Focus on Learning

Modelled, Shared, Guided and Independent Learning at St Joseph's 

Walking in to a classroom here at St. Joseph's, you will straight away notice that the students are actively involved in what is known as the 'Gradual Release of Responsibility'. This model creates environments where learning happens through experimentation, practice, meta-cognition & repeated refinement. 

How does the Gradual Release of Responsibility work?

Modelled - teacher does, student observes

This is where the teacher explicitly introduces the learning intention and models what is needed for success using 'think alouds'. The role of the student in the modelled session is to actively observe and be focused. 

Shared - teacher leads, students help

This is where the teacher continues to explicitly teach and model the concept, allowing the students to consolidate their understanding with input. The role of the student in the shared session is to be an active participant, ask questions, clarify thoughts and listen to others. 

Guided - students do, teacher helps

This is where the teacher provides meaningful and rich tasks to students based on need. The teacher closely monitors and scaffolds students to achieve. The role of the student in the guided session is to be prepared to learn, ask questions, listen to others and stay on task.

Independent - students do, teacher observes 

This is where the teacher provides further meaningful and rich tasks that allow students to practise and consolidate their understanding. The role of the student in the independent session is to work on task, be focused and apply themselves to the best of their ability.    

Here are some pictures of the Gradual Release of Responsibility happening within our classrooms: