Coaching Unpacked: Episode 8 - Performance Rehearsal

In this episode, Chris, Sarah, and Adam dive into the powerful world of performance rehearsal in instructional coaching. What makes rehearsal such a vital tool for teacher development? And how can something that feels so awkward - like standing up and saying the same line again and again - lead to meaningful classroom change?

Sarah opens by explaining the difference between performance and planning rehearsal, and how the research shows its potential to build stronger mental models. Adam highlights new findings from Mancenido et al. (2023), showing that practice-based pedagogies improve responsiveness and can harness the benefits of deliberate practice when done right.

Read the study here: Mancenido et al. (2023)

Listeners hear a live example of a coaching session where Adam supports Sarah in rehearsing a “cold call” technique. Step by step, Adam scaffolds Sarah through initial nerves, provides just-in-time feedback, and gradually adds complexity, transforming a simple question into a high-leverage classroom move.

Key takeaways:

• How to scaffold rehearsal so teachers feel supported, not exposed

• The power of “go again” in habit formation

• When and how to add complexity for deeper learning

• How rehearsal builds the muscle memory needed for real classroom change

• Chris wraps up by reflecting on how rehearsal can reduce overload and boost teacher confidence. And don’t miss the teaser for the next episode: planning rehearsal for explanations and questioning.

  Whether you’re a coach, leader, or teacher interested in getting better faster, this episode is a must-listen.