Apply the Selection Criteria

Learning Objectives
  • Discover the selection criteria elements
  • Review examples of applied selection criteria

Selection Criteria Elements

  • Curriculum Fit
  • Content
  • Social Considerations
  • Design
  • Personal Bias

Each of the elements will factor into the selection process. As you review, you may need to consider each one separately and in relation to all the criteria elements.

Two teachers thinking about the selection criteria as they review resources

Activity

Applying criteria is about finding answers to critical questions. Look at each criterion and jot down two or more questions you’d need to consider for each element. Discuss your questions with a colleague, if possible.

Here are some questions Focused ED’s evaluators consider when reviewing resources. How does your list compare?

  • How does this resource align with the Big Ideas, Curricular and Core Competencies, and Content in the B.C. curriculum?
  • Are the concepts and content presented with an appropriate level of complexity for the grade level and students I’m teaching

Appropriate:

  • Is the content appropriate for the emotional maturity, cognitive level, and lived experiences of my students?
  • Is the content engaging, accurate, and current for the intended curriculum and grade?

Flexible:

  • How easily will I be able to use the resource to differentiate for students’ needs?

Diverse:

  • How authentically does this resource represent varied perspectives, voices, and communities?

Balanced:

  • How will this resource add to the breadth and currency of resources that are being used in my classroom?

  • Do students see themselves and their life experiences reflected and validated in the learning materials?
  • Do students see their community and society at large reflected in the learning materials?
  • Do you understand your students, parents, and community well enough to know if the above criteria are met?

  • Does the resource promote the active engagement of the student?
  • Does the resource make effective use of the medium?
  • Does the resource contain overt advertising or promotional information?
  • For digital content delivery, is it device-agnostic and user-friendly?
  • Do instructional suggestions and assessment tools add value to the resource?

  • Do you always choose texts with similar characters or themes?
  • Are there topics or genres that you avoid based on your own preferences, cultural experiences, or comfort level?
  • Do you focus on online content and texts that match your personal and political beliefs, or do you provide a range of viewpoints?

Let’s look at how each of the selection criteria will inform your decision-making process.