Research-Based Academic Practices, Part 4

Question 1: Discuss the use of direct instruction in improving the writing mechanics of students.

Answer 1: Using direct instruction allows the teacher to develop writing lessons that are based on systematic steps that correspond to the developmental writing stages as well as provide immediate feedback. For example, the teacher may begin the lesson by modeling proper writing mechanics and implement group work to support information development. Finally, the teacher may test the class on what was presented during the lesson. Because direct instruction involves the active interaction between teachers and students, this teaching method is effective for students with behavioral problems and learning disabilities. One such program that uses direct instruction is the Reasoning and Writing program, which focuses on a variety of writing genres including essays, expository statements, and narratives. A downside of direct instruction in teaching reading mechanics is necessary intervention that may be required above and beyond regular instruction. Due to the comprehensiveness of this teaching method, lessons are typically 50 minutes along and do not allow for additional intervention time.

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Question 2: Discuss approaches of direct spelling instruction to improve students spelling abilities.

Answer 2: Teachers may employ various methods for spelling instruction including phonemic, whole word, and morphemic approaches. Phonemic approaches focus on teaching students the sounds that correspond with single letters in groups of letters. The whole word spelling approach focuses on site words and memorization. With both the phonemic and whole word approach to spelling instruction, students will review the word, write the word, and repeat this process if necessary. The morphemic approach to spelling instruction involves teaching students the rules of spelling such as prefixes, suffixes, and roots of words. When deciding on a specific approach for spelling instruction, educators must understand that not all approaches will be effective for all students and they must understand the specific learning needs of the class in order to develop an appropriate approach.

Question 3: Discuss four rationales for implementing a peer mediated intervention in the classroom.

Answer 3: Promoting active engagement The use of PMI strategies increases the active engagement of all students as well as opportunity to ask questions, and provide and receive feedback. Active engagement is successful with students with learning disabilities and behavioral problems since individualized attention can be given.Improving academic performance outcomes With the PMI strategy, students can engage in peer reading and other collaborative activities such as tutoring to increase performance an understanding of material.Improving peer interactions in classroom climate The PMI strategy requires that students work together thus increasing peer interactions and opportunities for cooperative learning. Another benefit of this strategy is peer modeling of positive behaviors and academic success.Encourage student autonomy Using this strategy, students develop their own academic goals and monitor their own academic success. This places accountability on the students as well as increases their motivation for learning and feelings of independence.

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