What is an exemplar?

An Exemplar is a lesson designed by one or more teachers and meets the following standards:

1. The lesson is described in writing according to the Exemplar Format (PDF, 90 Kb);
   
   
2. The content of the lesson is clearly stated and aligned with curriculum and state standards;
   
   
3. In addition to Content and Substance and to Organization of Knowledge, some or all of the other Design Qualities (PDF, 15 Kb) are embedded in the lesson;
   
   
4. The lesson has been reviewed and analyzed by collegial friends, using the WOW Protocol (PDF, 116 Kb) to assess the Design Qualities and to provide support and suggestions for improvement of the lesson;
   
   
5. The lesson has been taught to a group of students, and the Results and Reflections sections have been completed (Exemplars may be submitted to the WOW Protocol analysis before they are taught to students, if teachers have the opportunity to do so).

Exemplars do not claim to be the "best" lessons, but they are excellent examples of how teachers design lessons with rigorous content while attending to engagement-related qualities that result in greater student commitment and achievement.

We have solicited exemplars from teachers in our client districts that were willing to post their work on the internet. They have agreed to share their work as examples. If you have questions about exemplars, please contact Darlene Settles.

Exemplars