Promote Creative Thinking Through Passion Projects

Teach Better TeamBlog, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Mastery Done Better, Personalize Student Learning Better

In This Post An overview of passion projects in the classroom. Why you should consider doing a passion project with your students. Suggestions to rethink a unit and approach it as a passion project! Creative thinking is a skill we absolutely want to cultivate. We want our students to think critically and analyze. We want them to assess situations, look … Read More

6 Ways to Promote Authentic Reflection

Teach Better TeamBlog, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Mastery Done Better, Personalize Student Learning Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: The vitality of authentic, real reflection in our classroom. 6 ways to ensure your students’ reflection is authentic. Reflection is a vital part of the learning process. When we encourage our students to look back on their growth and reflect, we are inviting them to see clearly the progress they have made. We are helping develop their metacognition and … Read More

Teaching Through Classroom Leadership

Teach Better TeamBlog, Engage Better, Lead Better, Manage Better

In This Post: The need for a culture of leadership in your classroom in addition to traditional classroom management practices. The need for more authentic, leadership-oriented professional development. The big differences between managing and leading students. Why creating relationships with students gives you greater influence and ability to lead in your classroom. There are 6 words that will change your … Read More

4 Steps to Successful Implementation of a New Idea

Jennifer AppelBlog, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Personalize Student Learning Better

In This Post: Success on New Year’s resolutions rarely ever happens. But why? The “New Year’s resolution” model doesn’t work for educational ideas either. Four steps to successfully implementing the new idea you’re considering. January is often a strange time at my gym. New Year’s Resolutionists show up in droves. They pack into our small yoga studio spaces with their … Read More

Love Louder: Building Authentic Relationships with Students

Teach Better TeamBlog, Engage Better, Lead Better

In This Post: The importance of making sure our students know they are loved. Building relationships should be more than a buzzword–it should be authentic and meaningful. Why you need to find others who will help you grow. Encouragement to challenge practices and do what’s best for kids. The word love seems to be a bit taboo in education. So … Read More