The Instructional Learning Environment in a play-based Kindergarten has three critical learning phases: Whole Group Instruction where the teacher links the instructional purpose of various lessons to the current unit of study/standards using gradual learning release of “I do (model new learning), We do (use students to model the new learning), You do (giving time for students to practice through a variety of applications). Learning Center Instruction is where students apply their knowledge and productively work with other students to build fluency and flexibility in key learning concepts. Independent Learning/Choice Centers are where the teacher can work individually to support students while the other students get to customize their learning through a variety of modalities with their peers. All three phases of early learning instruction are focused on the “learning tasks requiring students to engage intellectually, to think; some may involve productive struggle” (Framework for Teaching Cluster 4: Student Intellectual Engagement 1e; 2b/3a/3b/3c).
