Why Design Lessons

Donnetta NorrisBlog, Lesson Planning, Teach Happier

TL;DR: As an educator, it is important to continue learning and to always work towards improvement. Design Lessons is a podcast to help teachers learn about instructional strategies and design creative learning opportunities for students. I have been on a journey to improve, expand, and grow as a teacher and a writer. I believe it’s important to remain current in … Read More

Social (Justice) Studies as Experiential Learning

Noor AliBlog, Lesson Planning

TL;DR: It is critical that we realign the lens of experiential learning to include the domains of social (justice) studies. This will help to truly engage students in their worlds. Experiential learning in the classroom needs to make space for areas in social studies and the world in which we live.  It takes those issues on from a lens of … Read More

Amplifying Black History All Year

Teach Better TeamBlog, Lesson Planning, Student Engagement

TL;DR: Black history should be amplified all year long. Black voices belong in students’ curriculum and content for more than 28 days. Amplify Black authors and achievements in all subjects by citing Black teachers, creators, authors, and thinkers, reading text that celebrates black excellence and joy, and helping students understand Black history. Teach Black identity intersectionality and be mindful of … Read More

What’s Your Superpower? Mine Is Teaching!

Teach Better TeamBlog, Innovation, Lesson Planning

TL;DR: In 2020, educators had on their “superhero” outfits to bring about an educational revolution. Superpower traits that were discovered last year involve striking a balance, creating empowering lessons with student input, discovering your network, digital learning platforms, technology, learning what you don’t know, connecting, being yourself, gathering feedback, and embracing change. As 2021 starts, a new year with new … Read More

Highlights of 2020: In Case You Missed It

Teach Better TeamBlog, Classroom Management, Differentiation, Edtech, Innovation, Leadership, Lesson Planning, Reflect Better, Self-Care, Student Engagement, Teach Happier

TL;DR: This post shares highlights of Teach Better blog posts in 2020. Categories for posts include pandemic teaching, self-care, instructional strategies, conversations, growth mindset, communication, and leadership. Pandemic Teaching 3 Ways to Support Students Virtually by Chelsea Nicolino 5 Ways to Support Students and Teachers Virtually and Maintaining Rigor through Distance Learning by Chad Ostrowski Key Considerations for Educators During … Read More