Word play is fun and it stretches the brain to see words and letters in different ways. Anagrams are one kind of word play to excite learners. Try these words, with rearranged letters back-to-front, as new words: on becomes no and spot becomes tops or pots Try these with your students: dare teas stale slap pear … Read More »
When you are planning a lesson or activity, think about the organization of your ideas as well as your time. The nitty-gritty basics are: 1. Focus. Introduce the lesson/activity by creating a straight-forward 1-3 sentences. This overview lets the students “in on” your plan. It also forces you to clarify your goals, thus weeding out unnecessary… Read More »
When we think of giving people gifts, we often forget the most basic kinds; the gift of time and self. As families with school children begin winter breaks and have more time together, it’s the perfect time to begin a lasting tradition that has a ‘payoff. It’s the gift of a family homework hour. The payoff is family… Read More »
As adults we work. Some of us work at home, others leave to work elsewhere. Our kids also have work. Their work is school. It is important that we give their ‘work’ proper respect and help them understand that they have a responsibility to do their best while they are at work. That means we… Read More »
It’s important to think of how you will approach a school or teacher when you offer to volunteer. Take a minute to organize your approach. 1. Do you know a staff member or a family of a student who attends the school? If so, speak with that person. Ask about which classrooms want or need… Read More »
Two key strategies (active listening and wait time) used in classrooms also work in small groups. They assist group leaders as well as the groups they lead. Both show respect for the learning in progress. Active listening demonstrates taking turns as well as respect for the speaker.When a person is speaking, all attention needs to be… Read More »
Organize for success: plan ahead. The first minutes of your group time determine the success of your task. That’s when you ‘set the stage’ through your demeanor and expectations. 1. Focus on your current task. Leave your life outside the classroom at the door so you can give 100% of your focus to the students you will… Read More »
When you work with students, part of your responsibility is to report back to the teacher. But what should be included? Give the teacher as much information as possible to help determine if the task needs more time or new materials before moving on to another task or activity. If the teacher provides a form, fill… Read More »
Working on vocabulary skills we need to be relevant and create interesting activities. Consider using the following ideas with older students. 1. Reader’s Digest Word Power – It gives you the word, choices of meaning and then the correct meaning on the next page. 2. Text books – Create multiple possible meanings (like Reader’s Digest)… Read More »
There are times when groups are finished or changes in the school day causes groups times to move or end with time to spare. When you have free time in the classroom, think about helping by doing teacher-approved jobs. Remember to work quietly and not disturb students close to those areas. * straighten student work areas currently… Read More »