UbD/DI- Chapter 3

In this chapter we review what really matters in learning. The biggest problem when it comes to teaching is that teachers are overwhelmed with too much content to teach given the available time. This problem of too much content is equally as hard as figuring out what to emphasize and what not to teach. Because teachers are constantly being upheld to such rigorous standards teachers begin to face such problems like the standards are too big or the standards are just too small. Some content standards are not the only problem though; textbooks too often hurt not help the problem. When teaching students the learning results should be considered in terms of understanding the “big ideas” and the core processes within those content standards. Big ideas and essential questions provide a new way to see and address the standards. The main goal of all teachers and school efforts is not just to improve student learning of important content, but to go above and beyond.
When using the backward planning model there are three stages to consider. Stage 1 is to identify desired results, what you want your students to know and be able to do and understand. Stage 2 is to determine acceptable evidence, how to determine or know that your students understand the material at hand and are proficient in it. Stage 3 is to plan learning experiences and instruction, what activities and learning styles can best help the students. A teacher’s job is to teach with the goal of improving content and check regularly if students are up to par on the learning. When teachers plan backward, by design, they are less likely to succumb to the problems of activity or coverage-oriented teaching. We want to improve the students’ learning by encouraging people to work smarter. The big ideas and essential questions are the basis or pillars for the various disciplines. Flexibility, finding a balance and essential skills are very important to a teaching classroom.

This chapter helped me to realize the importance of using backward planning. This backward design provides a structure for teachers and the support to become more flexible and grow. This blending of UbD and DI provides a focus on essential knowledge, understanding, skills and flexibility in guiding and coaching learners to the desired ends. This chapter reveals that teachers face many more challenges then what one may think. Not only do teachers have to teach these models and content but they are learning as well. Every student is different and will learn different, a good teacher understands that and can overcome any obstacle.