TL;DR: The purpose of conferencing is generally to discuss a student’s strengths and weaknesses. A structure for effective conferencing with large classes is shared. Questions to ask during conferences can include: What are your questions? In what way can I help you? What will you improve on? Unfortunately, while I had some great teachers in the past (both K-12 and post-secondary), … Read More
Teaching Organizational Skills to Virtual Students
TL;DR: For students, being able to organize one’s schedule and keeping track of assignments is a life skill. Being organized is a learned skill that takes some students more time to conquer than others. Students should feel accomplished after mastering organization skills, especially in virtual school. This post includes PDF copies of virtual organizers for students. As a former educator, … Read More
Thriving (Not Just Surviving) as a New Teacher
TL;DR: Consider your why to prevent yourself from feeling burned out. Pay attention to what gives you joy and be sure to give back to yourself. Be proactive with your time by scheduling necessary tasks then looking at what you want to do. Be sure to also consider your long-term goals. The secret to thriving as a new teacher is being … Read More
Top 5 Missing Pieces to Effective Behavior Plans
TL;DR: Write effective behavior plans by involving the student in making decisions. Understand the plans are for the adults, consider the skills to be learned by the student, find the function, and consider fading the plan as a top priority. Behavior plans are more effective when educators understand these points. As a behavior specialist, I am involved in the writing … Read More
Tired of Teaching to a Blank Screen? Start Teaching with Empathy
TL;DR: The decrease in interaction and participation rate with students in a virtual setting has been an issue but when we plan with empathy, it may make a difference. Make lessons more interesting or entertaining by adding music in the beginning or during your lesson, turning students into active participants by giving them a role, providing breaks or sending students … Read More