Hands-on teaching has always involved kids in “making.” But today’s focus on maker spaces is pushing making to a whole new level, nurturing students’ curiosity and creativity. Anne Jolly shows how combining maker activities and STEM lessons can boost learning.
Mindful living leads to effective teaching and even artistry. After a career in education, Linda Mancia has realized that obstacles can be overcome with the simple faith in what we can learn – from our students, from each other, and especially from ourselves.
Did we say three? Let’s make it four! Here’s what to do: ✻ Visit Amber’s book page at Routledge Eye on Education. ✻ Then go to our homepage and subscribe (bottom of left column) to MiddleWeb’s monthly newsletter....
Teacher John Hunter’s book reveals the intricacies and impact of his famed (thanks to a top 100 TEDTalk) World Peace Game, a multi-layered challenge where students collaborate to solve 50 complex problems. Kevin Hodgson appreciates Hunter’s openness to inquiry.
Lindsay Kasten’s literacy based workbook provides teachers of gifted students from third to fifth grade with lessons and activities about Native Americans, inventions, nature, and struggle. Adaptable for all students, says 4th grade teacher Linda Biondi.
The presidential debates offer a unique portal to explore topics that are critically important in developing students’ media literacy skills and preparing them for responsible citizenship. Experts Frank W. Baker and Karen Zill provide an in-depth teaching guide.
Socio-economic bias / The Flexible Classroom
by Amber Chandler · Published 09/11/2016 · Last modified 11/26/2019
From failing to bring the required supplies to not being on time, Amber Chandler was quick to give negative grades to students who “lacked responsibility.” Until she encountered Nick. Today she’s more sensitive to the socio-economic challenges many students face.
“Transforming Schools” presents a proven school model built on project based learning and performance assessment, with advice from three leaders of Envision Schools on how to reinvent systems, reshape school culture, and navigate the inevitable challenges.
The Co-Teaching Relationship / Two Teachers in the Room
by Elizabeth Stein · Published 09/07/2016 · Last modified 11/14/2019
Are you ready to be a vital force in your co-teaching relationship this year? Instructional coach Elizabeth Stein borrows concepts from Vitalism to suggest ways co-teachers can build a more effective practice by relying on both traditional knowledge and intuition.
Future of History / Making History Meaningful
by Lauren S. Brown · Published 09/05/2016 · Last modified 12/11/2019
How do we overcome the perception that history is boring? Connecting the past directly to students’ life experiences is a flawed strategy, history educator Lauren Brown believes. Teachers should focus less on “relevant” and more on “meaningful” and “interesting.”
