Instructional Coherence Model

The Michigan Department of Education (MDE) is committed to putting Students First by using an Instructional Coherence Model to drive resources and support to the field. The desire is to ensure students experience a seamless learning experience throughout their school day, across grade levels, and in all content areas.

MDE's Instructional Coherence Model uses a three-legged stool to show to is only possible when all three legs are fully functioning, as all three are integral to effective teaching and learning.

Every learner's experience is shaped by how well systems work together. Instructional coherence brings a shared goal, aligned curriculum, instruction, and assessment, and coordinated systems into alignment to support consistent, high-quality learning experiences. When this happens, learning is experienced as connected, meaningful, and rigorous across classrooms, schools, and districts (Council of Chief State School Officers [CCSSO], 2026).

This page defines each component of the Instructional Coherence Model, and provides access to the content areas, programs, and initiatives that OCI supports. Program links at the bottom of this page provide more detail about the alignment to the model.

Shared Goal

Every learner experiences high-quality instruction that is rigorous, relevant, and engaging, and that develops the knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed for postsecondary education, careers, and life. This shared goal guides decisions related to curriculum, instruction, assessment, and coordinated systems across Michigan (CCSSO, 2026). In Michigan, the Profile of a Graduate can help show the desired skills for learners that graduate from Michigan public schools.

Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment

Instructional coherence is most visible in the alignment of curriculum, instruction, and assessment. Together, these elements form the instructional core. High-quality instructional materials support grade-level learning, instruction promotes sensemaking, reasoning, and discourse, and assessment provides meaningful evidence to guide next steps for learners and educators (CCSSO, 2026).

Coordinated Systems

Coherence is sustained through coordinated systems that support implementation across schools and districts. Leadership, professional learning, Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), data use, and family and community engagement work together to reinforce the instructional core and ensure that high-quality teaching and learning are not left to chance (CCSSO, 2026; TNTP, 2023).