Teaching and learning in grades 4-8

Helpful Advice for Math & Other Coaches

Pia Hansen’s Mathematics Coaching Handbook carefully explores the roles played by coaches, then goes on to describe how to approach and work with teachers. Middle grades specialist Scott Sharp also finds the appendix’s many templates helpful.

When Puzzled Teacher Meets Troubled Kid

Figuring out what’s going on with a child emotionally and behaviorally is the practice of counselors and therapists. But the classroom teacher often sees problems first. Psychotherapist Noah Kempler suggests things to consider when a student’s behavior shifts.

Use Text Sets to Spark Unstoppable Learning

Thematic text sets that tap into the social worlds and narrative driven lives of adolescents can spark “unstoppable learning,” say literacy educators Katie and Chris Cunningham, who share several text-set examples and a 10-step process for building your own.

Renewable Energy for Teachers & Students

“Renewable Energy: Discover the Fuel of the Future,” packs in activities & learning for teachers and students. STEM coordinator Emily Anders says it’s “a must-have resource” for teachers who want to add project learning to their lessons on energy sources.

Engaging Students: From Seatwork to Feetwork

Learning needs to become active and stay that way. Ron Nash’s 2nd edition of “From Seatwork to Feetwork” explains how teachers can let go of traditional teaching methods and shift to student-directed classrooms, says educator and writer Mary Langer Thompson.