How can I facilitate class discussions and group work?

Andrea KalchbennerBlog, GRID FAQ, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Mastery Done Better

TL;DR: Class discussions and group work can still be a part of a Grid Method classroom. Use your tracker, or progress monitor, to form groups for discussions or group work. The Grid Method provides opportunities for students to become leaders in the classroom. At first, using The Grid Method can seem like such a radical shift to your classroom structure … Read More

Using Google Classroom to Teach Digital Citizenship

Becky ThalBlog, Manage Better, Tech Better

TL;DR: Google Classroom can be used as a platform to teach digital citizenship. It is important to set clear guidelines and expectations with students for the use of your school’s LMS. These tips and strategies could be applied to any LMS, as well as other tools like Google Meet, Chat, Docs, Slides, and Jamboard. We should continue to give students … Read More

Facilitating Small Group Instruction to Meet Student Needs

Teach Better TeamBlog, Differentiate Better, Manage Better

TL;DR: Small group instruction and one-on-one conferences are possible this year. Five tips to make these types of instruction happen – whether you’re fully virtual or hybrid. In my classroom, like many others, small group instruction is a cornerstone of our structure. In fact, a majority of the teaching I do is done in a small group model. I work … Read More

Visual Supports for Every Classroom

Lindsay TitusBlog, Engage Better, Manage Better

TL;DR: Agendas, contingency maps, and signs are some visual supports to help learners become independent. Decide how to incorporate visuals in your classroom by considering a number of anchoring questions such as: What is the expectation? What needs to be done right now? What is coming next? This post includes links to 3 PDF visuals to use in your classroom. … Read More

Simple Ways To Foster Relationships

Deanna LoughBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Lead Better, Manage Better

TL;DR: Surveying students and the 2×10 strategy are two ways to strengthen relationships with your students. Initiating meaningful conversations with others to foster classroom community. When I first interviewed for teaching positions, I was never asked a single question about how I build classroom community.  I was asked about my philosophy around classroom management (firm, consistent, and fair), and how … Read More