New Resource — The Framework for Teaching: Intellectual Engagement Guide is Now Available!

The Framework For Teaching

Our work is grounded in the Framework for Teaching (FFT), a common language for teachers and a vision of instructional excellence. Our resources support teacher professional learning across the career continuum – from pre-service teacher preparation through teacher leadership and beyond.

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The FFT provides a foundation for instructional practice, as well as a philosophical approach to understanding and promoting great teaching and learning. Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on Twitter to receive the latest updates and resources that will help you put the Framework to work. 

The FFT is an evolving instructional resource that provides a roadmap for effective teaching. It outlines 22 components and 76 elements organized into Four Domains of Teaching Responsibility. Over time, the FFT has evolved to reflect new learning in the field and meet the needs of today’s classrooms and students. 

We developed the Framework for Teaching Clusters (FFT Clusters) to reorganize the 22 components of the FFT by drawing attention to the big ideas that support student learning. This tool anchors comprehensive approaches to teacher growth including coaching, professional learning communities, self-assessment and reflection, and other essential practices. 

The components of the FFT can support teachers to develop practices and approaches that meet the needs of their context. We identified eight essential components from the FFT and a pathway that prioritizes student wellbeing, equity, and racial justice. Without a deep understanding of students’ identities and lives in the midst of these crises, we have little chance of meeting their needs.