In Whole Novels for the Whole Class, Ariel Sacks offers a student-centered approach that promotes love of reading and deepens discussions, says reviewer Heather Wolpert-Gawron. Sacks’ documented strategies also address Common Core standards.
Flipped teaching / Future of History
by Jody & Shara · Published 12/29/2013 · Last modified 11/15/2019
History teachers can adopt flipped teaching techniques and remain true to their constructivist pedagogy, says Jody Passanisi. In her classroom, Passanisi creates videos that walk students through classroom procedures, explain tricky assignments, model writing or review test concepts — “anything procedural or to supply basic information.” The time she saves is invested in deeper study and individual help.
Strong Partnerships / Two Teachers in the Room
by Elizabeth Stein · Published 12/15/2013 · Last modified 11/26/2019
Although professional development, administrative support & common planning time are all very important and necessary, writes Elizabeth Stein, what matters most in achieving effective inclusion is how the two teachers in the room are approaching the experience.
Future of History / Student writing about history
by Aaron Brock · Published 12/08/2013 · Last modified 11/22/2019
Inner city middle school teacher Aaron Brock describes how he scaffolds the writing of a thesis-driven history essay with good results for students.
Beninghof’s book of best practices is rich with examples of how to increase student participation, focus attention & strengthen memory, says Linda Biondi.
Ariel Sacks says that by teaching novels “whole” she has been able to ignite interest in books, deepen discussions & improve reading comprehension. In this informative article, Sacks shares her rationale, her method, and reactions from her middle school students.
Future of History / Historical thinking
by Jody & Shara · Published 10/13/2013 · Last modified 12/05/2019
Evaluative questions that encourage the development of evidence based opinions help students learn to view history “as a complex narrative.”
Author Susan Brookhart demonstrates that rubrics are a great tool for helping students take charge of their own learning, says reviewer Tracey Muise.
Anne Jolly offers her take on the debate over STEM education and the motives behind the movement to promote a STEM learning approach.
Magazines about popular culture are an effective tool to teach media literacy and “a host of Common Core standards,” says expert Frank W. Baker.
