Communication, adaptability, and problem-solving are among the “soft” social-emotional skills that are behind-the-scenes champs of the learning process. Literacy interventionist Kelly Owens shares 10 ways she is weaving the “intangibles” employers prize into existing lessons.
In Teaching Reading Across the Day, Jennifer Serravallo’s blend of theory, research and engaging, explicit practice offers a roadmap for creating a classroom where reading is a central, dynamic component of the learning experience across subject areas, writes Melinda Stewart.
When students learn to both regulate their emotions and apply executive function strategies, they become more engaged learners who are better at managing stress, staying focused, and solving problems. Marilee Sprenger shows how SEL and EF work together in various subject areas.
“Improving Teacher Morale and Motivation” by Ronald Williamson and Barbara Blackburn provides school leaders with key strategies for directly addressing teacher morale and effectiveness. Systems coach Matt Renwick reflects on three of the book’s valuable principles.
Julie Hasson looks into how teachers benefit from regular reflection on changes, challenges and celebrations to better understand experiences, choices, and consequences. Along with regulating, relating and reframing, reflection can help us recharge and build greater resilience.
Stealth learning and assessment blur the boundaries between learning, assessment, and fun. Teacher educator Curtis Chandler shows how simulations and practical projects help students across subjects gain knowledge while enjoying the process. Included: some lesson design tips.
Anderson and Glover have authored a helpful, easy-to-follow book, writes veteran teacher Elisa Waingort-Jiménez. Their eight strategies center on specific craft and genre moves that will help teachers become better writers as they help students develop their own skills.
By developing the skill of reframing, teachers can navigate challenges with greater ease, foster a more positive mindset, and build resilience that benefits us and our students. Tools for changing our perspective include pausing, pondering, and persisting, writes Julie Hasson.
Women’s history is no longer in hiding, thanks to scholars who are documenting women’s impact on society. Middle grades teachers can help their students trace that history with these resources, just updated and expanded, for Women’s History Month and beyond.
“Life Skills for All Learners” by A.S.F. Amir and Thomas Guskey offers a comprehensive exploration into crucial life skills education and shows how to integrate the skills into lessons. Melinda Stewart says the book is both insightful and a practical guide to skill-building.
