Backward design is a framework that supports the development of effective instruction, ensuring that lessons are goal-driven, intentional and aligned with desired learning outcomes. Instead of planning lessons around activities first, backward design starts by identifying the end goals and then works backward to determine the best forms of assessment and instructional strategies.

This approach is particularly valuable in co-teaching environments where content and language specialists collaborate to meet all learner needs. A key challenge in this process is ensuring that long-term learners are given tasks that appropriately challenge their language skills without overwhelming them. Thoughtful planning helps create learning experiences that foster academic growth and language development.

Understanding the four-step BASE Framework

By following the BASE framework, educators can ensure that instruction is intentional, student-centered, and aligned with language and content goals.

1. B → Defining the Big ideas
2. A → Analyzing areas of difficulty
3. S → Creating Strategies and supports
4. E → Evaluating the process

This structured approach helps in planning meaningful learning experiences and fosters better collaboration between co-teachers. Even with limited planning time, BASE principles can provide structure and guidance for quick discussions or shared strategies to maximize student engagement and success.

Building a successful co-teaching plan

Co-teaching is often not fully part of the day-to-day process, leading to informal planning via hallway conversations or asynchronous collaboration. Despite these challenges, focusing on student interaction with language remains essential. Teachers can maximize their impact by ensuring students engage in meaningful discussions and collaborative learning experiences.

Successful co-teaching requires careful planning to align content and language objectives, define roles, and use both educators effectively. As co-teaching partnerships develop, teachers naturally synchronize, leading to seamless instruction where the distinction between content and language specialists becomes less visible.