Backward Design
From New Teacher Handbook
Definitions
Backward design begins with the end in mind. What do you want your students to know? How will your students demonstrate their understanding of the lesson when the lesson is over? By beginning with the end in mind, teachers are able to focus learning activities that are directly related to student achievement. By scaffolding the levels of knowledge, teachers can separate learning into three parts:
- What knowledge is essential to know?
- What is important to know?
- What is nice to know?
Stages of Lesson Planning
There are three stages of the lesson planning that make for a successful learning unit.
Stage 1 ~ What is essential for students to understand? What are the desired results?
In the backward design model, teachers focus on the learning goals of the unit. At the end of the lesson, what is it that each student should know and understand? Understanding goes beyond the recall of facts and skills to focus on larger concepts and ideas.
Stage 2 ~ How will students demonstrate their learning? Focus on assessment before planning the learning activities.
Here is where the teacher begins planning assignments and activities. In order for students to fully understand the lesson they must be able to explain, interpret, apply, and draw real world comparisons. There should be a full range of assessment tools used, including the more traditional tests and quizzes. Use a variety of assessment tools to meet the needs of each student in the class.
Stage 3 ~ What learning experiences will enable students to develop understanding? Ensure success for all learners.
In stage three of the backward design model, teachers design the activities that will lead to developing understanding. Activities should be those that not only examine facts, but include activities that generate analysis, inquiry, and connections. Students should demonstrate understanding throughout the unit, not just at the end.
