At the Gregory School, core subjects are taught using direct instruction methods and program materials. Direct Instruction (DI) programs have been developed through empirical research and have been proven highly effective. DI is characterized by an efficient delivery of the program material. This delivery depends on the design of the DI programs as well as the techniques used by the teacher.
Program Design
- Developed through research and field testing. Proven highly effective.
- Concepts and skills are introduced in a carefully sequenced manner.
- Concepts and skills are taught gradually over a long stretch of time.
- In each lesson students work on several topics.
- Design allows students to completely master skills and concepts.
- Develops learning from component skills to applications and problem solving.
Teaching Techniques
- Energetic delivery of material.
- Rapid pacing.
- Simple, clear instructions.
- Continuous monitoring of students' performance.
- Consistent feedback given to the students.
Instruction that overcomes attention difficulties
DI methods and programs are particularly effective for students with attention difficulties because the lessons are quickly paced and the teacher is continually requiring the students' participation.
Instruction that overcomes learning difficulties
DI programs are equally beneficial for students with learning problems because the skills and concepts are learned gradually over a long period of time with plenty of opportunity to obtain mastery.
Instruction that prevents learning difficulties
Early instruction using effective DI programs and methods can PREVENT later learning problems, because basic skills, concepts and knowledge are taught in a sequential, hierarchical way to ensure mastery. Students who miss out on these crucial first skills struggle more and more as they are expected to advance without having mastered the preliminaries. Later remediation, while often effective, is more difficult and time consuming than simply "doing it right the first time". More importantly, self-esteem, which grows from success and suffers with early failure, is much harder to remedy.
Curriculum
Children with special needs require special programming. At The Gregory School, we individualize the development, delivery and evaluation of curriculum so that your child will achieve success. We offer small class sizes, specialized programming and therapeutic interventions. At The Gregory School your child will find that learning can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
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