backwards mapping template

Vaseline

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02-09-2024

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In the realm of educational planning and instructional design, backwards mapping is a powerful technique that focuses on setting clear objectives before designing the curriculum and assessments. This article will delve into the concept of backwards mapping, its importance, and how to effectively create a backwards mapping template.

What is Backwards Mapping?

Backwards mapping, also known as backwards design, is an approach where educators start with the end goals in mind. Instead of beginning with activities and lessons, the process starts by identifying what students should ultimately learn and achieve by the end of a course or unit.

Key Components of Backwards Mapping

1. Identify Desired Results:

   • Clearly define what students should know and be able to do by the end of the instruction. This includes understanding essential questions, enduring understandings, and specific learning outcomes.

2. Determine Acceptable Evidence:

   • Decide on the methods of assessment that will demonstrate whether students have met the learning objectives. This can include tests, projects, presentations, and other forms of evaluation.

3. Plan Learning Experiences and Instruction:

   • Design engaging and effective instructional strategies and activities that will help students achieve the desired results. This involves considering different teaching methods, resources, and materials.

Creating a Backwards Mapping Template

A backwards mapping template helps organize the planning process effectively. Here’s a simple structure you can follow:

Backwards Mapping Template

1. Desired Results

• Goals/Objectives:
  • What do you want your students to learn?
• Enduring Understandings:
  • What are the key concepts that students should retain long-term?
• Essential Questions:
  • What thought-provoking questions will guide the inquiry?

2. Assessment Evidence

• Performance Tasks:
  • What tasks will students perform to demonstrate their understanding?
• Other Evidence:
  • What other assessments (quizzes, projects, portfolios) will you use?
• Criteria for Success:
  • What are the standards and benchmarks that will determine success?

3. Learning Plan

• Learning Activities:
  • What activities will you implement to facilitate learning?
• Resources and Materials:
  • What materials will you need to support the instruction?
• Differentiation Strategies:
  • How will you tailor instruction to meet diverse learning needs?

Example of a Backwards Mapping Template

1. Desired Results

• Goals/Objectives:
  • Students will understand the principles of democracy.
• Enduring Understandings:
  • Democracy is a system of governance that values participation and representation.
• Essential Questions:
  • What are the key characteristics of a democratic society?

2. Assessment Evidence

• Performance Tasks:
  • Students will participate in a mock election to illustrate the democratic process.
• Other Evidence:
  • Written reflections on the importance of voting.
• Criteria for Success:
  • Students will demonstrate understanding through participation and reflection.

3. Learning Plan

• Learning Activities:
  • Group discussions, simulations, and debates.
• Resources and Materials:
  • Articles on democratic principles, videos, and election materials.
• Differentiation Strategies:
  • Group work for collaborative learning; providing extra resources for advanced learners.

Conclusion

Backwards mapping is an effective strategy for educators seeking to enhance their instructional design. By focusing on desired outcomes and assessments first, teachers can create a more coherent and purposeful learning experience for their students. Utilizing a backwards mapping template simplifies the planning process, ensuring that all educational goals are strategically aligned and effectively delivered.