Engagement / Two Teachers in the Room
by Elizabeth Stein · Published 04/03/2019 · Last modified 11/14/2019
Among the outdated teaching still found in schools, coach and NBCT Elizabeth Stein singles out round robin or popcorn reading for immediate elimination. Other research-based strategies can easily be substituted and lead to a more effective and just learning environment.
Create Compose Connect / Motivating Readers
by Jeremy Hyler · Published 03/27/2019 · Last modified 11/28/2019
After many discussions and short student surveys, Jeremy Hyler has drawn some conclusions about ways to encourage middle school readers. His three top strategies: offer them choices, have them conduct authentic conversations, and give them regular reading time in class.
It’s at the precise moment when students are bombarded by facts, whether historical or current, that we need to be especially vigilant, writes American history and current events teacher Sarah Cooper, paraphrasing historian Sam Wineburg. Sifting through sources has become a life skill.
Accessibility / The Unstoppable ML Teacher
by Valentina Gonzalez · Published 03/24/2019 · Last modified 12/11/2019
Simply making content available to students is not enough. We have to make it accessible to each and every one, including English learners. Specialist Valentina Gonzalez offers ways to identify obstacles to accessibility and create paths to learning in every subject.
Systemic change is still needed to shift stereotypes and achieve equity and equality in STEM fields, writes middle school science educator Cristina Veresan. But educators can make a difference by exposing students to “everyday” science superheroes who defy typecasting.
“My learners are young and impressionable,” writes grade 4 teacher Mary Tarashuk. “Teaching them true respect, for themselves and for others, just might get us on the path to improving some bigger problems we see around us.” Learn how Room 4T’s Pay It Forward project supports that goal.
Mike Schmoker dispels many myths that guide American education, says teacher leader Jennifer Peters, proposing instead a manageable, research-backed solution for educators to revolutionize their teaching and infuse literacy. She’s bought a copy for all her colleagues.
Heart of the School / Social Justice
by Rita Platt · Published 03/13/2019 · Last modified 05/29/2020
Giving students examples of how to fight against hate and injustice and for their rights and the rights of their fellow human beings is critical to a healthy democracy. Rita Platt shines a light on Jewish, black, and native American freedom fighters and protestors.
Count on it, writes STEM educator Anne Jolly, spring is almost here and your students’ energy and concentration are about to start slipping. Nice weather and seasonal events interfere with lesson continuity. How can you snag your kids’ interest again? Citizen science!
No single practice stops cruelty, but a combination of proven strategies used by committed staff trained in anti-bullying will maximize impact. Michele Borba outlines six rules that can help defeat the culture of bullying and replace it with the power of character.
