To get the full impact of Direct Instruction (DI), schools should use DI as the core program within each subject, not alongside other instructional programs. Instructional time is limited, and adding additional programs reduces time for DI and can slow student progress.

Consistency matters. DI teaches explicit, carefully sequenced strategies. Mixing in other instructional approaches can confuse students, especially younger and at-risk learners, and make it harder for them to master skills.

What’s acceptable:

• use of the materials doesn’t take time away from DI,
• the materials aren’t used to teach concepts or skills, and
• students can perform at 100% mastery on the materials independently.

If students need teaching to use those materials, they are no longer practice, they compete with DI.

For educators: Using multiple programs also increases complexity, requires more training and planning, and reduces clarity about what works. DI programs are designed to meet the needs of all learners when implemented fully.

Bottom line: The strongest results come from a focused, consistent, and undiluted DI implementation.