The ten milestones

InTASC Standards

The InTASC Model Core Teaching Standards (CCSSO, 2013) describe what effective teaching looks like. They are the milestones I measure every artifact in this portfolio against — ten markers on the road to the classroom.

Standard by standard

Ten markers on the road

The standards group into four domains: The Learner and Learning (1–3), Content (4–5), Instructional Practice (6–8), and Professional Responsibility (9–10).

  1. The Learner and Learning

    Learner Development

    Understanding how learners grow and develop — cognitively, linguistically, socially, emotionally, and physically — and designing developmentally appropriate learning experiences.

    My artifacts: Artifacts aligned to this standard will be linked here as the program progresses. First candidate: work from ED 503 — The Learner & Learning in the Digital Age.

  2. The Learner and Learning

    Learning Differences

    Using understanding of individual differences and diverse cultures and communities to ensure inclusive learning environments where every learner can reach high standards.

    My artifacts: Artifacts aligned to this standard will be linked here as the program progresses. First candidates: work from ED 503 and ED 504.

  3. The Learner and Learning

    Learning Environments

    Working with others to create environments that support individual and collaborative learning, positive social interaction, and active engagement.

    My artifacts: Artifacts aligned to this standard will be linked here as the program progresses. First candidate: work from ED 504 — Managing the Learning Environment.

  4. Content

    Content Knowledge

    Understanding the central concepts, tools of inquiry, and structures of the discipline — and making the content accessible and meaningful to learners.

    My artifacts: Artifacts aligned to this standard will be linked here as the program progresses. First candidate: work from ED 506 — Planning & Preparation for Learning.

  5. Content

    Application of Content

    Connecting concepts and using differing perspectives to engage learners in critical thinking, creativity, and collaborative problem solving around authentic issues.

    My artifacts: Artifacts aligned to this standard will be linked here as the program progresses. First candidates: work from ED 506 and clinical practice fieldwork.

  6. Instructional Practice

    Assessment

    Understanding and using multiple methods of assessment to engage learners in their own growth, monitor progress, and guide decision making.

    My artifacts: Artifacts aligned to this standard will be linked here as the program progresses. First candidate: work from ED 505 — Student Assessments.

  7. Instructional Practice

    Planning for Instruction

    Planning instruction that supports every student in meeting rigorous learning goals, drawing on content knowledge, pedagogy, and knowledge of learners.

    My artifacts: Artifacts aligned to this standard will be linked here as the program progresses. First candidate: work from ED 506 — Planning & Preparation for Learning.

  8. Instructional Practice

    Instructional Strategies

    Using a variety of instructional strategies to encourage deep understanding of content and to build skills for applying knowledge in meaningful ways.

    My artifacts: Artifacts aligned to this standard will be linked here as the program progresses. First candidates: work from ED 506 and ED 507 — Introduction to Clinical Practice.

  9. Professional Responsibility

    Professional Learning and Ethical Practice

    Engaging in ongoing professional learning, using evidence to continually evaluate practice, and adapting to meet the needs of each learner.

    My artifacts: Artifacts aligned to this standard will be linked here as the program progresses. First candidates: reflective work across ED 501 and clinical practice documentation.

  10. Professional Responsibility

    Leadership and Collaboration

    Seeking leadership roles and opportunities to collaborate with learners, families, colleagues, and the community to ensure learner growth.

    My artifacts: Artifacts aligned to this standard will be linked here as the program progresses. First candidates: work from ED 507 and ED 508 — Teaching Practice & Proficiency.

Standards in action

See how these milestones shaped my very first reflection, back at the trailhead.

Read the ED 501 reflection