The Gift of Gratitude

Livia ChanBlog, Classroom Management, Reflect Better, Student Engagement

TL;DR: There is a difference between gratitude and thankfulness in both English and Chinese languages. Gratitude can be cultivated. Practice mindful gratitude moments to help nurture a grateful mindset and heartset. Take the Gift Better Challenge to practice gratitude.  There is great power in words. Read tips on how to show deeper gratitude with our words. Gratitude is meant to … Read More

Building Capacity by Letting Go

Martin SilvermanBlog, Classroom Management, Differentiation, Leadership, Reflect Better

TL;DR: A few decades ago, children were given the freedom to play with less adult intervention. They learned how to self-regulate and problem solve on their own. Now, adults quickly jump in to provide solutions to every problems. We have disempowered children by controlling many aspects of their day. Snowplow parents smooth the way for their children by removing possible … Read More

Reframe Your Misunderstandings

Jillian DuBoisBlog, Classroom Management, Reflect Better, Self-Care

TL;DR: Misunderstandings happen. Without clarity, we naturally react but it doesn’t have to end on a negative note. We can have control over the situation. You may be feeling fear. Consider your part in the misunderstanding. Accept there is a misunderstanding. Look for lessons learned from it. Reach out for support from trusted friends. Move on. Another day, another misunderstanding. … Read More

Learn HOW to Differentiate in Teaching

Kristen KoppersBlog, Classroom Management, Differentiation, Lesson Planning

TL;DR: Rather than modify assignments to differentiate instruction, change how we teach to ensure students understand the material. Not all students learn in the same way. We need to recognize when to change how we teach the lesson. We need to know our students and support them. With differentiated instruction, it is possible to meet the learning styles of all students. … Read More

Planning Plinko

Martin SilvermanBlog, Classroom Management, Differentiation, Innovation, Lesson Planning, Reflect Better, Student Engagement

TL;DR: Sometimes teachers plan lessons or units that are disconnected to their desired student outcomes, like the Plinko effect. It’s important that you consider the pegs and barriers that exist with your students. It’s better to look at individuals and groups of students, and determine how to remove barriers so that the chip can fall into the desired slot.  The … Read More