Teaching as Decision Making: Successful Practices for the Elementary Teacher

This new general elementary methods book offers a balanced presentation of skills, inquiry, and social approaches to teaching, structured around the concept of instructing for understanding. The authors stress that the truly effective teacher not only has knowledge of teaching strategies but also understands the importance of asking and answering such questions as: What learner characteristics affect the success of this strategy? What contextual factors will influence its outcome? What philosophical/ethical stance does it represent? This book includes coverage that reflects a “backward design” structure and consideration of student characteristics first; then, identification of complex tasks and assessment; and finally, daily instructional planning. It emphasizes authentic assessment and the importance of considering assessment when planning instruction. For professionals in the field of teaching grades K-12.