What Can We Learn from Key Pedagogies in Initial Teacher Education and How Could This Help to Close the Attainment Gap?
Strand 1
Time: 1:40pm to 2:00pm
Presenters: Andrew Porter
Abstract:
Rosenshine’s Principles of Instruction have become highly influential in initial teacher education and professional development. However, their widespread adoption has sometimes led to oversimplification, checklist-driven practice, and misunderstandings about how the principles should be enacted in diverse classroom contexts. This session revisits Rosenshine’s work through its original research foundations and explores how the principles can support thoughtful, responsive teaching. The session will examine the intent behind key principles such as modelling, guided practice, questioning, and checks for understanding, clarifying the distinction between principles and strategies. Drawing on examples, participants will explore what high-quality enactment looks like in practice and how Rosenshine’s principles can be adapted to support inclusion and ultimately close the attainment gap. Attention will be given to how the principles align with formative assessment and the importance of foundational knowledge, which is the stepping stone for all students, regardless of their background, to make good progress and succeed. This interactive session combines concise research-informed input with structured discussion and reflection. It is designed for anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of evidence-informed instruction and to use Rosenshine’s Principles as a framework for professional thinking.