Curriculum
What’s Happening In Our Classrooms
Explicit Instruction
Supporting every student to learn with clarity and confidence
Explicit instruction is a key teaching approach used across our school. Aligned with the Victorian Teaching and Learning Model 2.0 (VTLM 2.0), it ensures learning is clear, well‑structured, and responsive, supporting all students to engage deeply and experience success.
What Is Explicit Instruction?
Explicit instruction means teachers:
Clearly explain what students are learning and why
Break learning into manageable steps
Model new skills and concepts
Provide regular opportunities for students to practise
Check students’ understanding throughout the lesson and respond accordingly
Explicit instruction supports students by reducing confusion, building confidence, and making learning expectations clear.
What Students Might Notice In Class
When learning through explicit instruction, students may:
Hear teachers clearly explain and model new ideas
Respond frequently during lessons by thinking, speaking, writing, or showing their understanding
Practise skills together before moving to independent work
Receive timely feedback to help them improve
These frequent “Opportunities to Respond” help teachers understand how students are progressing and adjust teaching to meet their needs.
Learn More: What Is Explicit Instruction?
We invite families who would like to learn more to watch this short explainer video by Dr Nathaniel Swain, an Australian researcher and expert in teaching and learning.
Dr Nathaniel Swain clearly explains what explicit instruction looks like in classrooms and why it supports student learning.
Working Together To Support Learning
Explicit instruction helps ensure that:
Learning is clear and purposeful
Students are actively engaged during lessons
Teachers can respond quickly to students who need extra support or extension
We look forward to continuing to work in partnership with families to support each child’s learning journey.
