Are you looking for new ways to teach and learn in your classroom? This summary of sample teaching strategies includes methods that appeal to all students and work for all teachers.
What are teaching strategies?
In the simplest terms, instructional strategies are the methods that teachers use to achieve learning objectives. In other words, just about any learning activity you can think of is an example of a teaching strategy. They are also referred to as teaching strategies and learning strategies.
These strategies are sometimes divided into five types: direct, indirect, experiential, interactive, and independent. (Learn more about types of teaching strategies here.) But many examples of learning strategies fit into several categories. The more options teachers have in their toolkit, the easier it will be to help all students achieve their goals.
Don't be afraid to try new strategies from time to time - you might just find a new favorite! Here are some of the most common examples of teaching strategies.
Those ones:STEM activities for kids
In this indirect learning method, students solve a problem to find a solution. Along the way, they must develop the knowledge to understand the problem and use creative thinking to solve it.STEM challengesare great examples of problem-solving teaching strategies.
To know more:teach problem solving
This method is often criticized these days for being "boring" or "old-fashioned". It's true that you don't want this to be your only teaching strategy, but short lectures are still very effective learning tools. This type of direct instruction is perfect for providing specific details or teaching a step-by-step process. And lectures don't have to be boring - just watch themted talk.
To know more:Advantages and disadvantages of lecture
3. Didactic questions
These are often combined with other direct teaching methods such as lectures. The teacher asks questions to determine the student's understanding of the material. There are often questions that begin with "who", "what", "where" and "when".
To know more:ask
In this direct teaching method, students watch as the teacher demonstrates an action or skill. It could be a teacher solving a math problem step by step or watching them demonstrate correct handwriting on the whiteboard. This is usually followed by students doing practice exercises or activities in a similar fashion.
To know more:Prepare effective demonstrations for the classroom and lab (PDF)
We use storytelling as a teaching method since Aesop's Fables. Stories capture students' attention from the start and keep them engaged throughout the learning process. Real-life stories and fiction work equally well, depending on the situation.
To know more:storytelling in the classroom
6. Exercise and practice
If you've ever used flashcards to help kids practice math facts or had the whole class sing the spelling of a word out loud, you've used Drill & Practice. It is another example of traditional teaching strategies. When kids need to remember specific information or master a skill step by step, drills and practice really work.
To know more:drill and practice
7. Spaced repetition
Often paired with direct or independent instruction, spatial repetition is a method in which students are asked to recall specific information or skills at increasing intervals. For example, one day after class discusses the causes of the American Civil War, the teacher might return to the subject and ask students to make a list of causes. The following week the teacher asks her again and a few weeks after that. Spaced repetition helps retain knowledge and is particularly useful when students don't practice it every day but need to know it long-term (for example, for a final exam).
To know more:Spaced Repetition: A Guide to Technique
8. Project-Based Learning
When children engage in true project-based learning, they learn through indirect and experiential strategies. As they work to find solutions to a real-world problem, they develop critical thinking skills and learn through research, trial and error, collaboration, and other experiences.
To know more:What is project-based learning?
9. Attribution of concept
Those ones:Cornell University
Students use concept maps to break a topic down into its main points and make connections between those points.
To know more:Concept Mapping at Cornell University
10. Case Studies
When you think of case studies, the first thing that probably comes to mind is law school. But this method works at any age, for a variety of problems. This indirect learning method teaches students to use the material to draw conclusions, make connections, and expand on their existing knowledge.
To know more:This case method
11. Reading for meaning
This is different from learning to read. Instead, students use texts (print or digital) to learn about a topic. This traditional strategy works best when students already have strong reading comprehension. try ourfree reading comprehension packto enable students to get the most out of meaningful reading.
To know more:reading by meaning
12. Science experiments
Those ones:game rhythms
This is experiential learning at its finest. Through hands-on experiments, children learn to set expectations, develop sound methods, draw conclusions, and much more.
To know more:Hundreds of science experiment ideas for kids and teens
Entering the real world gives children the opportunity to learn indirectly through experience. They can see concepts they already know put into practice or learn new information or skills from the world around them.
