“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.
Ultimately, teachers have the final say in the classroom. But when they share some ownership with students, they create a true community of learners and reap benefits for themselves. Expert Barbara Blackburn shares three ideas about building student ownership.
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.”
The Genius Hour Guidebook by Denise Krebs & Gallit Zvi provides a practical guide for teachers who want to encourage students to pursue their passionate interests and expand their 21st century skill set. Reviewer Laura Von Staden also recommends the companion website.
Middle school is SO spontaneous. How can teachers ensure opportunities to help students think critically, collaborate, and engage in the scholarly discourse we put in the lesson plan? Libby Woodfin shares 3 “ABCs of deeper instruction” that can help. Videos too!
Book Reviews / Social & Emotional Learning
by MiddleWeb · Published 08/25/2016 · Last modified 11/23/2019
Gifted children’s intense behaviors sometimes create challenges in the classroom. Author Christine Fonseca gives teachers, parents and students coping strategies and coaching approaches. Teacher Amy Estersohn says the book is also a good choice for PTA book clubs.
For teachers who have considered implementing a Genius Hour program but haven’t quite made it to launch, passion-based learning experts and #geniushour chat leaders Gallit Zvi and Denise Krebs have organized a wealth of tips and resources to get you started.
Transformational leaders know how to invite conversation and listen deeply, writes middle school assistant principal Mike Janatovich. They use this skill to grasp and understand a school culture, building trust and helping shape a successful school community.
Teachers beginning to think about how they can bring the world into their classroom will find that Mastering Global Literacy gives them helpful frameworks for understanding why teaching global competence to students is important, says ESL expert Susan Schwartz.
Chat Groups / Two Teachers in the Room
by Elizabeth Stein · Published 08/15/2016 · Last modified 11/15/2019
The Twitter chat group #coteachat offers co-teachers across the spectrum “topics galore, boundless support, and ongoing learning,” writes founder Elizabeth L. Stein, who has details about how to join the twice-monthly chats and a link to the complete archives.
