September 2023 Protocol of the Month: Scaffolding Notes Made Easy!

How do teachers know if students are paying attention during direct instruction? This simple technique will keep student accountability high, generate a reliable study guide, and satisfy IEP requirements.  Comment below to let us know how it goes- 

SKELETAL LECTURE NOTES (Writing, Feedback, Collaboration)

​Description: This simple active engagement writing strategy assists students to stay focused during direct instruction (lecture), most especially in large classes.  Students must listen closely during class in order to fill-in the pieces of omitted information.

Application: Use in any subject that includes a lecture format.

Process: Before class, create a handout that covers the lesson’s direct instruction piece.  Omit some, but not all, key words such as specific people, places, events, and things. On class day, provide students with a handout of the day’s lecture.  Warn students not to interrupt the lecture. During the presentation, emphasize those omitted words by pausing, repeating, or inflecting.  Unless there is mass confusion, tell students there will be time for clarification of information with fellow students, not the teacher.

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