The Highly Effective Teaching model, HET for short, is a brain-compatible model grounded in the biology of learning, effective instructional strategies, and the development of conceptual curriculum. Formerly known as ITI (Integrated Thematic Instruction) and developed thirty years ago, the HET Model has been successfully replicated nationally in educational institutions serving rural, urban, and suburban communities. It includes proven strategies and methods for student learning, teaching, and administrative management. Independent research has provided evidence of significant gains in student achievement using the Highly Effective Teaching Model.

The Highly Effective Teaching (HET) Model provides a way of conceptualizing the orchestration of a BodybrainCompatible learning environment by implementing the science of learning (how the brain learns) and its implications within the classroom for schoolwide improvement. Originally developed by Susan J. Kovalik as the ITI (Integrated Thematic Instruction) Model and continually updated, the Highly Effective Teaching Model is currently used in hundreds of school districts across the United States and locations throughout the world. Regardless of the language, culture, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status of the student community, its outcomes are the same: quantum leaps in student achievement and a lifelong love of learning.

The HET Model information is copyright protected. © Susan Kovalik/The Center for Effective Learning. All rights reserved.

Introduction to the Highly Effective Teaching (HET) Model Parent Informational Handbook. HET is a comprehensive, research-based approach designed to align teaching strategies with how the brain learns best. It focuses on building responsible citizens and creating an environment that supports deep, meaningful learning. Our school implements the HET model to foster holistic development in every student.

This guide will introduce you to the key components of HET and how we apply them in the classroom to support your child's academic and social-emotional growth.

The Three Pillars of the HET Model

The HET model is structured around three core pillars:

1. Growing Responsible Citizens: We focus on nurturing responsible, community-minded students. We nurture these skills through the use of social action projects.  2. Five Learning Principles guide our instructional strategies to support effective learning. 3. Brain-compatible elements: These elements help create an optimal learning environment that is aligned with brain functioning, making education a fulfilling experience.

Body-brain Compatible Elements in the Classroom

To support your child's development, we implement several Body-brain Compatible Elements: Absence of Threat/Nurturing Reflective Thinking: We create a safe, supportive space free from threats, encouraging students to reflect on their learning.

• Sensory-Rich "Being There Experiences” (BTEs): Real-world, hands-on activities allow students to engage deeply with their learning.
• Meaningful Content: We connect learning materials to student interest and real-life experiences.
• Enriched Environment: Our classrooms are designed with spaces for collaboration, exploration, and movement to support engagement.
• Movement to Enhance Learning: Physical movement is integrated into lessons to boost memory and cognitive function.
• Choices: Students are given options to demonstrate their understanding, fostering independence.
• Adequate Time: We ensure students have enough time to grasp concepts fully.
• Collaboration: Students work together on projects to enhance communication and teamwork.
• Immediate Feedback: Teachers provide timely feedback to guide student learning.
• Mastery: We emphasize applying knowledge in real-world situations to promote lasting understanding.

Conceptual Curriculum with HET Principles

Our curriculum is designed around these key components:

2. Sensory-Rich Experiences: We use hands-on activities, BTEs, and simulations to make learning engaging and memorable.
3. Organizing Concept: Learning is structured around central themes that span multiple subjects, fostering critical thinking and cross-disciplinary connections.
4. Key Points include conceptual, knowledge, and skill-based elements essential for student success.
5. Inquiries: Students explore topics through inquiry-based learning, encouraging independent investigation.
6. Social/Political Action: Learning is applied to real-world issues, helping students understand the impact of their education on the community.

We also use traditional curriculum in mathematics and language arts. 

Lifelong Guidelines and Lifeskills

We believe in character education and support the development of core values through our Lifelong Guidelines, which we also refer to as PARTTS:

• Personal Best: To do one’s best given the circumstances and available resources
• Active Listening: To listen with the intention of understanding what the speaker intends to communicate
• Respect/No Put-Downs: To never use words, actions, and/or body language that degrade, humiliate, or dishonor others
• Trustworthiness: To be honest about things and feelings with oneself and others
• Truthfulness: To be honest about things and feelings with oneself and others
• Safety: Keeping ourselves and others safe through our words and actions

The Lifeskills provide a comprehensive framework for students to develop personal and interpersonal skills essential for success in school and beyond. These skills build on the foundation of the Lifelong Guidelines and focus on fostering social-emotional learning, critical thinking, and responsible citizenship. Each LIFESKILL is explicitly taught, modeled, and reinforced throughout the school experience to promote student overall character development and academic success.

• Caring: Demonstrating empathy and concern for others by recognizing and responding to their needs. Caring encourages positive relationships and a sense of community.

• Common Sense: Applying sound judgment and making practical decisions in everyday situations. Common sense involves critical thinking and problem-solving in real-world contexts.

