The Gradual Release Model is a best practice instructional model where teachers strategically transfer the responsibility in the learning process from the teacher to the students (Fisher & Frey). Typically, the model of teaching has four phases: I DO- where the teacher models the lesson objective in a focus lesson, WE DO- guided instruction with both input from the teacher and the students, YOU DO TOGETHER: Collaborative learning in small groups or partners and YOU DO ALONE- independent practice.
Objective: By the end of this video, viewers will have an understanding of the gradual release model and how to use it to teach content.
Essential Question: How do the different phases of the gradual release model support students’ attainment of content?
Questions to consider as you watch the video:
- How does Ms. Gordon model the lesson objective during the I DO phase?
- How does Ms. Gordon involve students during the WE DO phase?
- How do students rely on each other during the YOU DO (together) phase?
- How can I use the Gradual Release Model to support my own students at the primary or secondary level?
Tools & Templates
- Professional Learning Implementation Tool- Gradual Release
- Gradual Release Model Handout
- ACPS Revised Lesson Plan Template: This template provides support for using the gradual release model
Texts on the Gradual Release Model
- Effective Use of the Gradual Release Model (Fisher, 2008)
- Show Me, Help Me, Let Me– Webpost on the Gradual Release Model
Related Videos
- Classrooms in Focus- Explicit Instruction
- Coach’s Cut- Gradual Release Model
- Gradual Release Videos from the Teaching Channel and Fisher & Frey
Tools & Templates Used in this Lesson
Lesson Plan: Biology Lesson Plan
Templates:
- Classification Taxonomy Powerpoint
- Station Act Dichotomous Key
- Warm-up
- A Dichotomous Key to Planet Gordonia Creatures
- Classification PowerPoint Notes