Classroom Routines / It's Not Easy Being Tween / New Teacher Advice
by Cheryl Mizerny · Published 10/04/2015 · Last modified 12/10/2019
By staying true to your personality and developing routines that proactively eliminate your sources of stress, you and your students will have a happier, more productive year. Cheryl Mizerny shares some favorite procedures that work in her tween classroom.
Why play games in math class? The authors of Well Played have the answers, as well as classroom-tested games and puzzles detailing objectives, assessment tips, differentiation ideas and more. Teacher Linda Biondi also likes the suggested online game resources.
Vocabulary knowledge is the heart of reading comprehension and academic achievement, says literacy consultant Brenda Overturf, “and it means way more than just learning words.” Students must have the tools to decipher unknown academic words. She shares three of the best.
Pam Robbins’ Peer Coaching offers recent research, broad questions and discussions, and practical applications which coach Holly Foley believes can advance student achievement while supporting professional growth and contributing to positive school culture.
Communications / Two Teachers in the Room
by Elizabeth Stein · Published 09/16/2015 · Last modified 12/11/2019
Communication is the oxygen in the room when we want any relationship to work. But communication and co-teaching can be a tricky business. Elizabeth Stein looks at surefire ways to make your co-communications work as you speak up for all the students.
Long-time middle grades teacher Mark Overmeyer brings his techniques for successful student writing conferences – one-on-one, peer, and small-group – to “Let’s Talk.” Drawing on the modeling Overmeyer provides, Tyler McBride plans to launch regular conferences this fall.
Future of History / Understanding Religions
by Lauren S. Brown · Published 08/23/2015 · Last modified 11/29/2019
Teaching about Judaism, Christianity and Islam is a staple in many middle school world history and culture classes. To help counter students’ frequent confusion about these religions, Lauren Brown points out misconceptions and offers resource ideas.
Reading Wellness makes teacher Linda Biondi want to “take a risk in teaching literacy, get out of my comfort zone, collaborate with my colleagues, and bring the joy of reading to all my students – and colleagues.” She expects others will feel the same.
Book Reviews / English Language Learners
by MiddleWeb · Published 08/13/2015 · Last modified 11/17/2019
Ivannia Soto guides educators teaching oral language skills and writing in the content areas to integrate CCSS writing goals with strategies that deepen learning among English language learners. Literacy coach Glenda Moyer recommends the book highly.
Holding a clear sense of vision and purpose for the school is important for the principal. Ronald Williamson and Barbara Blackburn share leadership tools to help develop a personal vision and then work collaboratively with the school community to develop a shared vision.
