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 — educator, principal, and author with over 40 years in the field. My work centres on building teacher capacity, future-focused learning design, and global curriculum thinking. I'm especially passionate about the teacher-as-researcher and have explored these ideas through books and journal articles. I'm always learning from the field as much as contributing to it.

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Author: Dr Jake Madden

I'm Jake Madden — educator, principal, and author with over 40 years in the field. My work centres on building teacher capacity, future-focused learning design, and global curriculum thinking. I'm especially passionate about the teacher-as-researcher and have explored these ideas through books and journal articles. I'm always learning from the field as much as contributing to it. View all posts by Dr Jake Madden