Summit 7 Reflections by

Uses

2025-07-16 13:52:45 UTC

I use the Summit 7 to purposefully guide instructional planning in the PLC. Having the Summit 7 available during planning leads to more meaningful conversations in the classroom.

Pros

2025-07-16 13:54:04 UTC

Using the Summit 7 in the classroom ensures access to the curriculum for all students and grants access in various styles to meet the needs of all learners.

Using the Summit 7 increases engagement and learning. (Formative assessments, keep students on task, review, fun)

2025-07-16 13:55:03 UTC

2025-07-16 13:56:22 UTC

I utilize popsicle sticks and a roll sheets for calling on students. It keeps students on their toes knowing they may be next. To make sure they stay on their toes, I return their sticks back to the pile afterward.

I also combine structured reading and writing with sentence stems to ensure that I am getting the best possible written responses with their CERs.

???s

2025-07-16 13:56:45 UTC

Not necessarily a question but I’d like to get really solid at three of the seven and then add in more steps.

2025-07-16 13:57:04 UTC

On an individual basis to tailor each students education, so that I can ensure I am having engaging and meaningful interactions on a daily basis. My main four principles are 1, 2, 4 and 5. I want to learn how to implement 3, 6 and 7.

2025-07-16 13:57:48 UTC

I am accustomed to cold calling with the name wheel. It provides a level of accountability and allows different students to speak in class. I have used total response when introducing a concept which gives students a chance to self-assess which I think is important in the learning process. CERs with sentence stems also gives students the chance to think deeply about a concept beyond memorization.

2025-07-16 13:58:57 UTC

The summit 7 provides a baseline to work with even for the most novice of educators. It helps to keep everyone on the same page whilst providing consistency for the students.

Structured conversations-check for understanding and student engagement.

2025-07-16 14:00:07 UTC

Visuals and Vocabulary- preteach, clarify concepts, make connections to prior learning, phenomena

Uses

2025-07-16 14:00:20 UTC

I try to include at least 3 per lesson, especially in an ESL classroom. Clear instruction is critical.

#1- examples are always written on a side whiteboard for all to see

#2- sentence stems are crucial, included in slides where students can use or create their own

#3- I use the wheelofnames website works great

#4- whiteboards are always kept under desks

#5- videos/pictures to see vocabulary and concepts

#6 & #7- vary by lesson depending on which language domain we are focusing on

2025-07-16 14:00:31 UTC

Do you have other strategies that you can provide for structured conversations? I am still trying to find the right fit for my teaching style.

2025-07-16 14:00:57 UTC

These strategies increase the rigor in the classroom and allow communication and collaboration among the students and teacher. These strategies are student centered and help the teacher be a facilitator to drive learning instead of simply providing instruction.

Some positives I have seen from the summit 7 are increased verbal ques, nonverbal ques, improvement in vocabulary/ vocalization, improved transitions, more engagement from staff within the class when students independently communicate their needs.

2025-07-16 14:01:19 UTC

Principles 3 and 6 are hard for me to scaffold, what are some ways in which I can use these while still meeting my students where they are at?

2025-07-16 14:02:56 UTC

I will have to familiarize myself with the phrase poster. Are word walls required to fulfill strategy 5? Are sentence stems required for all assignments?

2025-07-16 14:03:45 UTC

Positives

2025-07-16 14:03:54 UTC

If a structured routine is used, students can get used to and build/gain confidence from the steps. They know what to do, how to use it, and even on an off day can still participate. Example- whiteboards under desks to answer individually or using the ‘what to say when you don’t know what to say’ complete sentences given to them.

2025-07-16 14:05:04 UTC

No questions, but I would like a menu of options for each strategy. :)

Qs

2025-07-16 14:06:33 UTC

No real questions, just understanding how to use them for each individual students takes time and knowledge of your students’ learning habits.