In his latest book, Super Spellers Starter Sets, Mark Weakland provides a classroom resource to support the principles he presented in 2017’s Super Spellers – that spelling should not simply be a list of words to know for a test but a learned skill essential to literacy.
Before she finally produced a successful manuscript, Dr. Malayna Evans had to think long and hard about how to integrate ancient Egyptian history into a story that would appeal to today’s kids. So she turned down her “scholar” and turned up her passion for the subject.
International Teaching / Wide Open Learning
by Megan Kelly · Published 05/26/2019 · Last modified 11/17/2019
The effort it takes to make yourself an appealing candidate for a teaching job overseas also makes you a better educator wherever you teach, says veteran international teacher Megan Kelly. Ready to pursue the dream? Follow Megan’s insider tips to maximize your chances.
Remember Ralphie’s theme in A Christmas Story? Today’s ELA educators would love to see that kind of writing commitment, says Jeremy Hyler. Instead he’s seeing a lack of writing endurance in his 6th and 7th graders. Here’s some of what Hyler does to improve their stamina.
When Brent Gilson began teacher training he vowed to one day give his students more choice and voice than he ever had in school. Follow his journey from early experiments to his growing success, thanks to insights gained from mentors like Kylene Beers, Kelly Gallagher and Marisa Thompson.
Leveraging Strengths / The Unstoppable ML Teacher
by Valentina Gonzalez · Published 05/19/2019 · Last modified 12/02/2019
It’s important to recognize how the skills we use to learn different subjects are related, says Valentina Gonzalez. Show your students who are good in math how to leverage their success and apply it to reading. And vice versa. It’s all about carrying over our strengths!
Close Reading the Media / Visual Literacy
by Frank Baker · Published 05/15/2019 · Last modified 11/25/2019
It’s not a simple matter to separate photojournalism from visual propaganda intended to sway emotions and opinions. Drawing in part on iconic images from Dorothea Lange’s career, expert Frank Baker explores the question and shares SEL and media literacy lesson resources.
School in Spring. Freedom so close you can taste the poolside popsicles. Teachers open windows for a waft of fresh air. Sunny dispositions abound. Students squirm but they learn. Except, writes teacher Laurie Lichtenstein with weary humor, this is MIDDLE school. In Spring.
Assessment / It's Not Easy Being Tween
by Cheryl Mizerny · Published 05/13/2019 · Last modified 11/24/2019
There’s lots to know about the art of assessment, writes master teacher Cheryl Mizerny, but the main goal is to provide opportunities for all kids to show their understanding to the best of their ability. Her before, during, and after assessment tips can make things fair.
Last Days of Math Class / Meaningful Math
by Michelle Russell · Published 05/12/2019 · Last modified 04/26/2024
Michelle Russell’s plan to end the year with some “serious teaching” has quickly collapsed under the weight of special events. That’s okay. “It came to me eventually that I also want to enjoy the last few weeks I will have these students.” Here’s what she decided to do.
