Explicit Instruction: What It Is, Why It Works, and What It Looks Like in Practice

In classrooms, clarity matters.

When students are learning something new - whether it’s decoding unfamiliar words, solving multi-step problems, or understanding complex concepts - how instruction is delivered has a significant impact on outcomes.

Explicit instruction is a teaching approach grounded in decades of research. It focuses on clarity, structure, and purposeful practice, ensuring students are supported every step of the way.

Our new infographic summarizes the key features of explicit instruction and why it is so effective across year levels and learning areas.

Download the Explicit Instruction Infographic as PDF.

What Is Explicit Instruction?

Explicit instruction is a teacher-led approach where new content or skills are taught directly, clearly, and systematically.

Rather than assuming students will discover key ideas on their own, teachers:

• Explain concepts clearly

• Model what success looks like

• Guide students through practice

• Gradually release responsibility as students gain confidence

This approach reduces cognitive overload and helps students build accurate understanding from the start.

WHY EXPLICIT INSTRUCTION WORKS

Research consistently shows that explicit instruction

• Improves learning outcomes, particularly for new or complex content

• Benefits all learners, including those who struggle or are new to the language of instruction

• Supports retention through structured review and practice

• Makes learning expectations clear and achievable

By breaking learning into manageable steps and checking for understanding frequently, teachers can respond quickly and prevent misconceptions from taking hold.

What Explicit Instruction Looks Like in the Classroom

Effective explicit instruction typically follows a clear sequence:

1. Clear explanations using precise language
   

2. Teacher modelling (“I do”)
   

3. Guided practice with feedback (“We do”)
   

4. Independent practice (“You do”)
   

5. Ongoing review and checks for understanding 

This structure doesn’t limit thinking; it supports it, especially when students are building foundational knowledge.

Supporting All Learners

Explicit instruction is particularly powerful because it:

• Makes learning accessible and transparent

• Reduces reliance on guesswork

• Provides multiple opportunities to practise and succeed

When students know exactly what they are learning and how to do it, confidence and engagement grow.

Using the Infographic

This infographic can be used:

• In staff meetings or professional learning sessions

• As a shared language for instructional practice

• As a quick reference for lesson planning

It’s designed to make the research clear, practical, and classroom-relevant. 

Explicit instruction isn’t about rigid teaching, it’s about intentional teaching.

When clarity, structure, and practice are prioritized, students are better equipped to understand, apply, and retain what they learn.

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We’re rethinking what’s possible for reading instruction. With Readable English, teaching is grounded in clear, evidence-based practice so every student can learn with confidence and success.

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