Criteria for Success Action Template

This is a resource document for the video: Clarity: Framing the Learning: Criteria for Success

This video further extends the Framing the Learning discussion by introducing the criteria for success. Criteria for success are the qualities that must be present for performances and products to meet the standards and be deemed successful. In this video, Katie Nichol and her second grade class develop a list of criteria that describe a successful pictograph.

She presents the objective in kid-friendly language and makes sure they understand it prior to establishing the criteria. The criteria are recorded on a chart. When the students go to work on their own pictograph they are asked to self-evaluate as they go whether the criteria are being met. She coaches individuals through self-evaluation as they complete their pictographs, then later, back on the rug, she has them describe what steps they still need to do to be successful. Note how she uses the language of positive expectations throughout (you can do it!).

Consider the following activities for application of this video's content:

Have teachers view this clip and discuss the applicability of using these steps in their content area.
Distribute a copy of the Criteria for Success Action Template to each teacher. Have them complete it independently and then pair up for additional feedback and support.
For more information refer to pp. 168, 376-378, and 438-440 in The Skillful Teacher.