In This Post: Aligned assessments are vital to accurately measuring student understanding. Four steps to create assessments that are aligned to your objectives. As an educator, assessment design can be a pain. Many times, we are tempted to find an assessment from available curriculum resources or grab questions from the “back of the chapter” and call it a day. However, … Read More
Building Better Rubrics
In This Post: An experience with a badly created rubric. What rubrics should measure… and what they shouldn’t. Ideas to include students in rubrics and assessment. Some time ago, I sat listening to presentations from my students. I paused at a student who obviously had not understood the concepts they were presenting on. The student spoke well, included the required components in … Read More
3 Things Principals Should KNOW In Your Classroom Observation
In This Post: Tips to always be ready for a principal observation! The three important questions your principal (or anyone) wants answered in a classroom visit. The importance of regular procedures for your classroom and your students. Ways to help students be aware of their learning goals, assessment, and procedures. That moment when… It’s last period, you’re fighting off a … Read More
Breaking Down Why District Initiatives Break Down
In This Post: The sad truth is, most district initiatives fail. There are common mistakes that are typically to blame for district initiatives failing, and they can be avoided. Start small, plan long-term, involve all stakeholders, provide follow-up, and choose the right provider, and you’ll be off to a better start, with your initiative much more likely to succeed. We’ve … Read More
The Missing Piece in Your Classroom Management Plan
In This Post: Many teachers, when they hear the term “classroom management,” think of things like rules, procedures, behavior, or tricks they’ve learned over the years. There is one component that is oddly overlooked. When you work WITH students, instead of against them, the entire equation changes. Define roles and expectations for both you and your students, talk about why … Read More