Growth Mindset teaches us that learning is an ever-rising spiral that requires us to merge building blocks of our understanding and knowledge over time. We need to be patient and persistent with ourselves and students. We need to embrace flexibility and expect to not always ‘get it’ the first time we try something new. We… Read More »
As teachers look to the new school year, most are searching for ways to make quality more important than quantity. It’s a shift to making every problem, essay, writing stronger rather than longer. Here are a few ideas to tuck away as you plan. Plan activities that promote student skill development while interacting with others.… Read More »
Find joy every day. Your attitude and positive ways of engaging students will brighten the hours you spend with your class. Fill your classroom with positive energy. The site Big Life Journal provides growth mindset ideas and free resources, as well as purchasable materials. Subscribe for free! Display student work that shows each student’s best… Read More »
Summertime is a chance to renew our energy as well as a time to look for new inspiration. While it may be fun creating new materials, is it the best use of your time? Consider using other people’s ideas that meet your needs. Look to libraries, classes you attend(ed), and how-to-books. These days the internet… Read More »
Using metacognitive skills help students manage test taking. By using the 4 processes, students come to testing with additional ways to better handle/access their own thinking. Plan and Organize skim and preview tasks breakdown the parts decide how to proceed Self-Monitor check your progress troubleshoot problems ask for help when truly ‘stuck’ Self Reflect assess… Read More »
The four parts remain the same across learning math concepts: Plan and Organize skim and preview tasks breakdown the parts decide how to proceed Self-Monitor check your progress troubleshoot problems ask for help when truly ‘stuck’ Self Reflect assess our strategies Think-Pair-Share-Compare with others Direct Our Own Learning know what we know know what we… Read More »
Reading in schools takes up more than 80% of the school day. Finding meaning in any text requires us to think about how we think.** We must once again use these four basic elements: Plan and Organize skim and preview tasks breakdown the parts decide how to proceed Self-Monitor check your progress troubleshoot problems ask… Read More »
Metacognition is thinking about our thinking. It’s the driving force behind effective learning for kids from age 3 to high school and advanced learning and on through a productive life. As with growth mindset, it requires us to engage in a healthy struggle as we each develop this valuable life-long tool. We must think about… Read More »
The school year is winding down for most educators. Hopefully this has been a great year with tons of student success and limited teacher stress. Before you step away for your much deserved summer break, I want to offer you opportunities to consider: FREE Summer math packets for K-2 or 3-5 grades FREE math games… Read More »
Day after day, week after week, month after month, you give our children everything you have to give. Enjoy these words of praise for what you do: I like a teacher who gives you something to take home to think about besides homework. ~Lily Tomlin as “Edith Ann” A teacher’s job is to take a… Read More »