Just before the December recess a senior stopped me in the hall enthusiastic over his acceptance into college. He impressed upon me sincere gratitude for the letter of recommendation I had written. We exchanged compliments and I was given to reflection on two years we shared in history studies. In the recommendation I had highlighted his impassioned argument and […]
Technology
Posted inFeatured, Instructional Strategies, Middle School, Social Studies, Technology
STEAM Ahead- Social Studies Lesson- Part 2
It is two days before the winter holiday break as I wind down with students and their LED light projects. I entered this study with no experience in circuit design or understanding of how lights operate, I given up the security of time tested lessons for STEAM (Science, Technology Engineering, Art, Math). There was no need for […]
Posted inInstructional Strategies, Social Studies, Technology, Uncategorized
STEAM Inspired Spin on Social Studies
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math – the STEM subjects joined forces with Art (Design) to become STEAM, the acronym which stands for education that deliberately promotes 21st-century transformations in thinking. Social studies skills are not included as a focus and I like to think it’s because it is at the root of the original STEM.  As […]
Posted inFeatured, Instruction & Curriculum, Technology
Social Studies Educational Apps 101
Having access to technology in a classroom is one of the best ‘next generation’ resources you can have. Teachers all over want to be able to give students exactly the information that they need in engaging ways. The answer? Apps. Now, we know that not all apps are created equal. I’ve put together a list […]
Posted inCurrent Events in Education, Educational Apps, Featured, Special Education, Technology
iPhones in the Classroom are Game Changers
Dyslexic Students Becoming Independent with Apple’s iPhone, iPad, and Mac Devices Imagine constantly being presented with the printed word and not able to read it. Imagine being in class listening to the teacher, actively participating in class discussions, but then the teacher hands out a worksheet that you can’t read. Imagine the frustration of knowing […]
Posted inClassroom Management, Instructional Strategies, Middle School, Social Studies, Technology, Uncategorized
21st Century Classroom Management is… Fun?
Recently a veteran colleague and a teacher in training posed questions concerning classroom management and power struggles with students. Years ago the approach to dealing with students who test the boundaries of rules was quick and strict reprimand. Â Students were graded on neatness, orderly and timely manners, for being quiet unless called upon. While there […]
Posted inEnglish Language Learners, Instruction & Curriculum, Literacy, Technology
Wait for it… Esther Earle's Star
I saw the book cover on the nonfiction shelf at the library and was immediately hooked. This Star Won’t Go Out promised to fulfill the real world answers to questions swirling amongst YA followers of Fault in our Stars. The wonder and hopes that fans carry for the character heroes with terminal cancer will appreciate […]
Posted inFeatured, Technology
Why Should We Care About Virtual Education?
The world of education is changing. Sounds cliché, but it is true. I am seeing that with my own eyes as I have watched my short 7-8 year career evolve from teaching in a traditional classroom with limited technology to now teaching through a virtual classroom. It is this changing world that has me fascinated […]