Teachers Utilize Conceptual Refinement (CR)
LKSD Best Practice #8
The purpose of conceptual refinement is to support students in their comprehension of the content that was just learned.
Focus Friday: November 10, 2023
Key Features of CR
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15 minutes at the end of a content lesson
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Should be conducted in the language of instruction
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CR often follows a completed lesson, during which students had plenty of opportunities to engage with partner work to practice new skills
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During the lesson the teacher monitors the class's progress to determine who may be struggling
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A student who is struggling may need more background support or clarification of the language that was used
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CR is specific to the content/ skill that was just taught
In this photo we can see the teacher is sitting at a separate table with four students while the rest of the class is working on independent practice at the end of their math lesson.
Credit: Suzanne Walters, 2/3 grade, Quinhagak 2022
CR time is inclusive of instructional block and should be listed in the daily classroom schedule
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CR may not be needed everyday in every subject area
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Where within the lesson cycle it happens varies based on student understanding/ need
For more information on the Best Practices Lesson Cycle, visit BP #4
Conceptual Refinement in Action
This demonstrates an approach to CR that is quick and in the moment. While the rest of the class does an addition activity, the student in need of additional support is asked to stay at the calendar and assist the teacher. She uses this as an opportunity to review the concept with which he is struggling.