The Power of Active Learning: How to Engage Students and Improve Academic Performance

Engaging students in learning is a critical aspect of effective teaching, as it helps to capture their attention and keep them motivated throughout the learning process. By using techniques like "Show Call," "Wait Time," "Affirmative Checking," and "Do It Again," teachers can create lessons and activities that actively involve students and promote a deeper understanding of the material. Additionally, creating a positive classroom culture is equally important, as it helps to establish a supportive and empowering learning environment. Using techniques like "Do It Again," "100% technique," "Strong Voice," and "Sweat the Details," teachers can create a classroom culture that values hard work, persistence, and attention to detail. By combining these two strategies, teachers can create an engaging and supportive learning environment that helps students reach their full potential.

How Do Teachers Engage Students in Learning?

The fourth strategy in Lemov's "Big Five" is engaging students in learning. This involves creating lessons and activities that capture students' attention and keep them actively involved in the learning process. Here are some exercises to help teachers build this skill:

What is Active Learning? How can teachers engage students?

  • Use the "Show Call" technique to give students opportunities to demonstrate their understanding. This involves asking students to show a visual representation, like a drawing or diagram, of a concept or idea.

  • Use the "Wait Time" technique to give students time to process and think about a question before responding. This involves waiting at least 3-5 seconds after asking a question before calling on a student to respond.

  • Use the "Affirmative Checking" technique to build confidence and motivation in students. This involves giving students positive feedback and affirming their efforts, even if their answer is incorrect.

  • Use the "Do It Again" technique to give students opportunities to practice and master a skill. This involves having students repeat a task or activity until they have demonstrated mastery.

How Do Teachers Create a Positive Culture?

The fifth and final strategy in Lemov's "Big Five" is creating a positive classroom culture. This involves creating an environment where students feel respected, valued and empowered to learn. Here are some exercises to help teachers build this skill:

  • Use the "Do It Again" technique (mentioned above) to emphasize the importance of persistence and hard work. This involves celebrating students who show grit and determination in the face of a challenge.

  • Use the "100% technique" to set a high standard for participation and engagement. This involves aiming for 100% participation from all students, and not accepting excuses or opting out.

  • Use the "Strong Voice" technique to establish clear expectations and boundaries. This involves using a firm and assertive tone of voice to communicate expectations, and redirecting students who are off-task or disruptive.

  • Use the "Sweat the Details" technique to show students that every detail matters. This involves paying attention to small details, like the cleanliness of the classroom or the way materials are organized, to demonstrate a high level of professionalism and attention to detail.

In conclusion, building teaching skills through the "Big Five" strategies can greatly enhance a teacher's effectiveness in the classroom. By incorporating techniques from Doug Lemov's Teach Like a Champion, teachers can create a supportive and engaging learning environment that helps students achieve their full potential. With practice and dedication, these exercises can help teachers develop the skills they need to be successful in their role as educators.

  • "Teach Like a Champion 2.0: 62 Techniques that Put Students on the Path to College." Additional information and ideas were drawn from the following sources:

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