How to Improve Instruction: Practical Tips for Teachers

Are you looking to improve instruction in the classroom? Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, refining your teaching practice can lead to stronger student outcomes and deeper engagement.

Improving instruction doesn’t require major overhauls. Instead, focus on small changes that build relationships, spark thinking, and support learning. Here are five strategies to help you do just that.

1. Create a Classroom Students Want to Be In

Classrooms should feel welcoming and energising. Students engage more when they feel safe, included, and motivated.

• Use colour, student work, or theme boards to personalise the space
• Include group tasks, projects, and independent activities
• Set routines that create structure and reduce anxiety

When students enjoy their environment, they’re more willing to learn.

2. Use Student-Centred Teaching Methods

Student-centred approaches promote ownership of learning.

• Encourage collaboration and inquiry
• Use technology to personalise learning
• Let students ask questions, lead, and present their thinking

These approaches help develop independence and critical thinking.

3. Include Creativity and Critical Thinking

Students learn deeply when they’re challenged to make, not just memorise.

• Ask open-ended questions that require analysis
• Use real-world problems, projects, and cross-disciplinary tasks
• Integrate STEM, the arts, and flexible tasks

Creative thinking fosters energy and deeper understanding.

4. Build Strong Relationships

Trust transforms instruction. When students know they’re supported, they engage more fully.

• Be approachable and show interest in their lives
• Listen with care and celebrate small wins
• Offer support and stay connected to student progress

Relationships build motivation and a sense of belonging.

5. Give Feedback That Moves Learning Forward

Feedback should help students improve, not just correct.

• Keep it clear, specific, and timely
• Focus on strengths and next steps
• Use check-ins, rubrics, or brief conferences

Quality feedback encourages reflection and continued effort.

Final Thoughts

Great teaching is a craft that grows with care, curiosity, and reflection. If you’re ready to improve instruction in the classroom, start small, be consistent, and keep the focus on students. Which of these strategies will you try this term?

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Dr Jake Madden

I’m Jake Madden (Dip Teach; B.Ed; Grad Dip: Leadership; M. Ed: Leadership; EdD; FACEL; MACE), and I’ve had the privilege of working in education for over thirty years as a teacher and principal. Throughout my career, I’ve focused on supporting teachers to build their capacity, developing learning approaches that respond to the needs of today’s world, creating flexible learning spaces for 21st-century learners, and designing curriculum that encourages global mindedness. I’m particularly passionate about the concept of teacher-as-researcher, and I’ve been fortunate to contribute to this area by sharing my experiences through books and journal articles. My work reflects what I’ve learned from leading and navigating educational change, and I’m always eager to continue learning from others in the field.

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Author: Dr Jake Madden

I’m Jake Madden (Dip Teach; B.Ed; Grad Dip: Leadership; M. Ed: Leadership; EdD; FACEL; MACE), and I’ve had the privilege of working in education for over thirty years as a teacher and principal. Throughout my career, I’ve focused on supporting teachers to build their capacity, developing learning approaches that respond to the needs of today’s world, creating flexible learning spaces for 21st-century learners, and designing curriculum that encourages global mindedness. I’m particularly passionate about the concept of teacher-as-researcher, and I’ve been fortunate to contribute to this area by sharing my experiences through books and journal articles. My work reflects what I’ve learned from leading and navigating educational change, and I’m always eager to continue learning from others in the field. View all posts by Dr Jake Madden