By Letitia West Direct Instruction Facilitator

Having a strong academic program has always been the goal at Mt. Washington School. One of the keys has been to help the students develop strong reading skills. Direct Instruction (DI) has allowed the students to flourish

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Frequently asked questions about Direct Instruction

What is Direct Instruction?
DI is a research based teacher directed program, which teaches reading. The students receive instruction using scripted lessons. Responses are oral and given as a group or individually. The structure of the program takes the students through learning steps systematically. The students are actively involved in all phases of the lesson. Review, practice and evaluation are built into every lesson.

Does DI cover the standards?
The teachers at Mt. Washington meet monthly to look at the new Language Arts Standards. They make sure that all standards are covered using DI, literature and/or a basal reading book.

How are children placed?
Students are given a placement test to determine where they begin in the program. There are six reading levels in the program. The children are placed at the level where they test. Thus allowing a child to be taught at their reading level.

What are the components of a lesson?
The teacher models what they want the children to do. The children are then asked to perform the task. The task is repeated until the children are successful. The teacher uses signals to initiate a group response thus ensuring all children are involved and respond together. Praise is used throughout the lesson.

What are the other children doing during the lesson?
While the teacher is teaching a reading group, the other children are at their seats doing other work.

How do the standards help my child’s teacher?
The standards are designed to tell your child’s teacher what the children need to know and be able to do at each level. If you did not receive a copy of the standards, contact the school and ask how you can receive a copy. This handy guide lets you know what your child is expected to know by the end of each level.

With the new educational reform legislation it is important to stay informed about the changes. Use the web addresses below to find out about "No Child Left Behind".

The main United States website for the No Child Left Behind Act

Information for Parents about the Act

Information about Direct Instruction

8.23.2007