The cognitive rigor of college and career readiness standards (CCRS) demand that students demonstrate different levels of thinking as categorized by Bloom's Revised Taxonomy and understand and use their depth of knowledge as designated by Webb's DOK Levels. However, what exactly is depth of knowledge? How do Webb's DOK Levels describe four different and deeper ways students and demonstrate their learning? Why is the DOK Wheel inaccurate? In this session, participants will learn how depth of knowledge clarifies the cognitive demand of academic standards, activities, and assessments. They will also learn how Webb's DOK Levels can be used as a multi-tiered system of support for delivering instruction, responding to intervention, extending learning, and making modifications for students who receive and require specialized services and support to achieve and surpass grade-level goals and expectations.
Erik M. Francis, M.Ed., M.S. is an international author, presenter, and speaker with over 25 years of experience in education. He is the author of two books: Deconstructing Depth of Knowledge: A Method and Model for Deeper Teaching and Learning published by Solution Tree International and Now THAT'S a Good Question! How to Promote Cognitive Rigor Through Classroom Questioning published by ASCD Erik is the owner of Maverik Education, providing academic professional development and consultation to K-12 schools, colleges, and universities on developing rigorous learning environments and delivering educational experiences that challenge students to demonstrate different levels of thinking and understand and use their depth of knowledge (DOK) in different contexts. He is also ranked consistently as one of the World's Top 30 Education Professionals by the research organization Global Gurus.