The Elements of Great Teaching – Dimension 3, Element 2
Welcome back to The Elements of Great Teaching podcast series, where we continue breaking down the elements of what makes great teaching. In this sixth episode, Adam Kohlbeck and I focus on Dimension 3: Maximising Opportunity to Learn, with a spotlight on Element 2: Consistent and fair application of expectations from the Model for Great Teaching.
We highlight the importance of clarity and fairness. When students understand the rules and know they’ll be enforced predictably, classrooms become spaces where focus and learning can flourish. Adam and I explore how applying these principles consistently helps students feel secure, while also reducing behaviour issues.
Listen to the full episode below to learn more about creating a classroom culture of trust and clarity.
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1:16:32
The Elements of Great Teaching – Dimension 2, Element 3
Welcome back to The Elements of Great Teaching, where we explore the essential elements that make great teaching impactful. In this fifth episode, Adam Kohlbeck and I turn our attention to Dimension 2: Creating a Supportive Environment, with a focus on Element 3: Promoting Learner Motivation from the Model for Great Teaching.
Motivation is the driving force behind effective learning, and teachers play a key role in creating an environment that fosters it. In this episode, we discuss how to nurture student motivation by cultivating feelings of competence, autonomy, and relatedness—three essential psychological needs that fuel engagement and persistence in learning.
What strategies do you use to motivate your students? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments or on social media. We’d love to hear how you bring this element to life in your classroom!
Listen below.
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1:06:24
The Elements of Great Teaching – Dimension 4, Element 2
Welcome back to The Elements of Great Teaching, where we continue exploring the evidence-based practices of effective teaching. In this fourth episode Adam Kohlbeck and I dive into Dimension 4: Activating Hard Thinking, with a focus on Element 2: Explaining from the Model for Great Teaching this time with a special guest!
Great teaching hinges on the ability to present and communicate ideas clearly and in ways that resonate with students. In this episode, we unpack what it means to deliver concise, engaging explanations that connect new learning to what students already know, making it accessible and meaningful.
Listen below to explore how explaining can transform your teaching and help students engage in deeper, more meaningful learning.
How do you ensure your explanations resonate with your students? Share your tips and reflections in the comments or on social media. We’d love to hear from you!
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The Elements of Great Teaching – Dimension 1, Element 3
Welcome back to The Elements of Great Teaching podcast series, where we explore the evidence-informed principles that underpin effective teaching. In this third episode, Adam Kohlbeck and I focus on Dimension 1: Understanding the Content, zeroing in on Element 3: Knowledge of Curriculum Tasks from the Model for Great Teaching.
Teaching isn’t just about delivering content; it’s about delivering the right content in the right way. This episode dives into why understanding the curriculum deeply—and knowing how to connect it with meaningful tasks, assessments, and activities—is key to fostering student learning.
Listen below to Episode 3. Let us know your thoughts on the episode—how do you incorporate this element into your practice? Share your ideas and reflections in the comments or on social media!
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1:02:41
The Elements of Great Teaching – Dimension 3 Element 1
Welcome back to The Elements of Great Teaching podcast series, where we unpack the essential elements of effective teaching and explore how they translate into real-world classroom practice. In this second episode, Adam and I delve into Dimension 3: Maximising Opportunity to Learn, with a focus on Element 1: Managing Time and Resources from the Model for Great Teaching.
Efficient time and resource management in the classroom might not always be the first thing that comes to mind when we think of great teaching, but it’s a critical foundation for student success. Teachers who skilfully manage their time and resources ensure that every moment in the classroom counts, maximising both productivity and learning outcomes. In this episode we discuss the practical strategies that teachers can use to optimise time, reduce wasted moments, and create a structured environment that supports learning.
Listen below to start maximising opportunities to learn in your classroom.