When it comes to high-impact teaching, few frameworks are as practical—and as research-backed—as Barak Rosenshine’s Principles of Instruction. Rooted in cognitive science and classroom studies, these 10 principles offer clear guidance for everyday practice. Here's how to bring them to life in your classroom:
1. Start with Review
Begin each lesson with a short review of prior learning. This helps strengthen memory and sets the stage for new material.
2. Small Steps, Big Impact
Break new learning into bite-sized chunks. Teach one idea at a time and check understanding before moving on.
3. Ask More Questions
Great teaching involves lots of questioning. Use them to check for understanding, encourage participation, and deepen thinking.
4. Model What Success Looks Like
Demonstrate worked examples and talk through your thinking. Students benefit from seeing how you approach a task.
5. Guide Their Practice
After modelling, give students time to practise with support. This is where learning gets reinforced and clarified.
6. Check Understanding Often
Don’t wait until the end—check throughout the lesson to catch misconceptions early.
7. Aim for 80% Success
Tasks should be challenging but achievable. That sweet spot encourages growth without overwhelming students.
8. Scaffold Difficult Tasks
Use temporary supports like checklists or sentence starters. Remove them gradually as confidence builds.
9. Practice Makes Progress
Independent practice helps embed learning. Keep monitoring to make sure practice is productive.
10. Review Regularly
Weekly and monthly reviews boost long-term retention and link new knowledge with old.
Why It Works
Rosenshine’s principles help teachers manage cognitive load, boost recall, and support all learners through structured, explicit instruction. Whether you’re refining a lesson or coaching a colleague, they offer a clear lens to reflect and improve.
Which principle will you try—or revisit—this week?