How do we put our young writers first? We seek to develop a mindset and actions that provide opportunity, dignity, and encouragement, says literacy expert Regie Routman. Then we carefully tailor feedback that celebrates strengths and boosts each and every writer’s confidence.
Boosting Learning / Heart of the School
by Rita Platt · Published 08/04/2020 · Last modified 07/28/2024
For a fresh, fun way to quickly assess student progress, try having them “Tap Out!” in person or online. Kids can think about their efforts toward meeting a learning target, and teachers get ongoing formative assessment data, writes NBCT Rita Platt. Lots of tips and tools!
Using a questioning format developed by Dr. María Cioè-Peña, teachers of English learners can examine current education policies through an anti-racist lens and resist practices that may demean and segregate students and devalue their cultures, writes educator Tan Huynh.
In his new book James Dillon takes a unique and potentially powerful approach to professional development, writes Anne Anderson. Dillion replaces the usual data and research with a collection of stories about teaching and learning gathered during his 40+ years’ of education experience.
The slow burn of racial injustice has once again erupted in a blaze of protests – illuminating long-standing social, economic, and educational disparities and divisions. Only this time is different, writes Vernita Mayfield. And it demands cultural competency from every educator.
Simulations involve tactile or kinesthetic participation and offer a way for students to be actively engaged in lessons and experience another dimension of learning. Barbara Blackburn and two colleagues share online and in-class SS, ELA, and STEM ideas.
Jennifer Sniadecki and Jason DeHart dive deep into using picture books in upper level classrooms to meet state standards and increase student mastery. In this 3rd post on the topic they share examples, research, and stories from their own teaching experiences.
Book Reviews / Student Driven Learning
by MiddleWeb · Published 07/16/2020 · Last modified 04/20/2022
Two-for-One Teaching is an excellent resource for educators who want to help connect what matters most to kids with what matters most to schools. The authors’ flexible strategies will help students learn and grow, writes 21st century curriculum coordinator Alex Valencic.
In More Grammar to Get Things Done, authors Crovitz and Devereaux strike the right balance of ideological and practical to make the idea of a pedagogical shift to teaching grammar in context not only doable but exciting, says ELA teacher Karen Rubado.
When we scratch our heads and wonder how can we prepare our students for a world increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence, Anne Jolly wants us to remember a great place to learn teamwork, technical skills, work ethics and social responsibility. STEM class!
