Pages tagged backwarddesign:

Backward Design
http://www.greece.k12.ny.us/instruction/ELA/6-12/BackwardDesign/Overview.htm

What is "Backward Design?" A process by which constructivist and inquiry theories support student learning. Using the principles of backward design, teachers focus first on learning goals (understanding goals). These are based on the transferable big Ideas that give the content meaning and connect skills and facts. And this is what educators want their students to have developed at the completion of the learning process.
Backward design begins with the end in mind: What enduring understandings do I want my students to develop? How will my students demonstrate their understanding when the unit is completed? How will I ensure that students have the skills and understand the concepts required on the summative assessment?
excellent site, steps, FAQ
Much information about reading and writing, includes ideas for thematic units and essential questions.