Author: MiddleWeb

75 Ways to Be a Better Teacher Tomorrow

Annette Breaux and Todd Whitaker’s concise, tips-packed book is a quick read with strategies that can easily be implemented tomorrow, says teacher leader Laura Von Staden. Among her favorites: “Leave One Compliment a Day” and “Ask Yourself Five Questions.”

Introspective Questions to Amplify Your Leadership

Veteran principal and multi-book author Baruti Kafele takes school leaders on a self-reflective journey to answer his title question by exploring 35 focused and intentional guiding questions. Education leadership professor Frank J. Hagen recommends taking the trip.

Tapping the Power of Daily Student Writing

Write Think Learn is an easy read for busy educators, challenges teachers and students to examine their attitudes about writing, gives readers a purpose and a desire to write, and will be a go-to reference throughout the school year, says teacher educator Linda Biondi.

A Fresh Approach to Middle School Behavior

What mix of behavior strategies can build happier, higher achieving middle schools? Principal Michael Gaskell shares customized PBIS methods his New Jersey school uses to help students stay in school, develop positive mentor relationships, and achieve greater success.

Overcoming Myths about “Being Good at Math”

Imagine the long-term benefits if teachers, schools, and educator prep programs address the issue of mathematical confidence in a systematic and vigorous way. Jerry Burkhart looks at causes of low “math self-esteem” among kids and teachers and outlines potential cures.

10 Genius Picture Books for Genius Hour Kids

Picture books make for great hooks at the beginning of lessons – capturing our attention and get us curious for the learning to come. They can also be perfect tools for introducing Genius Hour concepts. GH evangelists Gallit Zvi and Denise Krebs choose 10 favorites.

Game Changer! Assuring Book Access for All Kids

Donalyn Miller and Colby Sharp make the case for dedicated independent reading time and choice in books for all students in all schools – and they push back hard against narrow reading spectrums and the misuse of book leveling, writes 6th grade teacher Kevin Hodgson.

Find Educator Inspiration in the Beatles’ Magic

In The Pepper Effect, middle school principal and Beatles lover Sean Gaillard draws lessons for educators from the Fab Four and their album “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” to create a culture where students can innovate, writes teacher leader Laura Von Staden.

Start the Lesson Strong with Pre-Assessments

Prior to teaching your lessons, it’s important to gauge where students are in their knowledge of the topic. Instructional expert Barbara Blackburn suggests trying student-friendly strategies for pre-assessment – quick teacher-directed options or focused formal pre-tests.

Teach Media Literacy with Super Bowl Ads

Many millions of people who tune in to the 2019 Super Bowl will be there to watch the pricey, high-engagement commercials. Media literacy consultant Frank Baker explains how to teach about these “super ads,” approaching them as informational text worthy of close scrutiny and analysis.