Video 1: What is Direct Instruction?

Direct Instruction is a research-based teaching methodology designed to help students master content faster and more effectively than traditional methods.

Developed by Professor Siegfried “Zig” Engelmann and colleagues in the 1960s–70s, DI is:

• Explicit – Teachers follow carefully designed scripts to deliver clear, faultless instruction.
• Systematic – Lessons build step-by-step, increasing in complexity as students’ progress.
• Individualized – Students are placed by skill level, not grade level, ensuring instruction meets them where they are.
• Mastery-Focused – Every student is supported to achieve mastery before moving on.

Through modeling, guided practice, immediate feedback, and consistent review, DI equips students to apply their learning confidently and independently.

Video 2: What are the Direct Instruction Programs?

In this video, we break down the three main types of DI programs:

• Developmental Programs – for elementary through high school, building strong foundations in reading, math, spelling, and writing.
• Remedial Programs – for students in grade 4 and higher, closing gaps in reading, writing, and math.
• Specialized Programs – for English learners and computer-based learning.

All DI programs are carefully designed, research-driven, and supported by placement testing to ensure students start at the right level.

*Video Update: Direct Instruction Spoken English (DISE) is now available through Educational Achievement Publishing.

Video 3: What are the Direct Instruction Program Components?

Ever wondered what comes with a Direct Instruction (DI) program? From Teacher Presentation Books (TPBs) and guides for teachers to student workbooks, textbooks, and blackline masters, each program is carefully designed to give both educators and students the tools they need for success.

In this video, we break down:

• The role of TPBs across grade levels
• How teacher guides support instruction
• Student materials for each stage of learning
• Additional resources that strengthen DI implementation

Video 4: How are Students Assessed in the Direct Instruction Programs?

Student Success Starts with the Right Placement & Assessment In Direct Instruction (DI), every student is placed at the exact level they need to succeed. From initial placement tests to ongoing mastery, cumulative, and checkout assessments, DI ensures students are always learning at their skill level and moving forward with confidence.

• Placement tests identify the right program and level for each student
• Mastery & cumulative tests track progress and ensure true skill development
• Checkouts provide ongoing checks for reading accuracy and fluency

At NIFDI, we provide schools with training, tools, and support to implement DI effectively, so every student has the chance to succeed.

Video 5: What Directions are Included in the Teacher Presentation Books?

From exact teacher wording and student responses to correction procedures and signals for choral responses, DI scripts are designed to make teaching clear, consistent, and effective.

Learn how teachers use signals, scripts, and strategies to deliver lessons with precision.

Video 6: What is the Comprehensive Direct Instruction Model?

What does it really take to implement Direct Instruction successfully? It’s more than just books and training; it’s a Comprehensive Direct Instruction Model that transforms schools from the inside out.

From flexible grouping and block scheduling to schoolwide behavior systems, data-driven decision-making, and ongoing teacher coaching, this model ensures every student is placed at the right level and supported to succeed.

In this video, we break down the core components of the Comprehensive DI Model and how they work together to accelerate student learning and eliminate confusion.

Video 7: What is the Research Base for Direct Instruction?

What does the research say about Direct Instruction (DI)?

Over 40 years of scientific studies confirm that DI helps students achieve more, learn faster, and build stronger confidence across all ages and backgrounds. From reading and language to math, the results are clear: Direct Instruction works.

• Explore the evidence
• Search hundreds of studies
• Deepen your knowledge of Direct Instruction

Video 8: What Training and Support Are Available for Schools Implementing Direct Instruction?

What Does it Take to Successfully Implement Direct Instruction in Schools?

It’s more than just a curriculum; it requires comprehensive training and ongoing support from experienced DI trainers and coaches. That’s where the National Institute for Direct Instruction (NIFDI) comes in.

From on-site coaching, placement assistance, and data analysis to virtual coaching, leadership academies, and specialized institutes for administrators and teachers, NIFDI equips schools with the tools and expertise needed to achieve lasting student success.

Video 9: How Do I Get Started with Direct Instruction?

If you’re wondering how to bring the proven power of Direct Instruction (DI) to your school, this video is the perfect place to begin!

• Learn the five essential steps for implementing DI successfully, from understanding the model and reviewing readiness, to receiving training and ongoing coaching support.
• Explore free online tutorials, success stories from real schools, and resources like Clear Teaching by Shepard Barbash.
• Discover how NIFDI partners with schools every step of the way, from your first introduction to DI through full implementation with fidelity.
• When schools partner with NIFDI, students thrive, and educators gain the support and confidence they need to make lasting change.

Interested in learning more about implementing Direct Instruction and NIFDI support? Fill out our contact form.