Actualization of these theories required teachers to link curriculum and instruction to real world experiences to realign content, to design lessons including increased application of content and to design new assessments. Staff development was designed to equip teachers to deliver instruction consistent with research findings. Brain research also influenced decisions about staff development needed to increase student achievement. Brain research underscores the importance of creating meaning, helping learners move information from short to long-term memory, providing opportunities for rehearsal of content and skills, and pacing instruction. Staff developers incorporated strategies for brain-based teaching in refresher courses on effective teaching strategies, as well as courses in cooperative learning and interactive strategies.
All teachers consistently use graphic organizers to help students link and retain learning.
The 90-minute block design allows ample time for each lesson component, including development of content through explanation and modeling, application, which receives the major allocation of time in the block, and synthesis of learning. Members of the social studies and english departments integrate content objectives, instructional strategies, and assessment design. Educational literature is again emphasizing the vital link between curriculum, instruction, and assessment. Teachers are expected to keep complete and accurate records of all student work. Parent communication conferences are strongly recommended when the student continually produces work less than he or she is capable of doing.