The 12 Touchstones of Good Teaching 
A Checklist for Staying Focused Every Day

Be Demanding - Articulate and Maintain High Expectations for Learning

• Item 1: I use standards to guide every learning opportunity

• Item 2: I ensure students set personal learning objectives for each lesson

• Item 3: I peel back the curtain and make my performance expectations clear

• Item 4: I measure understanding against high expectations

Be Supportive - Provide a Nurturing Learning Environment

• Item 5: I engage student interest with every lesson

• Item 6: I interact meaningfully with every student

• Item 7: I use feedback to encourage effort

• Item 8: I create an oasis of safety and respect in my classroom

Be Intentional - Know Why You're Doing What You're Doing

• Item 9: I make the most of every minute

• Item 10: I help students develop deep knowledge

• Item 11: I coach students to mastery

• Item 12: I help students do something with their learning

6 Essential C’s for Deep Knowledge

• Curiosity

• Connection

• Coherence

• Concentration

• Coaching

• Context