Teaching and learning in grades 4-8

5 Ways to Make Kids Hate Your Class

Veteran educator Cheryl Mizerny is surrounded by committed teachers, but she knows that even the most well-intentioned can fall into bad habits that may make some students dread coming to their class. She shares the warning signs of five problem behaviors.

How Dialogue Circles Promote Student Growth

Dialogue circles can facilitate brain function and help “increase generosity, trust, intrinsic motivation, social connection, and cooperation so students can work together for a common purpose,” writes inner-city middle school principal David Palank.

How to Create a Student Storytelling Club

Karen Chace knows storytelling can build literacy as well as joy. In Story by Story she explains in detail how to develop students’ storytelling skills and how to gain support for storyteller festivals. Reviewer Kevin Cordi especially values her reports of student engagement.

Just-in-Time Guide to Classroom 3D Printing

Reviewer Sandy Wisneski has found 3D Printing in the Classroom an excellent resource to begin her journey with 3D printers. Besides explaining the technology, the book also offers resources to search for student software and ideas to expand projects into real life.

Help Your Students Get Into the Learning Flow

Students in a state of “flow” learn faster, are more focused, enjoy learning, and often increase the level of challenge. Teacher-author Larry Ferlazzo distills the research and has ideas for teachers that can help students achieve flow regularly in class.