Teaching and learning in grades 4-8

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.

Using Scaffolding to Meet Rigorous Expectations

In “Scaffolding for Success” Blackburn and Miles explore the intricacies of educational scaffolding, offering educators a comprehensive framework to design supportive learning environments that enhance student engagement, learning and achievement, writes Melinda Stewart.

5 Ways Leaders Provide Stability Amid Confusion

We are living in an uncertain time with significant stress on institutions, including schools. Leaders play a critical role in helping their school community weather change and continue their commitment to serving each student. Williamson and Blackburn offer actionable advice.