• Cooperation: Working effectively and harmoniously with others to achieve shared goals. Cooperation develops teamwork, communication, and the ability to resolve conflicts peacefully.

• Courage: Facing challenges, risks, and fears with confidence and determination. Courage involves standing up for what is right and making difficult decisions despite uncertainty or fear.

• Creativity: Using imagination and innovation to generate new ideas or solutions. Creativity encourages thinking outside the box and finding original approaches to problems.

• Curiosity: Demonstrating a desire to explore, ask questions, and seek new information. Curiosity fuels a love of learning and encourages students to be lifelong learners.

• Effort: Applying hard work and perseverance to complete tasks and meet goals. Effort teaches students the value of diligence and persistence in achieving success.

• Flexibility: Adapting to new situations, challenges, and changes with an open mind. Flexibility fosters resilience and the ability to adjust strategies as circumstances evolve.

• Friendship: Building and maintaining positive, supportive, and respectful relationships with others. Friendship encourages trust, kindness, and effective communication in social interactions.

• Initiative: Taking responsibility for one’s learning and actions by being proactive and self-directed. The initiative promotes independence and leadership in pursuing goals and solving problems.

• Integrity: Acting with honesty, ethics, and moral responsibility in decisions and behaviors. Integrity fosters trust, respect, and credibility in personal and professional relationships.

• Organization: Managing time, tasks, and materials efficiently and effectively. Organization skills help students prioritize responsibilities, plan ahead, and meet deadlines.

• Patience: Demonstrating tolerance and self-control in challenging or delayed situations. Patience teaches perseverance and the ability to stay calm and composed under pressure.

• Perseverance: Persisting through difficulties, setbacks, or obstacles to achieve a goal. Perseverance builds grit, determination, and the willingness to keep going despite adversity.

• Pride: Taking satisfaction in one’s accomplishments and striving for excellence. Pride fosters self-confidence and a sense of personal achievement.

• Problem-Solving: Using analytical thinking and creative strategies to find solutions to challenges. Problem-solving encourages students to think critically and make reasoned decisions.

• Resourcefulness: Making use of available resources creatively and effectively to solve problems or accomplish tasks. Resourcefulness promotes adaptability and innovation.

• Responsibility: Being accountable for one’s actions, decisions, and obligations. Responsibility emphasizes reliability, self-discipline, and the importance of following through on commitments.

• Sense of Humor: Maintaining a positive attitude and using humor to reduce stress and build social connections. A sense of humor promotes emotional resilience and strengthens relationships.

These Lifeskills guide students in developing the habits and attitudes necessary for success in school, relationships, and life. These skills contribute to a well-rounded character and prepare students to navigate challenges, collaborate effectively, and engage meaningfully with the world around them.

Recognizing Multiple Intelligences:

We recognize that every child learns differently. Based on Howard Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligences, we design instruction to cater to various intelligences, including linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal, naturalistic, and existential. This allows every student to thrive by using their unique strengths.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the HET model? The Highly Effective Teaching (HET) model is an approach to education that aligns teaching methods with how the brain learns. It emphasizes brain-compatible elements, real-world learning experiences, and developing responsible citizens.

2. How does HET benefit my child? HET creates a safe, engaging, and meaningful learning environment, helping students deeply understand and apply what they learn. It also fosters emotional intelligence, social skills, and character development.

3. How are sensory-rich experiences incorporated into lessons? We design activities that engage all the senses, such as hands-on projects, simulations, field trips, and guest speakers. These experiences help students connect abstract concepts to real-world scenarios.

4. How does HET address different learning styles? The HET model leverages Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences, providing various learning opportunities that cater to linguistic, logical, kinesthetic, and other intelligences.

5. How do you ensure students feel safe and supported in the classroom? We focus on creating a threat-free environment where students feel emotionally and physically safe. This allows them to reflect on their learning, explore freely, and engage without fear of failure.

6. How do collaboration and movement play a role in learning? We encourage group work to build teamwork and social skills. Movement is integrated into the school day and lessons to enhance focus, memory, and cognitive development.

7. How can I support my child’s learning at home? You can support your child by discussing their school projects, encouraging inquiry-based thinking, and promoting the Lifelong Guidelines and LIFESKILLS.

8. How is feedback provided to my child? Teachers provide immediate, constructive feedback during lessons, helping students adjust and improve in real-time. This approach enhances understanding and ensures continuous learning.

9. What is the role of character education in the HET model? Character education is a core part of HET. We teach and model values like trustworthiness, truthfulness, and respect, which help students grow into responsible citizens.

10. Will HET help my child develop critical thinking skills? Absolutely! Through inquiry-based learning and problem-solving activities, students are encouraged to ask questions, think critically, and explore solutions to complex issues such as social action projects.

Thank you for supporting your child's education and participating in our community. For further information, contact your child’s teacher or the school office. Together, we can foster a rich learning environment that promotes lifelong learning and responsible citizenship.