The narrow “alphabetic” definition of writing found in many school classrooms actively disengages youth, says literacy author Shawna Coppola. Students simply prefer to compose using forms that incorporate visual, aural, and multimodal texts as a way to make or enhance meaning.
We lead busy lives and even the best leaders and the most astute decision makers are subject to “decision fatigue.” Author-educators Ron Williamson and Barbara Blackburn believe it is imperative for school leaders to “adopt strategies to minimize its negative impact.”
The Next Step Forward in Word Study and Phonics offers resources that will convince even the most skeptical that word study can be done quickly if done intentionally. Teacher Michelle Voelker likes the lessons targeting multiple reading levels and the many how-to videos.
Infusing more writing into science, math and social studies doesn’t have to be difficult – or require content teachers to grade like English class. MS science/ELA teacher Jeremy Hyler describes his Science Notebooks, used in a variety of ways with students year-round.
Do your students know how much you care? Especially those students who have built a wall or may face difficult situations at home? How can you connect? Principal Liz Garden found sticky notepads, a favorite book and regular one-to-one time can make all the difference.
Close Reading the Media / Influencers
by Frank Baker · Published 01/08/2020 · Last modified 02/14/2020
In today’s online marketing environment, everybody seems to be after the attention of young people, writes media literacy expert Frank Baker. Many tweens and teens have money and may not see through all the strategies and tactics of influencers. Educators need to help.
When we give in and teach students to “write for the test,” Brent Gilson says, we force them into a writing box that many kids come to hate. Learn how he’s reinventing his writing instruction so students discover their truth, expressed through their own words and ideas.
It’s inevitable. Interruptions will steal instructional time. As winter break approached this year, the urgency to “cover everything” left math teacher Michelle Russell super-stressed and her students sad. Armed with fresh strategies, she’ll try not to let it happen again.
We asked Google Analytics to find the 10 most-read posts published at MiddleWeb during 2019. We love the variety and the solid advice. Every contributor has been a successful classroom teacher who loves to collaborate with colleagues. Here they are, in no particular order.
For social studies teachers, incorporating civics and current events is an important part of the job, says teacher and civics blogger Brian Rock. “Your task is, ultimately, to help grow and develop the next generation of citizens.” He suggests four helpful online resources.
