A structured 3-session instructional coaching cycle based on Jim Knight's Impact Cycle (Identify → Learn → Improve). Designed for 1:1 coaching with a teacher or adult learner over 2–4 weeks. Each session is 45–60 minutes.
Session 1 — Identify: Establish Current Reality
Open with a brief check-in. Ask: 'How are things going in your classroom right now?' Build psychological safety before looking at data. Reference Jim Knight's Partnership Principle: 'We are equals in this conversation.'
Session 1 — Identify: Review Student Learning Data
Review data together — formative assessments, observation notes, student work samples. Ask: 'When you look at this data, what do you notice? What surprises you?' Avoid interpreting for the teacher; ask questions that help them see the current reality clearly.
Session 1 — Identify: Set a Student-Focused Goal
Collaboratively craft a PEERS goal (Powerful, Easy to understand, Emotionally compelling, Reachable, Student-focused). Ask: 'If everything went perfectly, what would students be doing differently in 4 weeks?' The teacher should drive the goal — not the coach.
Session 2 — Learn: Identify a High-Leverage Strategy
Share 1–3 high-leverage instructional strategies connected to the goal. Use a video, model, or written description. Ask: 'Which of these feels most connected to what you want to achieve?' Respect teacher choice — the teacher selects the strategy.
Session 2 — Learn: Model and Practice the Strategy
Model the strategy together using role play, video analysis, or co-planning. Then the teacher practices. Debrief: 'What felt natural? What would you adjust?' Keep the atmosphere low-stakes and focused on learning, not evaluation.
Session 2 — Learn: Closing & Implementation Plan
Confirm the teacher's plan for implementing the strategy before Session 3. Ask: 'What support do you need from me between now and next time?' Agree on what data to collect during implementation.
Session 3 — Improve: Review Implementation Data
Open by celebrating that the teacher tried something new. Review the data they collected. Ask: 'What changed? What does the student data tell you?' Resist the urge to interpret — ask questions first.
Session 3 — Improve: Refine the Approach
Collaboratively analyze what's working and what needs adjustment. Ask: 'What would you keep? What would you change?' Identify 1–2 specific refinements. Reconnect to the original PEERS goal: are students moving in the right direction?
Session 3 — Improve: Celebrate & Plan Next Cycle
Name specific growth. Ask: 'What are you most proud of from this cycle?' Discuss whether to continue with this goal or shift to a new one. End with affirmation: coaching is about sustained, meaningful growth — not perfection.