Teaching and learning in grades 4-8

Integrating Multiple Nonfiction Texts

Nurturing Informed Thinking is filled with practical and inspiring ideas to help students integrate multiple texts about a nonfiction topic. Both content area and ELA teachers will find this book a valuable resource, writes middle school educator Mary K. Marsh.

75 Ways to Be a Better Teacher Tomorrow

Annette Breaux and Todd Whitaker’s concise, tips-packed book is a quick read with strategies that can easily be implemented tomorrow, says teacher leader Laura Von Staden. Among her favorites: “Leave One Compliment a Day” and “Ask Yourself Five Questions.”

A Caring Principal’s Tips for Lawnmower Parents

Lawnmower parents have an irresistible urge to clear away all the stress and struggle for their children. The result, says principal and NBCT Rita Platt, can be kids who don’t learn to mow their own paths. Read her tips for parents, educators, and the kiddos themselves.

Introspective Questions to Amplify Your Leadership

Veteran principal and multi-book author Baruti Kafele takes school leaders on a self-reflective journey to answer his title question by exploring 35 focused and intentional guiding questions. Education leadership professor Frank J. Hagen recommends taking the trip.

Tapping the Power of Daily Student Writing

Write Think Learn is an easy read for busy educators, challenges teachers and students to examine their attitudes about writing, gives readers a purpose and a desire to write, and will be a go-to reference throughout the school year, says teacher educator Linda Biondi.

A Fresh Approach to Middle School Behavior

What mix of behavior strategies can build happier, higher achieving middle schools? Principal Michael Gaskell shares customized PBIS methods his New Jersey school uses to help students stay in school, develop positive mentor relationships, and achieve greater success.