Planning With the End in Mind
Introduction to the Planning with the End in Mind

Planning with the end in mind ensures that teaching and assessment are intentionally aligned. By starting with clear learning outcomes, teachers design assessment and instruction that accurately reflect curricular intent and support meaningful learning for all students.

This section supports an understanding of:

Clarifying the Learning Destination
Teachers develop a shared and accurate understanding of student learning outcomes. Learning destinations are unpacked through collaboration, exemplars, and student-friendly language so both teachers and students know where learning is headed.

Aligning Assessment and Instruction
Assessment and instructional decisions are guided by the learning outcomes. Teachers intentionally select assessment methods, teaching strategies, and resources that align with the intended learning, ensuring coherence across the learning process.

Designing with Learners in Mind
Teachers consider the strengths, needs, and variability of learners when planning assessment and instruction. Learning experiences are designed to be responsive and inclusive, supporting access, engagement, and success for all students.

The Dimensions of Planning with the End in Mind

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Planning with the End in Mind: Assessment in Action Videos
This video series explores the strategic process of Planning with the End in Mind, shifting the focus from simply “covering content” to intentionally designing for student success. By showcasing collaborative practices and classroom examples, these videos demonstrate how to clarify the learning destination, providing both teachers and students with a transparent map of where they are headed. We examine how to align learning outcomes, instructional choices, and assessment methods to ensure every classroom activity is purposeful. Finally, the series highlights how to design with unique learner strengths in mind, creating responsive and inclusive experiences that support every student’s success from the very start.
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In-Depth Study of Planning with the End in Mind

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AAC Members Only Content

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AAC Members Only Content

Note: This content area is available to AAC Members Only. Please login or learn more about Membership.