Resource Tool

Brain-Based Research Not At All 100%

New information was presented within the context

of prior knowledge or previous experience. 1 2 3 4

Structured opportunities were provided for students

to repeat activities. 1 2 3 4

Mnemonics were used to promote associations in

memory tasks. 1 2 3 4

Visually stimulating learning materials and hands on

manipulatives were used to activate the right side

of the brain. 1 2 3 4

Text-based presentations were used to active the

left hemisphere of the brain. 1 2 3 4

Art, music and movement were incorporated to

promote learning in different areas of the brain. 1 2 3 4

Total ____/24

Authentic Instruction Not At All 100%

Students engaged in high order thinking skills. 1 2 3 4

The knowledge focus on developmentally

appropriate ideas centered on a topic or discipline. 1 2 3 4

A significant amount of classroom time was

devoted to the substantive discussion of the

subject. 1 2 3 4

There is a high level of social support for the

achievements of peers in the classroom. 1 2 3 4

Students produced work products directed toward

discussion, outcomes, and/or performances that

have value or meaning beyond the confines of the

classroom or school. 1 2 3 4

Total ____/20

Developmental Appropriateness Not At All 100%

Activities are developmentally (age) appropriate. 1 2 3 4

The individual needs of students are incorporated

into the curriculum. 1 2 3 4

Total____/8

Research Strategies Not At All 100%

Information and/or skills seem relevant to students. 1 2 3 4

Students are actively involved in the learning

process. 1 2 3 4

Learning experiences are organized. 1 2 3 4

Learning experiences enable students to derive

their own conclusions. 1 2 3 4

Students are emotionally involved/committed to

the topic. 1 2 3 4

Students can interact with others. 1 2 3 4

Information can be put to immediate use or skills

can be practiced rather than simply discussed. 1 2 3 4

Positive teacher-student relationships are cultivated. 1 2 3 4

A variety of teaching methods and learning

strategies are used. 1 2 3 4

Total____/36

Total ____/88