Teaching and learning in grades 4-8

The Powerful Union of Differentiation and UDL

Two frameworks – Universal Design for Learning and Differentiated Instruction – have emerged as essential “power tools” in creating inclusive classrooms, writes Isaac Nathanson. Understanding how they complement each other can transform teaching and open doors for every learner.

Math Reasoning that Avoids Algorithm Traps

For an eye-opening read that will reinvigorate your approach to teaching math, NBCT Kathleen Palmieri recommends Developing Mathematical Reasoning: Avoiding the Trap of Algorithms, a valuable resource offering fresh insights to engage students with diverse math experiences.

Strong Sentence Frames to Support Your ELLs

By clearly defining language objectives and developing related sentence frames we can boost language development and impact English language learners’ reading and writing growth significantly. Alma Ortiz-Agib and Sunday Cummins share strategies developed in real classrooms.

I’m Just One Teacher. How Do I Make Change?

Pushback against equity-centered trauma-informed practices is present at all levels today. It’s overwhelming, and teachers feel disempowered. How can we become changemakers with so much stacked against us? Educator and trauma specialist Alex Shevrin Venet shares three insights.

An Illustrated Welcome to Beginning Teachers

Welcome to Teaching! does not just tell you how to teach. It shows you with lively illustrations and QR codes showcasing strategies in real classrooms and solutions to pitfalls often seen in classrooms of new teachers, writes PD leader Alison Prochaska. A “must-read” resource.

A Tool to Help Students Navigate Difficult Text

Students who struggle with academic reading can benefit from “a compass of sorts” to help them navigate texts. To accomplish this, educator Ron Klemp developed a four-step quickwrite protocol that’s been “extremely effective” in boosting their engagement and understanding.

Growing the Leadership Capacity in Your School

Solitary leadership doesn’t work very well because no leader knows everything. Ronald Williamson and Barbara R. Blackburn share strategies to help school leaders systematically build leadership capacity among their staffs and capitalize on the talents of informal leaders.

Teacher Induction That Works from Day One

“Teacher Induction That Works: A Lasting Impact from Day One” by Tara Link and Beth Whitaker is for anyone involved in setting up or improving a mentoring program. Instructional coach Kathee Lamberies finds the book practical, engaging, and full of actionable ideas.

Better Beginnings for Better Learning All Year

With the next school year not too far over the horizon, 7th grade teacher Laurie Hornik has tips for getting off to a strong start. She suggests skipping traditional ice breakers and instead introducing the class community by exploring what you will be learning together.