Elevating the Essentials

Focus Elevating The Essentials

Chapter 1

Strategy-Think-Pair-Share (Jigsaw)- Be ready to discuss the following questions. Read the chapter as your groups will be assigned at the meeting.

1) Odden, (2009) makes a reference to the fact we lack the persistence or will to do what we already know-success comes from enacting what we already know (pg.9). Discuss what is meant by this and how it applies to some of the use of the CWT, teacher evaluation, PDSA, and lesson planning. How does the statement we often “fail to plan” instead of “plan to fail” explain some poor data in the education system?

2) The importance of a plan is not its complexity, but its simplicity, and clarity along with consistent implementation. Explain this statement and what role data plays (pg.10)

3) Why are educators diverted toward ineffective practices before ensuring the implementation of the most essential proven principles and practices?

4) What we teach-“should be a guaranteed and viable curriculum.” How do we accomplish this? What processes already are in place to get us there? Why are constant checks for learning important? Why are procedures like “No Opt Out” consequential to an effect learning environment? (pg.10-11)

5) Have we—all practitioners—made a thorough case for the three priorities described on pp. 10–11? Have we made the case for the stunning and immediate impact that these priorities would have on student learning and college and career preparation? How could we do this? On what occasions? How often should we revisit, clarify, and reinforce these priorities?

6) What three elements does Schmoker suggest must be implemented reasonably well for a learning environment to be maximized, and why? (pg.11)

7) Schmoker gives two examples on page 12-13 of how simplicity, consistency, and implementation effectiveness are key-not complex programs or processes. Explain how this has impacted education and how we can change this in our district.

8) Why would it make sense to use something like the "warning" on page 14? 9) Why is authentic reading and writing important? Is it occurring in our schools? How do we know?

10) What does Best Buy, Apple, and Borax all have in common that have allowed them to remain successful? How does this apply to our district? (pg. 18-19)

11) Simplicity, clarity, and priority are the keys according to Schmoker- explain what he means and how are we implementing this or not? (pg. 20-21)

12) Adlai Stevenson High School is mentioned as a success on page 22, what are the key components they used to accomplish their goals? How can we implement these?