What exactly is explicit instruction?

When students are new to the learning, or struggling with the learning, they likely need explicit instruction, but some might consider this approach as "drill and kill?" Dr. Anita Archer invites us to see explicit instruction as a key component to learning, to think less in categories and more in continuums.

Is handwriting still important?

If you teach languages, you have likely had the conversation with other teachers about whether or not to teaching cursive handwriting. In our digital age, is this still a skill we should prioritize? Research suggests there is an important relationship between the mind/memory and handwriting, yet teachers speculate if they should justify the time it takes for students to learn this skill. I wonder if it should be taught in art instead? This video challenged my thinking and it may challenge yours too.

How do we handle expectations?

Do you understand how your students manage your expectations? Or ever wonder why your colleagues manage staff and work expectations differently? And which of these four temperaments do you see in yourself?

As Socrates said, "Know thyself" and consequently, learn to know others too. This information might help you change some of your students' habits (and perhaps your own). No matter what you learn, note the emphasis on compassion and understanding.

Making Differentiation Doable

In this short video, renown educator, author, and ELL expert Larry Ferlazzo simplifies differentiation. He also leaves us with something to think about regarding what is most important in making differentiation doable.

It's a marathon.

Hello teachers. Whether you are new or seasoned, being a teacher is a marathon. The first few weeks of September can seem overwhelming when the finish line is horizons away. If you're feeling that way, remember Terry Fox. He was only 22 years old.

A Compassionate Stance

Is compassion a matter of reacting to situations or is it about how intentional you are? This short video may make you rethink your definition of compassion and how to apply it to your life, or teach it to your students.

What's similar about bowling & inclusive ed?

Classroom composition and diversity is a given. But how do we reach more students? Shelly Moore, from the University of British Columbia, has a clever idea.

What does school "feel" like for some kids?

 

The "cumulative" weight of school interactions can feel quite heavy for some students by the end of the day. Is there a way to lighten the load? Use your language to elevate, not to shame because the words we use on our students become the words they use on themselves. 

What exactly do teachers do?

Educational researcher Dr. David Sousa answers this question succinctly: we teachers are "brain changers." 

Learning more about the brain can boost your teaching productivity and efficiency, plus it can be inspiring. Edutopia has a 5 minute film festival page on a variety of subjects that pertain to teachers, including learning about the brain, like this one, How Youth Learn: 

Happy "boring" summer?

Recently, due to the ubiquitous use of technology and its distracting nature, scientists are debating the importance of boredom. Some neuroscientists, including Susan Greenfield, argue that so-called boredom provides time for students, all of us really, to figure out who we are and what we believe. That seems pretty important, doesn't it? Teachers especially need some of this personal down time. Therefore, we hope you and yours enjoy a little bored time this summer. We think cartoonist Grant Snider would agree.

A happy summer to all!