Four groups read the e-book with a dictionary with (1) static visuals (SVs) without the printed focal words, (2) dynamic visuals (DVs) without the printed focal words, (3) SVs with the printed focal words, or (4) DVs with the printed focal words. The fifth group read the e-book without a dictionary (control). The results show that word explanations and word use progressed the most after reading the e-book with DVs and printed focal words. Less progress was observed when reading with SVs with printed focal words and DVs without printed focal words.

this conversational technique helps students think and talk about a text beyond its literal meaning

After four years at the charter school, eighth-graders showed average test score gains in math equal to an additional year and a half of school, compared with district students.

the charter has a lean administrative staff and slightly larger classes—31 students compared with an average of about 26 or 27 in district schools—so it can pour resources into teacher pay and training.

Groups that reviewed instructor notes performed best.

thinking about the information — paraphrasing rather than writing everything verbatim — improves retention

That means considering points as you take notes and connecting new ideas with information from earlier lectures.

VAMs typically measure correlation, not causation

statistical black box

These gains often turn out to be an achievement mirage

Three interconnected factors are as essential for whole-school achievement as knowing how to teach well: trust, collaboration, and authenticity.

professional learning is ongoing and embedded