Book Reviews / Project Based Learning
by MiddleWeb · Published 01/26/2017 · Last modified 11/14/2019
PBL is an excellent vehicle for civic engagement, Zemelman’s From Inquiry to Action will help teachers prepare students to become global, responsible, and respectful, says teacher Linda Biondi. Its stories from the classroom and research show what is achievable.
Quality questions are the “bait” that can hook students into deeper discussions and learning that sticks. Questioning expert Jackie Walsh shares a pair of videos and several templates that will help teachers plan a questioning process that pulls all students in.
Becoming Brilliant, written by two psych professors, is less about intelligence than about helping children become collaborative, creative, competent, and responsible. Reviewer Rita Platt notes with dismay the authors’ blanket view that public schools are failing.
Art of Movie Making / Close Reading the Media
by Frank Baker · Published 01/17/2017 · Last modified 12/14/2019
CCSS ELA middle grade standards specifically address the importance of teaching film techniques and the decisions made by filmmakers. In a new MiddleWeb blog, Close Reading the Media, Frank Baker breaks down the art of movie making and shares lots of resources.
The three small, easy-to-read books in The Cooperating Teacher Series will help standardize practices for the crucial-for-success classroom experience of the student teacher. Mary Langer Thompson says the helpful overview also offers essential specifics.
BRAVO Principal, with its reflection questions and support exercises, is an effective resource for keeping school leaders centered on what matters most to promote the success of each of our students in our learning organizations, writes MS principal Dennis Schug.
Class Apps / Cultural Awareness
by Curtis Chandler · Published 12/19/2016 · Last modified 12/10/2019
Teaching expert Curtis Chandler sees an urgent need for educators to help students become more aware, understanding, and appreciative of other nations and cultures. Here he offers a rich collection of web resources that can bring global diversity into the classroom.
Barbara Boroson’s second edition is a valuable source of information and advice, written in everyday language. Although the book is intended for educators, teacher Linda Biondi also recommends it to parents who want to learn more about ASD and to advocate for their children.
As news organizations are increasingly folded into fewer and fewer media conglomerates, writes media literacy expert Frank Baker, their independence is left in doubt. He urges teachers to involve students in studies of “Big Media” as part of their civic education.
No school or district is immune from a future defined by declining resources. Leadership consultants Ron Williamson and Barbara Blackburn share four research-based strategies to help educators make the most of a challenging financial climate and serve all kids.
