The Learning Curve
The Learning Curve is a podcast from The University of Queensland’s School of Education that bridges the gap between what you learn about teaching and what actually happens in the classroom.
The Learning Curve
Using Gradual Release of Responsibility effectively
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Laura Rienks is a Head of Department for Teaching and Learning. In this episode, Laura helps answer the question, "How can teachers use Gradual Release of Responsibility (GRR) effectively in classrooms?".
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After listening to this episode, start here
Fisher & Frey – Gradual Release of Responsibility overview
NSW Government overview of the GRR model with practical technique guides for modelling, scaffolding and independent practice.
Teacher Head (Tom Sherrington) – GRR modelling explained
https://teacherhead.com/2020/11/28/the-art-of-modelling-its-all-in-the-handover/
Written explanation accompanied by images, videos and a graphic organiser to demonstrate effective modelling.
Try this tomorrow
Video: GRR in action (explicit instruction lesson example)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xp4HN9bF3tM
Shows clear modelling → guided → independent phases, as well as embedded differentiated practice, in a real classroom.
Checking for understanding – strategy bank (Edutopia)
https://www.edutopia.org/article/quick-ways-to-check-for-understanding/
List of quick, practical formative assessment strategies.
If you want to go deeper
High Impact Teaching Strategies (full PDF guide)
PDF outlining the 10 evidence-based teaching strategies/practices that measurably improve student learning.
Doug Fisher lecture describing the GRR Model
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cjURdvzty4c
Article explaining how Explicit Instruction models support Universal Design for Learning principles
https://www.novakeducation.com/blog/explicit-instruction-udl-4-ways-to-provide-explicit-instruction