As Kevin Hodgson’s 6th graders completed a lengthy foray into short story writing, they finished with reflections on their craft. Hodgson shares some of their insightful comments and considers reflection’s potential catalytic effect on both students and educators.
Future of History / Student Websites
by Sarah Cooper · Published 10/30/2016 · Last modified 11/16/2019
The idea of asking students to create eye-catching, source-rich websites is appealing, writes history teacher Sarah Cooper. But are the two weeks spent learning the tech and developing content a good investment of class time? She reflects on both sides of the issue.
By adopting Jonathan Eckert’s Novice Advantage, teachers can harness the enthusiasm of the “new” teacher and capitalize on the wisdom they have to improve their practice, says educator/reviewer Amber Chandler. Eckert’s innovative book offers many real-world examples.
In addition to clearly explaining research on the brain and mathematics education, math educator Anthony Jones says Stanford professor Jo Boaler ties all the research into practical, well-explained, innovative teaching strategies in “Mathematical Mindsets.”
The authors’ step-by-step formative assessment approach, along with a wealth of detailed resources, gives teachers and administrators the tools to implement a system of shared assessments with the power to transform a school. Erik Kreutner has just one reservation.
Are today’s students impatient to solve problems without enough thought? Curtis Chandler recalls Ms. Porcupine’s 6th-grade brain stretchers that required him to slow down and think methodically. He shares one about castles and crocodiles and has tips on creating more.
If teaching time in school is used effectively, not much homework needs to be given, writes MS teacher Cheryl Mizerny. “When I do give homework, I make every effort to make it engaging, meaningful, and brief.” Read the do’s and don’ts underlying her homework policy.
Author and veteran teacher educator Ann Weber outlines 3 key supervisory steps – preparation, coaching and evaluation – that can help cooperating teachers shine in their advisory roles and assure new teachers are ready to launch their careers in the middle grades.
Articles / Social & Emotional Learning
by MiddleWeb · Published 10/23/2016 · Last modified 11/27/2019
In a culture where we’re always connected, writes digital citizenship consultant Devorah Heitner, the challenges of adolescence are intensified in ways that adults and kids themselves don’t always fully grasp. Tweens and teens need a special brand of mentorship.
In his succinct text Bruce Dixon provides a jumping off point for anyone wondering how to tackle changing the way we educate students, writes tech resource teacher Renee Bogacz. His analysis can inspire educators to create their own frameworks.
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