Backward Mapping Without building units of work backward

Backward Mapping Without building units of work ‘backward’ from key tasks, big ideas and performance standards, there are no clear priorities. Wiggins & Mc. Tighe ‘ 05

What is backward mapping? Backward mapping is a way to use a “concept” or “big idea” to organise syllabus outcomes, content and assessment.

Why backward mapping? O By thinking through the assessment upfront we ensure teaching is focused on the desired results. O “To begin with the end in mind means to start with a clear understanding of your destination. ” Stephen Covey O Sound simple? It is…

The concept O Is the concept grounded in the syllabuses? O Does the concept capture the deep learning that you want students to have by the end of the unit of work? O Is the concept appropriate and relevant for your students at that moment in time? O How will you assess that the learning is successful? O Sound a bit like the Quality Teaching Framework?

The overarching question Pose an overarching key question or essential learning statement. This should encapsulate what students need to learn by the end of the unit.

Concept Maps- begins with a ‘big picture’ concept and/or focus or key question. Concepts: Communication Key question: Why do we communicate?

Build out with Core questions How do we know who the audience is for a text? Concepts: Communication Key question: Why do we communicate?

Extended questions for differentiation. . . Can there be more than one audience? How do we know who the audience is for a text? Concepts: Communication Key question: Why do we communicate?

Support questions for differentiation. . . Can there be more than one audience? How do we know who the audience is for a text? Concepts: Communication Key question: Why do we communicate? What is an audience?

Things to keep in mind… • Plan with your team! • Check in and plan fortnightly! • Backward planning is not really very backward. It’s really forward thinking! • Make sure you start in the right place…. “If the ladder is not leaning against the right wall every step we take gets us to the wrong place faster…”