See the Bar to Reach the Bar Part 2

Part 2: 6 things to plan for when using exemplars with anyone

In part 1, I introduced how people react emotionally to exemplars.

To effectively use exemplars as tools for growth, it’s important to move beyond initial emotional reactions and engage with them thoughtfully. I have included an example from the field demonstrating how to apply exemplars within a single session on close reading within the StudySync curriculum (McGraw-Hill). This approach can also be applied with students.

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1. Reframe Mindsets

• From Comparison to Curiosity: Shift from “How do I measure up?” to “What can I learn?” This removes ego and fosters a growth-oriented perspective.

• Focus on the Process, Not Perfection: Recognize that exemplars show the outcome of sustained effort and refinement. They’re meant to guide, not to demand replication.

Example from the field: Today, for our staff meeting, we are reviewing the exemplar lesson plan for the close read in StudySync. Before we begin, write down one challenge that you are having with close reading.

I want to caution you about jumping to comparison or quick judgment, but approach this with curiosity. We aim for progress, not perfection, especially in our first year of implementation. As you read, ask yourself, what can I integrate into my own practice? Rather than what you should be doing. I am not here to should on you… I am here to present the bar that we will approach with curiosity.

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2. Deconstruct the Exemplar

• Look for Patterns: What consistent features make the exemplar successful? Break it into key elements like structure, clarity, or technique.

• Start With Specifics: Identify one aspect to focus on first.

• Ask Guiding Questions:

  • What makes this effective?

  • How does this address common challenges?

  • What principles can I extract and adapt?

Example from the field: Now that we have had a chance to review the exemplar, let’s break it down. Let’s start with the what happens before they write during a close read lesson. What do you notice about what makes just that part effective?

1. Vocabulary

2. Essential question

3. Skills focus question 1

4. Independent completion of prompt

What are some of the critical teacher actions during the essential question?

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3. Adapt, Don’t Adopt

• Personalize the Strategy: Consider how the exemplar applies to your context. You don’t need to replicate; you must innovate within your framework.

• Leverage Your Strengths: The exemplar complements your unique teaching/leading style or skill set.

Example from the field: At the beginning of this session, you wrote down a challenge you were having with close reading. Now, you will take 5 minutes to think about applications within your classroom. Think about how you can solve the problem you identified. Use the list we developed about effective close read components to set a priority area.

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4. Embrace Iteration

• Prototype and Test: Try out one element of the exemplar in your practice and evaluate its impact.

• Reflect and Revise: Use feedback loops (self-reflection, peer input, or student outcomes) to refine your approach.

Examples from the field: It’s time to practice! Go ahead and prepare your next close read lesson, using StudySync. Review the lesson plan and script out the portion that you are going to emphasize and get reading to practice.

Now that you have practiced, use the feedback prompts and the list we created, give feedback to your practice partner.

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5. Find the Bridge Between You and the Exemplar

• Identify Your Starting Point: Acknowledge where you’re at in your learning journey and set realistic goals for progress.

• Use Exemplars as Benchmarks, Not Endpoints: Instead of striving to “become” the exemplar, aim to build your own “magic” through small, actionable steps inspired by the approach.

Example from the field: I appreciated everyone’s hard work today. This time was just the starting point. Set a goal for yourself: What will close reading look like by the end of the week to get you closer to the exemplar we examined today? How do you make this your own?

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6. Normalize the Emotional Process

• Expect Resistance: Feeling overwhelmed or inadequate is part of growth. Recognize these emotions and work through them instead of avoiding exemplars altogether.

• Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge small wins as you incorporate what you’ve learned, even if it initially feels imperfect.

Example from the field: In today's practice, I saw Ms. Johnson focus her energy on the collaborative discussion using the StudySync TV as a model. This happens BEFORE they write. I think many of us had been skipping this section and I appreciate Ms. Johnson leaning in and trying it out today. Don’t worry if you are not yet there. Writing is the MOST important part of the close reading lesson, so if you focus on it, you will make a difference for your students.

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Questions to Guide Effective Engagement With Exemplars

1. What’s one thing I can take away from this exemplar and try immediately?

2. What challenges do I foresee in applying this to my context, and how can I address them?

3. How can I connect this exemplar to what I’m already doing well?

4. What feedback loops can I use to ensure I’m progressing?