To know more:The Big List of PreK-12 Field Trip Ideas
Teachers have long known that playing games is a fun (and sometimes sneaky) way to engage kids in learning. You can use educational games specially designed for each topic. Also, regular board games (like these classroom favorites) often involve a lot of indirect learning about math, reading, critical thinking, and more.
To know more:10 benefits of playing games in the classroom
This strategy combines experiential, interactive, and indirect learning into one. The teacher simulates a real activity or experience. Students take on roles and participate in the exercise, using existing skills and knowledge or developing new ones. At the end, the class reflects separately and together on what happened and what they learned.
To know more:A simple approach to using simulation in any classroom
16. Service learning
This is another example of a teaching strategy that brings students into the real world. It often involves problem-solving skills and gives children the opportunity for meaningful socio-emotional learning.
To know more:Was that Service Learning?
17. Peer instruction
It is often said that the best way to learn something is to teach it to others. Studies on the so-called “protected effect” also seem to confirm this. To teach, you must first understand the information yourself. Then you have to find ways to share it with others - sometimes in more ways than one. This deepens your connection to the material and it stays with you for much longer. Try giving instructions to each other in your classroom and see the magic in action.
To know more:Do you want students to remember what they are learning? let them teach you
Those ones:Die New York Times
Some teachers avoid classroom debates because they fear they will become too controversial. But learning to debate and defend different points of view is an important life skill. Debate teaches students to research their topic, make informed decisions, and argue effectively using facts instead of emotion.
To know more:100 High School Debate Topics to Get Every Student Excited
19. Class or small group discussion
Class, small group, and pair discussions are excellent examples of interactive teaching strategies. When students discuss a topic, they clarify their own thinking and learn from the experiences and opinions of others. Of course, not only do they learn about the topic itself, but they also develop valuable active listening and collaboration skills.
To know more:13 strategies to improve classroom discussions
Take your classroom discussions one step further with the Fishbowl Method. A small group of students sit in the middle of the room. They discuss and debate a topic while their peers listen silently and take notes. Finally, the teacher opens the discussion to the whole class, who give feedback and present their own affirmations and challenges.
To know more:How I Use Fishbowl Discussions to Engage All Students
Instead of a teacher providing examples to explain a topic or solve a problem, students do the work themselves. Remember the only rule of brainstorming: any idea is welcome. Make sure everyone has the opportunity to contribute and form diverse groups to generate lots of unique ideas.
To know more:Brainstorm in the classroom
RPGs are a kind of simulation, but less intense. It's perfect for practicing and focusing on soft skillssocioemotional learning. Alter this strategy by having students model good and bad interactions and then discuss the difference.
To know more:How to teach RPG - and how not to
This structured discussion technique is simple: First, students think about a question asked by the teacher. Bring students together and ask them to discuss their answers. Finally, open it up for class discussion. This helps children participate in discussions privately and gives them a chance to 'practice' before speaking in front of the whole class.
To know more:Think peer sharing and 10 fun alternatives
24. Learning Centers
Those ones:preschool bag
Encourage independent learning strategies with centers just for math, writing, reading, and more. Offer a variety of activities and let children choose how to spend their time. They usually learn best through activities they enjoy.
To know more:6 Key Benefits of Learning Centers in the Classroom
25. Computer-aided instruction
Once a rarity, now commonplace, computer-based instruction allows students to work independently. They can proceed at their own pace and repeat sections without feeling like they are slowing down the class. Teach students good computer skills from an early age so they feel confident they are focused on their work and doing it safely.
To know more:Computer-assisted teaching and reading
Writing an essay encourages children to clarify and organize their thinking. Written communication has become more important in recent years, so being able to write clearly and concisely is a skill every child needs. This independent teaching strategy has proven its worth, and for good reason.
To know more:The Big List of Writing Topics for High School
27. Research Projects
Here's another old but good one! When children work independently to research and present a topic, their learning is entirely up to them. You set the pace, choose a focus, and learn to plan and meet deadlines. This is often an opportunity for them to showcase their creativity and personality.
To know more:Tips and ideas for classroom research projects
28. Keep a journal
Personal journals give children the opportunity to reflect and think critically about problems. Whether they are responding to teacher instructions or simply recording their daily thoughts and experiences, this independent learning method strengthens writing and interpersonal skills.
