Specially Designed Academic Instruction in English (SDAIE) is a teaching style with these features:
Low Affective Filter
- error correction done in context through teacher modeling
- new information introduced and presented by the teacher in a way that engages student
Modified Speech
- slower speech rate
- clear enunciation
- controlled vocabulary
- use of cognates
- limited use of idiomatic speech
- words with double meaning defined
Contextual Clues
- gestures and facial expressions
- meaning acted out
- graphic organizers ( maps, charts, graphs
- realia, props and manipulatives
- word banks
- overhead transparencies and similar projection technologies
- bulletin boards
- audio-visual materials
- explanation of word origins ( etymology)
- use of examples and analogies
- hands on activities and demonstrations
Comprehension Checks
Formative Assessment
- confirmation checks
- clarification requests
- repetitions
- expansions
- variety of question types
- interaction: teacher: student student:teacher
Summative Assessment
- mastery assessed using a variety of modalities
- review of main topics and key vocabulary
- resulting product showse mastery of key concepts an synthesis of information
- written assessment appropriate for intermediate/ early advanced English language learners
Appropriate Lesson Design
- student fluency level is reflected
- evidence of scaffolding
- listening and speaking activities precede reading and writing activities
- reading assignments include prereading, during reading, postreading activities
- writing activities preceded by pre-writing
- vocabulary emphasis
- use of cooperative learning groups
- tapping prior knowledge/ personal application
- appropriate pacing
- modeling of activities
- specific learning strategies or study skills are taught and modeled
- evidence of text adaptation
- emphasis on higher order critical thinking skills
- provision of native language support
- extension/ debriefing activity included
Content Driven
- rigorous core curriculum (not 'watered down')
- key topics organized aournd main themes
- topics appropriate to grade level
see also education
