I’m one of those crazies that actually enjoy professional development workshops, at least the ones that we don’t have to do every single year like blood-borne pathogens and diabetes. Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the best professional development: Minecraft EDU. This session was based on the popular game Minecraft but with an educational [...]
If I were to ask my middle schoolers what the hardest subject is for them, I can tell you right now, a majority (especially sixth graders), would say science. Even though my kids typically love science labs, they despise all of the reading that accompanies them. When I talk to students about what makes reading [...]
The year I started guided math, I was in for a fun learning curve. Guided reading worked well in my classroom. I saw students making large strides and guided math was the new initiative. This was the year that I was going to jump into a more rigorous math class and more personalized teaching. I [...]
I have heard a million excuses from my students when asked why they have a bad grade in math. It’s too boring. I don’t get it. The teacher hates me. Whatever the reason, there are some strategies teachers can use in the math classroom to better reach students who may have thrown in the towel. [...]
When we get close to the end of the year I like to leave my students with a bit of reflection for the future. In a matter-of-fact and “non-preachy” way, I tell them that the most crucial issue that their generation will inherit is the environment. In fact, despite what students hear from many political [...]