First Days of Math Class / Meaningful Math
by Michelle Russell · Published 08/14/2016 · Last modified 11/20/2019
Before planning her first lessons, math teacher Michelle Russell came up with her three teaching goals for the year. Most of all, she wants to strengthen her student relationships and make learning about math more fun. See the survey she did on Day One.
Book Reviews / English Language Learners
by MiddleWeb · Published 08/11/2016 · Last modified 11/16/2019
Larry Ferlazzo and Katie Hull-Sypnieski’s guide to implementing the common core with ELLs is a comprehensive “incredibly user-friendly” resource that projects care and respect for teachers, students, and the education profession as a whole, says teacher Rita Platt.
Book Reviews / Building Relationships
by MiddleWeb · Published 08/11/2016 · Last modified 11/19/2019
In Relationships That Work, authors Adam Sáenz and Jeremy Dew invite readers to write and reflect about the best ways to work with kids, parents and colleagues to help students learn. Math teacher Anthony Purcell found the counselors’ advice helpful.
Class Apps / Quick Communication
by Curtis Chandler · Published 08/07/2016 · Last modified 03/03/2024
With the goal of encouraging learning at school and beyond, Curtis Chandler describes two free tech tools to help get students and the school year off to a good start: Poll Everywhere will quickly spark discussion and the Remind app will keep everyone on track.
Book Reviews / Data-driven Instruction
by MiddleWeb · Published 08/03/2016 · Last modified 11/18/2019
Victoria L. Bernhardt’s suggestions in Data, Data Everywhere, when implemented with fidelity, will help leaders organize information, guide discussions, and, ultimately, lead to an improvement in student learning. Teacher Alex T. Valencic recommends the book.
With its comprehensive collection of CCSS-ELA graphic organizers, The Visual Edge provides a very visible way for students in grades 6-12 to approach Common Core-related standards. Teacher-reviewer Joyce Depenbusch has numerous suggestions for the next edition.
Articles / Back to School / New Teacher Advice
by MiddleWeb · Published 08/02/2016 · Last modified 08/04/2024
When you walk into your own classroom for the first time, options (and stressors) abound. Keying in on essentials and asking for help can help new teachers build a vibrant learning space. Veteran teacher trainer Laura Robb shares newbie tips to use or adapt.
First, effective school leaders have to hire the right people. Leadership experts and former principals Ron Williamson and Barbara Blackburn share tips about generational characteristics, interview protocols, and the kinds of questions principals shouldn’t ask.
Management in the Active Classroom is a unique behavior-oriented resource. Few other books offer specific strategies that help the teacher provide structure while still honoring the dignity of every student. Jodi and Matt Renwick recommend it for every school.
The NCSS revised Position Statement on Media Literacy supports engaging students in inquiry and analysis as well as developing their understanding of media and propaganda. Frank W. Baker shows how students can evaluate the flood of fake news and the Fall election.