To know more:The benefits of journaling in the classroom
29. Graphic organizers
Those ones:around the bonfire
Graphic organizers are a way to visually organize information to help students understand and remember it. A good organizer simplifies complex information and presents it in a way that makes it easy for the student to digest. Graphic organizers can include both text and images, helping students connect in meaningful ways.
To know more:Graphic Organizer 101: Why and How to Use Them
Jigsaw combines group learning with peer teaching. Students are assigned to "starter groups". Within this group, each student is given a specific topic to learn. You join other students on the same subject, research, discuss and become an expert. Eventually, students return to their home group and teach the other members about the subject they specialized in.
To know more:Why use a jigsaw?
Which of your favorite examples of teaching strategies did we miss? Come join theGrupo HELPLINE WeAreTeachers no Facebook!
Also check the7 Things Teachers Say The Best Teaching Coaches Do.
30 examples of teaching strategies for any type of classroom? ›
Some active learning strategies include: Reciprocal questioning: Have students come up with questions for the class on a recent lesson or concept. The pause procedure: Take a break every 10 to 15 minutes so that students have time to discuss, ask questions or solve problems.What strategies do you use to ensure that all students are learning in your classroom? ›
- Begin the lesson with an interesting fact. ...
- Exude enthusiasm and engagement. ...
- Encourage connections that are meaningful and relevant. ...
- Plan for short attention spans. ...
- Address different learning styles and multiple intelligences. ...
- Converse with students — don't talk at them.
Some active learning strategies include: Reciprocal questioning: Have students come up with questions for the class on a recent lesson or concept. The pause procedure: Take a break every 10 to 15 minutes so that students have time to discuss, ask questions or solve problems.What kinds of strategies are most effective within your classroom? ›
- Model ideal behavior. ...
- Let students help establish guidelines. ...
- Document rules. ...
- Avoid punishing the class. ...
- Encourage initiative. ...
- Offer praise. ...
- Use non-verbal communication. ...
- Hold parties.
In the contemporary classroom, five distinct teaching styles have emerged as the primary strategies adopted by modern teachers: The Authority Style, The Delegator Style, The Facilitator Style, The Demonstrator Style and The Hybrid Style.What strategies can be used to bring effective teaching learning progress in schools *? ›
- Know Your Pupils and Develop Their Respect. ...
- Appropriate use of Summative and Formative Assessments. ...
- Teach the Vocabulary. ...
- Explicit Instruction. ...
- Effective Questioning Techniques. ...
- Deliberate Practice. ...
- Differentiation. ...
- Reinforcing Effort/Providing Recognition.
- Write Down the Rules.
- Let Students Help.
- Encourage Questioning.
- Let Students Lead.
- Encourage Group Projects.
These six strategies for effective learning are based on evidence-based research and the science of learning. We will explore: spaced practice, retrieval practice, elaboration, concrete examples, dual coding and interleaving.What are examples of classroom intervention strategies? ›
- Phone call home.
- Home visit.
- Classroom observation.
- Pre-correction conversation.
- Preventative problem-solving plan.
- Student and/or parent meeting with Support Team.
- WOOP (student goal-setting)
- Review cumulative folder.
- Having compassion and empathy. ...
- Creating a secure and dependable structure. ...
- Ramping up the positive. ...
- Supporting academic risk. ...
- Teaching active listening. ...
- Embedding strategy instruction. ...
- Building collaborative relationships.
What are the 4 classroom management strategies? ›
Classroom management can be done in four different ways: authoritarian, authoritative, permissive, and indulgent.What is the most useful learning strategy? ›
The most effective strategy according to Dunlosky's research is practice testing. It consists of studying and reviewing by answering questions and actively bringing information back to mind. When this is done, information is reconsolidated, new connections are created, and memory and understanding are strengthened.What are the 4 learning styles in the classroom? ›
There are 4 predominant learning styles: Visual, Auditory, Read/Write, and Kinaesthetic. While most of us may have some general idea about how we learn best, often it comes as a surprise when we discover what our predominant learning style is.What are the 6 types of learning in the classroom? ›
These include visual, auditory, kinesthetic, social, solitary, and verbal.How many teaching strategies are there? ›
There are 87 instructional strategies listed below, but several are repeated across categories, so let's call it '50+' strategies.What strategies a teacher can use in the classroom to motivate students? ›
- Build relationships with your students. ...
