Reviewer Linda Biondi likes everything about the new edition of Jeff Wilhelm’s popular book on improving comprehension by “thinking aloud.” Lots of examples from the classroom, a DVD with teachers using the strategies in class, and it’s CCSS-aligned.
Professional community / Working Draft
by Kevin Hodgson · Published 12/15/2013 · Last modified 11/25/2019
While teachers often lead a vibrant learning community within their classroom’s four walls, those walls can also be professionally isolating, says 6th grade teacher Kevin Hodgson. “Being part of a larger network…is empowering in ways that is difficult to put into words. Connections make you feel anchored to a movement. Seeking help is a show of strength.” The Nerdy Resolutions (#nerdlution) hashtag community, he says, is a prime example.
Book Reviews / Student Driven Learning
by MiddleWeb · Published 12/10/2013 · Last modified 11/17/2019
Reviewer Elisa Waingort highly recommends Student-Driven Learning to those who want to move toward a classroom where students are in the driver’s seat. The authors show how teachers can analyze current practice and begin leading students on hops, drives, and journeys toward ownership of learning.
This is a must-read book for teacher leaders, says our reviewer, offering the stories of 8 educators who seek a new kind of teacher role in America’s schools.
Book Reviews / Common Core State Standards
by MiddleWeb · Published 11/28/2013 · Last modified 11/24/2019
The authors help teachers assist students in developing a mathematical mindset and becoming active problems solvers, says reviewer Linda Biondi. Included are connections to other practice standards, rubrics, student dialogue and lesson examples, and more.
For the 2013 EduBlog Awards we’re defining “best” as among the “especially interesting & attention-worthy.”
Literacy expert Sarah Tantillo shares an essential strategy in helping students become close readers, with help from Percy Jackson and the Olympians.
Kids on the Cusp / Teacher Evaluation
by Mary Tarashuk · Published 11/19/2013 · Last modified 11/18/2019
It’s report card time. Mary Tarashuk puzzles over the disconnect between calls for authentic assessment & a culture mired in traditional A’s & F’s.
Media literacy consultant Frank W. Baker considers some of the ways that media arts intersect with STEM and present STEAM learning opportunities.
Jack Berckemeyer’s book is so full of wonderful wisdom and advice, says our reviewer Alex Valencic, that he wonders how he’s managed without it so long.
