Teaching and learning in grades 4-8

Designing Successful Independent Study

Geraldine Woods offers strategies for teachers to design and implement a self-contained independent study program or to incorporate principles of independent study into an existing unit or class. Sarah Cooper finds the book’s efficacy lies in its wide, practical application.

Back in Class: What to Change, What to Keep?

In this unprecedented school year, as teachers and school leaders set goals and decide what to keep and what to change, Lynne Dorfman and Aileen Hower argue that “it is social-emotional learning – not academics – that should be the focus for the first month of school.”

Summer Travels Amplify History of the Holocaust

Laurie Lichtenstein’s travels to Holocaust sites this summer “had an indescribable emotional impact.” And now, “within this new consciousness resides a deeper understanding of history and an enthusiasm that I hope is infectious as I re-enter my classroom this school year.”

Every Teacher Makes a Difference – Every Day

It’s the start of a new school year, and you’re 100% excited about making a difference for kids! But issues in and out of the classroom can dull your enthusiasm in no time. How do you stay sharp? Barbara Blackburn shares insights to sustain your can-do energy all year long.

Ideas to Bring Out the Best in Every Teacher

Education leaders feeling stressed and wondering how to address this autumn’s many challenges can find the help they need in the new edition of Carl Glickman and Rebecca West Burns’ Leadership for Learning. Consultant Cathy Gassenheimer found it full of actionable ideas.

Plan Now to Respond to Trauma in Schools

Stephanie Filio’s Responding to Student Trauma: A Toolkit for Schools in Times of Crisis provides a well-developed framework for school personnel to handle four sources of trauma. AP Virginia Hornberger notes it is a good starting point to develop a crisis plan of action.

Questioning, Discussion and Student Feedback

Here are MiddleWeb’s 12 most popular articles about asking quality questions in class, scaffolding student discussions, and gathering formative feedback from kids through dialogue. Learn from Jackie Walsh, Valentina Gonzalez, Barbara Blackburn, Curtis Chandler and more!