Classroom Spaces

Teach Better TeamBlog, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Students respond better to classroom spaces that are interactive and encourage exploration, movement, and collaboration. Students learn science better through instruction that allows them to have access to the entire classroom space when inspiration strikes. Consider taking the time to honestly reflect on your classroom space to make it more engaging to your students. How are you using your … Read More

Teacher Mindsets that Matter for Multilingual Learners

Carly SpinaBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better, Self Care Better

TL;DR: The beginning of the school year gives us an opportunity for a fresh start. Instead of a negative mindset, identify student’s passions and interests, and how we utilize those to empower students.  We can have some fresh mindsets about unmotivated students, lack of support at home, and students without a dominant language. Mindsets to embrace are linguistic inclusivity, want … Read More

Approaching the Upcoming School Year

David FrangiosaBlog, Differentiate Better, Grade Better, Lesson Plan Better, Mastery Done Better

TL;DR: Shift the focus to the development of skills. Content is still important, but it’s just not the purpose of the course. Develop a framework and common language to use during the feedback process. Limit feedback to a specific part of the assignment. When used appropriately, whole class feedback is a valuable tool. Provide multiple practice opportunities to every student … Read More

Educate Like Ants – Be Relentless

Livia ChanBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Ants appear to roam anywhere and everywhere outside but when they come inside your home, their purpose becomes more evident. Ants are strong and tenacious. Educators can learn by studying them and being more like them. They know their WHY. Do you? If you haven’t thought about your WHY in a while, it’s time to revisit and rediscover. It … Read More

Leading Through Instructional Practices

Chad OstrowskiBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lead Better

TL;DR: While educators with formal leadership roles are often seen as the leaders, teachers who lead through instructional practices they initiate themselves have the most impact. Innovation in the classroom leads to change and a model of success in your classroom that others take notice of. Proudly share your successes and failures with others through discussions to affect change. We … Read More