Learn About Direct Instruction
Watch the video playlists below to learn the fundamentals of Direct Instruction (DI) and what makes an Authentic DI program.
Introduction to Direct Instruction
This nine-part introduction covers a range of topics addressing the fundamentals of DI. Designed to provide information relevant to individuals new to DI, topics include:
- What is Direct Instruction?
- What Are the Direct Instruction Programs?
- What Are the Direct Instruction Program Components?
- How Are Students Assessed in the DI Programs?
- What Directions Are Included in the Teacher Presentation Books?
- What is the Comprehensive Direct Instruction Model?
- What is the Research Base for Direct Instruction?
- What Training and Support are Available for Implementing DI?
- How Do I Get Started with Direct Instruction?
Each video is only about two to five minutes long, providing a succinct introduction to each topic.
Intro to DI Series
4:45
4:10
2:12
5:31
3:50
4:21
1:57
3:16
4:58
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
How Are Students Assessed in the Direct Instructon 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.
What Directions Are Included in the Teacher Presentation Book?
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.
Watch to learn how teachers use signals, scripts, and strategies to deliver lessons with precision.
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.
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
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.
Learn more about NIFDI Services, or fill out our contact form.
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? Check out our Implementation and Services pages or fill out our contact form!
Authentic Direct Instruction
In this playlist, you will find videos on the Origins of Authentic Direct Instruction, as well as tips for finding and teaching authentic DI programs.
- Origins and Critical Elements of Authentic Direct Instruction
- Overview of Authentic DI Programs for Literacy
- Overview of Authentic DI Programs for Math
- Introduction to Teaching Authentic Direct Instruction (two-video series)
Authentic DI
1:01:32
1:16:02
1:12:51
1:32:55
1:33:37
An Overview of Authentic Direct Instruction Math Programs
Join NIFDI Consultant Jaritza Alecon for an engaging and informative session on Direct Instruction (DI) numeracy programs. Perfect for newcomers or seasoned educators, this webinar covers the basics of authentic DI programs, including their audiences, uses in general and special education, program sequencing, and implementation schedules.
Questions answered will include:
- How does one decide whether to use Corrective Math or Connecting Math Concepts?
- When to use DISTAR Arithmetic I vs. Connecting Math Concepts Level A.
- When should one begin using Essentials for Algebra?
- Is there a fast-track for any of the programs?
And much more!
Click here to download the accompanying session materials.
Original broadcast February 13, 2026
Introduction to Teaching Authentic DI – Part 1
This two-part webinar is designed for participants with little or no knowledge or experience with Authentic Direct Instruction programs. Viewers will learn the rationale for the DI curricula and the underlying principles of design.
While this presentation will not prepare participants to teach a specific Direct Instruction program, viewers will receive a model of selected delivery features and participate in some brief practice activities. Some of the basic delivery features common to most DI programs are:
- Setting-up Instruction
- Signaling
- Correcting Errors
- Motivating Students
- Maintaining Attention
- Pacing of Presentation
- Recording Student Progress
Click here to download the accompanying session materials.
Original broadcast February 10, 2021
Introduction to Teaching Authentic DI – Part 2
This two-part webinar is designed for participants with little or no knowledge or experience with Authentic Direct Instruction programs. Viewers will learn the rationale for the DI curricula and the underlying principles of design.
While this presentation will not prepare participants to teach a specific Direct Instruction program, viewers will receive a model of selected delivery features and participate in some brief practice activities. Some of the basic delivery features common to most DI programs are:
- Setting-up Instruction
- Signaling
- Correcting Errors
- Motivating Students
- Maintaining Attention
- Pacing of Presentation
- Recording Student Progress
Click here to download the accompanying session materials.
Original broadcast February 17, 2021