Level Up with Learning Site: Plan for Success!

Presenter: Alexis Buschert, Instructional Strategist 
Producer: Amy Rill, Instructional Technologist 

This session focused on how to use your Learning Site® resources to plan instruction efficiently using a backward design approach, helping teachers align goals, assessments, and daily activities for stronger student outcomes. 

Start with Backward Design 

• Units are built using the backward design model:
• Identify desired results (unit goals & essential questions)
• Determine assessment evidence (formative & summative assessments)
• Plan learning experiences and instruction
• Unit openers, Can-Do statements, and essential questions guide planning.
• Planning with the end of unit assessment in mind helps ensure student success. 

Use Lesson Plans and Unit Structure to Save Time 

• Ready-made 50-minute and 90-minute lesson plans are available in Resources.
• Plans include:
  • Essential questions
  • Suggested warm-ups
  • Daily activities and homework ideas
• Lesson plans are editable and can be reused year to year.
• The Critical Learning Path icons highlight activities tied directly to assessments. 

Plan with Assessments First 

• Each unit includes:
  • Formative assessments (within Communication sections)
  • Summative Integrated Performance Assessments (end of unit)
• Rubrics and sample answers help set realistic expectations.
• Assessments can be assigned digitally or printed.
• Alternate objective tests are available for additional or modified assessment needs.
• Teachers can map assessments on the calendar first, then plan lessons backward. 

Build Lessons from the Unit Flow 

• Units are organized in a consistent structure:
  • Cultural opener
  • Communication sections
  • Global Community section
  • Formative assessments
  • Summative assessment
  • Review activities
• Teachers can prioritize activities using a simple system:
  • Must-do (critical for success)
  • Helpful if time allows
  • Optional enrichment
• Teacher Edition notes provide tips, differentiation ideas, and pacing guidance.
• Multiple tasks can be assigned at once 

Extend Learning with Additional Tools 

• Student portfolios allow reflection on Can-Do statements.
• Instructional Strategies Toolkit offers 200+ activity ideas.
• Nualang provides:
  • Individualized practice
  • Chatbot conversations
  • Recorded discussions
  • Quick review games 

Get Help Anytime 

• Use the Candoo owl icon (lower right) to access training guides and tutorials.
• Use the Help / Question mark icon (lower left) to contact support.
• Share your Feedback to suggest improvements to the Learning Site® Team 
   

Have additional questions about our titles and Learning Site? 
Connect with an Account Manager to learn more about how Wayside can help. 

Explore more from the Level Up with Learning Site series. 

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