The objective is to improve students' knowledge and skills related to subject. Student portfolios are maintained in each class to demonstrate learning gains over the course of a term. Teachers maintain assessment portfolios to examine the effectiveness of assessments and make appropriate instructional changes. Teachers post daily objectives, what students will know and be able to demonstrate or produce by the end of the class. During instruction, students are engaged in learning via structured conversation, discussion, hands-on activities, and small group work.
Instruction is student centered, engaging, purposeful and clear.
Burke teachers were trained by Research for Better Teaching trainers to improve delivery of instruction. Administrators visit classrooms daily and give feedback to the teachers. Transitional Program Grade 9 students receive specific instruction in Literacy with classes focusing on Vocabulary development, reading, writing and study skills. Leveled, small group reading and writing instruction takes place in classes each day. A Literacy Coach develops curriculum with transition teachers who have had special training in Secondary Literacy and models instruction for teachers.