Using Read-Alouds to Boost Inquiry

Daniel LindstromBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better

TL;DR: Reading aloud enhances inquiry-centered learning and fosters joy in the classroom. It improves vocabulary, models fluent reading, and benefits auditory learners. Active listening during read-alouds promotes self-awareness, social-emotional learning, and positive associations with reading, especially beneficial for older students. Reading texts aloud to your students—no matter what their age or independent reading level—is a great way to intensify inquiry-centered … Read More

3 Questions For Curriculum Design Teams

Steven WeberBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better

TL;DR: Traditional curriculum focuses on content coverage, but shifts are needed towards prioritizing student learning over teaching. Identifying common misunderstandings aids in adapting instruction, fostering deeper understanding for diverse learners. Ownership of learning must shift from teacher-led activities to student agency, with emphasis on transferable understanding for real-world application. 3 Questions For Curriculum Design Teams Traditional teaching focuses on content, … Read More

6 Path-Breaking Benefits of Virtual Reality in Education!

Aanya KapoorBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Lesson Plan Better

TL;DR: VR revolutionizes education by offering immersive learning experiences, transforming traditional teaching methods into interactive and engaging lessons. It enhances engagement by allowing students to experience subjects firsthand, significantly improving retention compared to conventional methods. VR benefits all students, including those with disabilities, making education more inclusive and accessible while also providing cost-effective alternatives to traditional resources like textbooks and … Read More

3.14 Fun and Engaging Pi Day Activities

Suzanne RogersBlog, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better

TL;DR: Pi Day is celebrated on March 14th (3/14). It provides a great chance to engage students with tailored activities for different grade levels. Elementary school activities include Pi Day Storytime, creating a pi chain for memorization, and exploring circle art inspired by Russian artist Kandinsky. Middle school activities involve a Pi Day Scavenger Hunt and a Pi Memorization Contest. … Read More

Using the Grid Method to Teach Real-World Skills

Lisa JonesBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Mastery Done Better

TL;DR: The author’s favorite unit focuses on imparting practical job skills in an Exploring Careers course, acknowledging the universal need for employment preparation. Using the Grid Method, the unit progresses through levels, starting with basics, incorporating real-life examples in level two, and culminating in assessments and simulations at level three. Emphasizing the importance of real-world connections, the author encourages educators … Read More