This is part 8 of 13 things to do before the first day of school. I’m a firm believer that a checklist, while not the solution to all problems, can be instrumental in organizing an efficient day. Research at John Hopkins University shows the value of a simple 5 step checklist for inserting an IV….
Deep learning often happens when learners encounter experiences that challenge them to figure something out, explore new information, and create a product. Source: Designing Learning That Matters Student centered, inquiry based, what a great way to learn! Too many students, especially high achieving students at the high school level have lost this spark, and have…
It was the last period of a gloomy Tuesday in February. The teacher, a happy, hardworking guy who relished teaching seventh-grade math as much as his students enjoyed learning it from him, let slip an uncharacteristically harsh comment as he flashed through email while students filed into his room. “Another behavior report,” he cursed softly….
This is part 7 of 13 things to do before the first day of school. Who doesn’t like to drag furniture around their classrooms for hours trying to find the perfect arrangement? Well, pretty much everyone, but that’s why we have computers. There are tools you can use to lay out your classroom on the…
Think about our planet for a second. Earth has an elliptical — oval-shaped — orbit. That means we’re closer to the sun for one part of the year and farther away another part of the year. Does that fact explain why it’s hotter in the summer and colder in the winter? Lots of kids think…
13 things to do before the first day of school A few ideas on what you could do to get ready for the first day of school. Launching a Makerspace: Lessons Learned From a Transformed School Library The maker movement is getting huge! Take a step inside the classroom of tomorrow What will the classroom…
This is article 6 from 13 things to do before the first day of school. Sending home a newsletter on the first day of school is a way to inform parents about how your classroom will work for the upcoming year, and, more importantly, allow you to set up various communication channels for you, your students,…
This is article 5 from 13 things to do before the first day of school. It happens, usually before you’re ready for it. The day you have to prepare for a sub. A sense of dread comes over you as you put together your substitute folder. It’s even worse when you’re sick at home, trying…
Excitement about school makerspaces has been in the air, but many educators eager to create hands-on learning spaces in their schools still aren’t sure how to get started or why it’s worth the effort. New Canaan High School librarian Michelle Luhtala recently jumped headfirst into creating a makerspace in her library and documented what she…
When you cast your mind back to the days of school, you probably think of dusty textbooks, graffiti and chewing gum, lessons that were both boring and unengaging, and many, many chewed pens. But the classroom of tomorrow will look very different. The latest advancements in technology and innovation are paving the way for an…