TL;DR: Assessment is a time for students to reflect on what has been shared with them. Assessments can take all shapes and forms. Ultimately, what we want is for students to share their thoughts and understandings. Continue to reflect and assess your own life and challenge yourself to meet goals. It was a great honor to have been a guest … Read More
Classroom Management Is Not Just About Rules
TL;DR: Classroom management is not just about rules. Make students feel valued and successful as individuals in your class. Teach responsibility through natural situations that arise in your classroom. Model clear communication in your feedback to students. Effective Classroom Management We have always heard the phrase “effective classroom management” either from colleagues or administrators, but what does that entail? Classroom … Read More
Grades, Feedback, and Assessments
TL;DR: The focus in school is frequently on the grades received rather than the skills obtained. Feedback and the improvement of skills should be valued more. We all need to work together to create this change. In 2015, I attended the “What Great Educators Do Differently” conference with my colleague in education and best friend. I attended a session by … Read More
Reconsider Your Expectations
TL;DR: Believing in students and setting high expectations for them can help them be successful. Find ways to get your students interested. Make sure the lessons and activities you are teaching are relevant. Know what your end goal is and makes sure it is clear to your students, too. Provide opportunities for your students to reflect on their own work. … Read More
Approaching the Upcoming School Year
TL;DR: Shift the focus to the development of skills. Content is still important, but it’s just not the purpose of the course. Develop a framework and common language to use during the feedback process. Limit feedback to a specific part of the assignment. When used appropriately, whole class feedback is a valuable tool. Provide multiple practice opportunities to every student … Read More