- Use examples as often as possible. ...
- When possible, hand over control to the student. ...
- Use all types of technology available to you. ...
- Provide specific praise to students for little things and big things. ...
- Set up a token or points system.
- Establishing Rapport and Building Relationships. ...
- Creating a Positive Learning Environment. ...
- Providing Engaging Instruction. ...
- Promoting Student Engagement. ...
- Having a Clear and Concise Behavior Policy. ...
- Establishing Classroom Routines and Procedures. ...
- Implementing Effective Discipline. ...
- Implementing Effective Communication.
This diversity in learning styles calls for a variety of approaches to classroom management. This study is anchored with the seven primary classroom management approaches: Assertive, Business-Academic, Behavioral-Modification, Group Managerial, Group Guidance, Acceptance, and Success.What are the 10 aspects of classroom management? ›
The top ten tips for classroom management are: (1) Build community; (2) Design a safe, friendly, and well-managed classroom environment; (3) Include students in creating rules, norms, routines, and consequences; (4) Create a variety of communication channels; (5) Always be calm, fair, and consistent; (6) Know the ...What are the core four effective teaching strategies? ›
Those four elements—flexible content and tools, targeted instruction, data-driven decisions and student reflection and ownership—are the Core Four of Personalized Learning.
What are the two main teaching strategies? ›
The two main types of teaching methods & strategies are teacher-centered instruction and student-centered instruction.What are the 4 C's teaching strategies? ›
The 21st century learning skills are often called the 4 C's: critical thinking, creative thinking, communicating, and collaborating. These skills help students learn, and so they are vital to success in school and beyond. Critical thinking is focused, careful analysis of something to better understand it.What are 5 examples of intervention strategies? ›
- Behavioural Interventions. ...
- Collaborative Interventions. ...
- One-to-One Interventions. ...
- Classroom-Based Interventions. ...
- Social, Emotional and Wellbeing Interventions. ...
- Peer Tutoring. ...
- Metacognition and Self-Regulation. ...
The Best Classroom Management Strategies Today
The five components of effective classroom management include developing behavioral standards, establishing working relationships with students, valuing your time as a teacher, familiarizing students with teaching methods, and anticipating student behavior.
Teaching strategies refer to the methods, techniques, procedures and processes that a teacher uses during instruction. It is generally recognised that teaching strategies are multidimensional and their effectiveness depends on the context in which they are applied.What are the five 5 strategies in motivating lessons? ›
- Promote growth mindset over fixed mindset. ...
- Develop meaningful and respectful relationships with your students. ...
- Grow a community of learners in your classroom. ...
- Establish high expectations and establish clear goals. ...
- Be inspirational.
In the morning you will learn about the Big 8 classroom management strategies from the book Class Acts. These are: Expectations, Cueing, Tasking, Attention Prompts, Signals, Voice, Time Limits, and Proximity.Can you identify 3 kinds of learning strategies? ›
The three basic types of learning styles are visual, auditory, and kinesthetic.What are the 3 C's of classroom management? ›
As you consider some of your most challenging students or classes, think about your approach to classroom management through the lens of these three areas: connection, consistency, and compassion.What are the 6 principles of classroom management? ›
Your ability to connect with the students and demonstrating qualities like kindness, warmth, support, clarity, proactive approach, and consistency can go a long way in making the classroom heaven for learning where students exhibit ideal behavior full of politeness and obedience.
What is active learning strategies? ›
An active learning strategy is any type of activity during class (face-to-face, online, or outside of class) that engages learners in deep thought about the subject matter in your course.What is 10 2 teaching strategy? ›
At its core, the 2x10 strategy is about consistently building relationships with students. Educators (or school leaders) select a particular student and set a goal to engage in a 2-minute conversation with that student for 10 consecutive school days.What are three learning strategies examples? ›
studying and remembering information. writing and taking notes. improving assignment and test performance. effectively interacting with others.What is the three two one teaching strategy? ›
A 3-2-1 prompt helps students structure their responses to a text, film, or lesson by asking them to describe three takeaways, two questions, and one thing they enjoyed. It provides an easy way for teachers to check for understanding and to gauge students' interest in a topic.