Teaching and learning in grades 4-8

7 Graphic Organizers to Scaffold Student Learning

In her latest look into the power of scaffolding to boost students’ learning, education consultant and author Barbara R. Blackburn centers on a traditional but very effective strategy: offering students graphic organizers. She shares seven examples with tips on how each one supports learning.

How Your School Can Be Gender Inclusive

In Gender-Inclusive Schools Dave Edwards provides practical advice for educators, administrators and caregivers to help create climates that are predictably safe and affirming for their gender-expansive students. Melinda Stewart expects the book will be an invaluable resource.

Grammar Made Friendly: Using Anchor Charts

Patty McGee shows how anchor charts can transform grammar from a set of abstract rules into a practical toolkit that students actually want to use. These sticky note charts become trusted companions in the writing process, turning hesitant writers into confident communicators.

Supporting Healing and Justice at School

Alex Shevrin Venet guides educators on how they can become effective, equity-centered, trauma-informed changemakers to provide healing and justice at school. Her book includes many insights, moments of reflection and useful exercises, writes education consultant Randy Ross.

Dystopian Fiction to Stretch Students’ Minds

Teaching dystopian fiction offers students a meaningful way to engage with literature and social issues while developing critical thinking skills. Kasey Short suggests discussion questions, activities, and a sample of dystopian novels and short stories to capture students’ attention.

Endings Can Help Kids Prep for What’s Ahead

Endings – whether for middle or high school – are all about what comes next. We help students learn so they will be able to bring their learning forward to face new challenges. Students can benefit from our making these moves more explicit. Laurie Miller Hornik offers strategies.