Working Draft / Writing & Game Design
by Kevin Hodgson · Published 01/12/2016 · Last modified 12/14/2019
Where is the literacy in the ELA classroom when all of the students are engaged in designing and producing video game projects using science and other content? Kevin Hodgson explains why the work his sixth graders are doing satisfies writing standards.
Current Events / Future of History
by Sarah Cooper · Published 01/11/2016 · Last modified 11/12/2019
Current events discussions can be “a litany of disappointment” if they focus only on the dreary headlines of the day. Fortunately, writes social studies teacher Sarah Cooper, “sometimes students bring in articles that make us all laugh and think and give us hope.”
Literacy expert Regie Routman takes teachers for a ride and demonstrates how to avoid roadblocks that make writing less than doable, effective and gratifying. The destination? Classrooms where students routinely write to think, problem solve, create and explore.
After reviewing the history of grading, Cathy Vatterott shares reasons for implementing a progressive standards-based grading system, noting the challenges as well as the benefits. Teacher Michael DiClemente sees the need for research-based changes but wonders how to get there.
Book Reviews / Student Driven Learning
by MiddleWeb · Published 01/06/2016 · Last modified 11/16/2019
In Building School 2.0, Chris Lehmann and Zac Chase offer sharp insights on the world of learners and a vision for where schools should be heading. They include practical advice on how to move forward as a teacher, as a staff or as an administration, says Kevin Hodgson.
How are you going to tackle the STEM challenges coming in 2016 following passage of the Every Student Succeeds Act? Anne Jolly shares 4 ideas which could join your other education New Year’s resolutions to broaden horizons for you and your students.
In Ditch That Textbook, educator Matt Miller helps teachers reflect on their current practice and find better ways to make a difference in the lives of their students, says educator Laura Von Staden. His acronym – Different, Innovative, Tech-laden, Creative and Hands-on – reveals his philosophy.
ESSA Opportunities / Two Teachers in the Room
by Elizabeth Stein · Published 01/04/2016 · Last modified 11/14/2019
With passage of the Every Student Succeeds Act Elizabeth Stein says co-teachers must continue to keep their eyes on the prize of student achievement, continuing to ask: How does this law translate into my school? Into my classroom? And with my students?
Too often students get little more than a schedule and a friendly pat as they enter new schools. Counselor Dana Worden is changing all that at Travis Ranch MS where student volunteers not only welcome newbies but buddy with them until they fully blend in.
The first days back after the holiday are a perfect time to strengthen behavior and culture in active classrooms. Libby Woodfin shares text and video tips that teachers can use to make the transition smooth and set the tone for the rest of the school year.
More
