Laila Sanguras helps educators better understand the nature of grit and think about how to build a culture of grit for all students, including the gifted. Reviewer Linda Bollendorf says the author, a former middle grades teacher, writes with humor and practicality.
Math Dislike / Meaningful Math
by Michelle Russell · Published 02/04/2018 · Last modified 11/22/2019
When Michelle Russell began teaching, she was always surprised when students said they didn’t like math. She’s not surprised any longer. After considering some of the roadblocks to loving math, she shares the goals she’s established to help reach more of her students.
Building Relationships / The Unstoppable ML Teacher
by Valentina Gonzalez · Published 02/04/2018 · Last modified 12/04/2019
Middle grades English language learners and especially new immigrants can feel vulnerable in the classroom. How can teachers build relationships with our ELLs to help them feel safe and more open to learning? ELL specialist Valentina Gonzalez shares five proven techniques.
Every year, writes teacher leader Jennifer Smith, schools “muddle through” standardized testing days trying to design schedules that take less time away from productive learning. Her 5th grade team tried a fresh approach that both engaged and energized test-weary kids.
It's Not Easy Being Tween / Student Stress
by Cheryl Mizerny · Published 01/28/2018 · Last modified 12/03/2019
When Cheryl Mizerny polled her students about their stress levels, she found both social and school related concerns: noise, homework, time management, grades and testing. She shares actions teachers and schools can take to mitigate stress and promote student growth.
Mary Tedrow makes a strong case for daily student writing that generates ideas and wonderings not only in English but all content areas. Sarah Cooper finds Tedrow’s detailed guide to using Daybooks and her recommendations on grading and indexing particularly helpful.
Class Apps / Emotional Learning
by Curtis Chandler · Published 01/21/2018 · Last modified 12/12/2019
Research has given us a better understanding of fun, but educators still struggle to make it part of classroom learning. Curtis Chandler shares 10 questions he asks as he works to create challenge and playfulness in his lessons. Engaging apps and tools are part of the mix.
Practical teachers concerned with helping kids move forward as readers know that giving them access to engaging texts at their approximate level is an important strategy, says school librarian Rita Platt. Read her arguments for avoiding an either-or approach to leveling.
Whether you teach in a gifted education classroom or have gifted students in your general classroom, you will find Teaching Gifted Children a thorough treatment of established practice and current trends in working with high-ability learners, says educator Linda Biondi.
Future of History / Teaching strategies
by Sarah Cooper · Published 01/15/2018 · Last modified 11/23/2019
Recently Sarah Cooper’s history classes debated whether the electoral college should be abolished. Reflecting on the weeklong unit, Cooper concludes she “misstepped” in several ways. Learn what she plans to do differently next year, starting with a fresh debate topic.
