Category: Book Reviews

A New Toolkit for Classroom Rigor

In Rigor in Your Classroom: A Toolkit for Teachers, Barbara Blackburn has really done her homework, says reviewer Laura Von Staden. It is well referenced, thoroughly investigated and succinct and features tools and resources from teachers across the country.

Making Science Relevant in the Middle Grades

William H. Robertson channels his unique perspective and experiences as a skateboarder and educator into a well-written, informative, and enjoyable read in Action Science: Relevant Teaching and Active Learning, says reviewer Hallie Askuvich.

How to Avoid CCSS Weak Teaching Advice

Reviewer Tyler McBride says the authors of Uncommon Core draw on research and their classroom experience to help teachers and administrators avoid some “absurd” teaching practices implied in the Common Core standards and get CCSS implementation right.

Independent Reading Can Boost Learning

Students benefit from reading independently if specific conditions are in place. In No More Independent Reading Without Support Debbie Miller and Barbara Moss share research-based strategies to enhance classroom practice and student learning.

Putting the Arts into Every Classroom

As arts education budgets shrink, K-8 educators will appreciate The Arts Go to School, says reviewer Jennifer Jankowski. Authors David Booth and Masayuki Hachiya offer creative ideas for incorporating arts into the daily curriculum across many subjects.

Nonfiction Lessons to Use Now

Nancy Akhavan builds her nonfiction strategies and routines into fully realized lessons to help students develop higher level comprehension across content areas, says reviewer Sandy Wisneski.