One of the greatest resources I’ve ever used in the classroom is the Processing Assignment (or PA). Created by the Teachers’ Curriculum Institute (TCI), the PA is really whatever you or the students want it to be. Let’s examine more on the incredible teaching tool. What is a Processing Assignment (PA)? Simply put, it’s hitting the “pause […]
Instruction & Curriculum
Posted inInstruction & Curriculum, Literacy
My Philosophy for Secondary Writing Instruction
A while ago, I shared tips for grading writing. Now, I am sharing my philosophy about writing instruction in the secondary English classroom. What follows are four of my strongest-held beliefs. Give students an opportunity to improve Many students believe writing ends as soon as they turn in their final copy. (For many students, it […]
Posted inFeatured, Instruction & Curriculum, Instructional Strategies, Literacy, School Improvement
Putting the "A" in AP
It seems as though everyone is jumping on the AP bandwagon. Schools are offering professional development and a variety of incentives to implement this program. Advance Placement courses are intended to replace freshmen level course at the college level. This allows high school juniors and seniors to receive college credit early. Sounds great, right? Well, […]
Posted inElementary School, English Language Learners, Instruction & Curriculum, Literacy, Science, Social Studies, Uncategorized
Avoiding Round Robin in All Subject Areas
I am always amazed that the Round Robin reading still exists. The empirical evidence has shown that it is an ineffective teaching method. Just being an observant teacher would make you realize the kids are bored and off task. Worst of all, it brings humiliation to students who struggle with reading or English. So how […]
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 inInstruction & Curriculum, Uncategorized
Let's Talk About Tests
Testing has been around forever and strikes fear in the hearts of American school children (and teachers for that matter). Standardized testing has been around since the IQ test was structured in 1905. Today in education there are many forms of testing. It is important to understand the types of tests, their purposes and how […]
Posted inFeatured, Instruction & Curriculum
The Gift of Gratitude
Gratitude is being thankful, showing appreciation and returning kindness. Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and other holidays celebrated in the December can find a connection to gratitude. Thoughtfully teaching this habit in our classrooms can bring traditions together during the holiday season. Edutopia has a post about helping students reflect and a gratitude journal. As I am thinking […]
Posted inFeatured, Instruction & Curriculum
5 Things They Don't Tell You in College About Teaching
After spending 4 years in college, you would think that you would know everything there is to know about teaching. Unfortunately when you break it down, 2 years of undergrad and 2 years of career focused training doesn’t fully prepare you. Now that I have been out of college and am well into my 8th year […]