Ron Berger has been an inspiration to show what students can do if we expect excellence, surround them with quality examples, create regular critiques where students and outside experts play a significant role, and provide the opportunity to make the work better. This is one of the new classics — a video that models what quality critique and feedback looks like.
Berger described the power of a culture that supports learners in the production of quality work.
“Work of excellence is transformational. Once a student sees that he or she is capable of quality, of excellence, that student is never quite the same. There is a new self-image, a new notion of possibility. There is an appetite for excellence. After students have had a taste of excellence, they’re never quite satisfied with less.”

Reflect …
- What does excellence look, sound, and feel like in your classroom?
- How have you created these opportunities for revision in your classroom?
- What is a primary barriers to achieving this?
Would love to hear your thoughts!