Math Homework / Meaningful Math
by Michelle Russell · Published 12/04/2016 · Last modified 11/17/2019
Inspired at EdCamp, Michelle Russell is trying optional math homework. Students decide how well they understand topics and do homework if they need practice. The next day begins with discussion and then a “homework quiz.” Michelle reports on how it’s all working.
Critical Thinking / Two Teachers in the Room
by Elizabeth Stein · Published 11/29/2016 · Last modified 11/26/2019
We have heard for over a decade now that we must be teaching our students how to think critically. Using four examples, coach Elizabeth Stein demonstrates how co-teachers can strengthen their own critical thinking skills using a shared problem-solving mindset.
Toy commercials, so pervasive on TV during the holidays, are a great way to jump-start media literacy discussions with students. Expert Frank Baker has lesson ideas.
By adopting Jonathan Eckert’s Novice Advantage, teachers can harness the enthusiasm of the “new” teacher and capitalize on the wisdom they have to improve their practice, says educator/reviewer Amber Chandler. Eckert’s innovative book offers many real-world examples.
Author and veteran teacher educator Ann Weber outlines 3 key supervisory steps – preparation, coaching and evaluation – that can help cooperating teachers shine in their advisory roles and assure new teachers are ready to launch their careers in the middle grades.
A few months into your first year teaching and ready for on-point advice? Todd, Katherine and Madeline Whitaker’s common-sense advice in Your First Year can both inspire you and help keep you on the right track. Linda Biondi thinks veterans will find it useful too.
Parent Teacher Conferences / Resources
by Susan Curtis · Published 10/10/2016 · Last modified 11/25/2019
From classroom to building to district, implementing parent teacher conference strategies collected from educators can strengthen communication and benefit students. Included: student led conferences, co-teaching approaches, challenges parents and guardians face.
When students are busy learning, staying in a single group is stifling. The solution for teacher-author Amber Chandler is a “flexible classroom” where students rotate through strategic groupings to meet differentiated needs at various stages of the learning process.
The Co-Teaching Relationship / Two Teachers in the Room
by Elizabeth Stein · Published 10/04/2016 · Last modified 11/21/2019
The most effective classroom leaders combine their expertise with others in collaborative, powerful ways, says instructional coach Elizabeth L. Stein. How can co-teachers evolve into a dependent leadership team? “Each co-teacher must be willing to be disturbed.”
Rose-colored glasses are a key accessory for instructional coaches, writes Rita Platt in her first article for MiddleWeb. Platt shares five promises that she makes to herself and her collaborating teachers to keep things positive, appreciative and ever-improving.
