage students, and promote digital literacy

Assessment

• Align assessment to student learning goals

• Use assessment to gain insight into student understanding and provide timely and specific feedback

• Help students understand assessment goals and reflect on their work

• Use assessment information to make decisions about supporting further learning

• Leverage a variety of assessment tools to inform instruction

• Design assessments that are differentiated to meet the needs of students