Continuing a long tradition, Mary Tarashuk reads a novel aloud to her fourth graders after lunch. But this year, in pursuit of “close reading,” she tries out several graphic organizers to help them probe deeper into the dramatic novel Red Kayak.
It’s Not Complicated: What I Know for Sure About Helping Our Students of Color Become Successful Readers will motivate teachers to redouble literacy efforts, says Maribeth Wicoff, but she wishes the author had included more about effective strategies.
By debunking four myths about parent involvement at the middle level, educators can increase engagement and spark student motivation and performance, says former middle school teacher and school improvement analyst Katie Wester-Neal, who shares some helpful strategies.
Education consultant Mike Fisher invites readers to be active participants in a Curriculum Brainstorm, using popular music and a song’s associated music video as a way to engage close reading of text, comparative analysis & use of digital tools.
Getting Started with STEM / STEM By Design
by Anne Jolly · Published 02/23/2014 · Last modified 12/10/2019
In this STEM By Design guest post, Dr. Susan Pruet shares 7 essentials on how to design and implement a successful, sustainable STEM program. Nothing worthwhile happens fast. So start with a diversely talented team and then work through her steps.
In Causes & Cures in the Classroom, author Margaret Searle provides detailed exemplars for getting to the root of students’ academic and behavioral problems. To reduce feelings of inadequacy, read the last chapter first, says reviewer Sarah Grieb.
Embracing Technology / Kids on the Cusp
by Mary Tarashuk · Published 02/19/2014 · Last modified 02/20/2014
“It’s hard to come to terms with the digital dinosaur in myself,” writes 5th grade teacher Mary Tarashuk, who’s been asked to help create online courses. “Technology benchmarks are a bit vague for this novice traveler on the Information Superhighway.”
Introducing the concept of product placement, using pop culture images and sporting events, is a great way to jump-start students’ critical viewing and grow their media literacy skills, says expert Frank Baker. Key questions for analysis included.
Most history teachers know the value of collaborative projects, but students often struggle over who does the work. Our bloggers Jody & Shara offer some ideas about turning groups into teams and getting each student to carry a fair share of the load.
Student-created videogames / Working Draft
by Kevin Hodgson · Published 01/27/2014 · Last modified 12/14/2019
Kevin Hodgson’s students use Gamestar Mechanic to design, build & publish science-based video games. The engaging 6th grade team project aims “to connect writing & media to science.” Included: Four playable examples & a link to team’s resource site.
