Food for Thought: Shrimp Scampi and Standards-Based Grading

Alex T. ValencicBlog, Grade Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Standards-based grading is like shrimp scampi: great when done right, frustrating when done poorly. It is essential to understand what stands-based grading is if we are going to use it to make a difference. Insist on quality professional learning and ongoing support to make sure SBG is implemented with integrity. One of my wife’s favourite dishes to order whenever … Read More

AI 101: Tips and Tools for Teachers

Mason NicholsBlog, Differentiate Better, Grade Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better

TL;DR: This post explores the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. AI tools that can be used in education include MagicSchool, Diffit, Eduaide, SchoolAI, and Brisk Teaching. Some features of AI that can be used in education are email assistance, curated educational content, gamification, AI “assistants,” and reading level adjustments. AI in Education Over the past year, we have … Read More

Tapestry of Formative Assessment

Suzanne RogersBlog, Engage Better, Grade Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Formative assessment is vital for effective teaching, offering real-time insights into student progress. Tom Schimmer advocates for diverse approaches, including thoughtful questioning, Socratic seminars, and one-on-one conferencing. Peer reviews, interactive technology, and strategies like think-pair-share enrich formative assessments, promoting collaboration and critical thinking. Tapestry of Formative Assessment Formative assessment is a tapestry and the heartbeat of effective teaching, offering … Read More

But They Won’t Do It if I Don’t Grade It

Mike SzczepanikBlog, Engage Better, Grade Better, Lesson Plan Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Change is hard. Assignment completion is a concern for some if there are no grades. Numerous factors affect student motivation. Not all students are motivated by grades. The carrot-and-stick motivational technique worked for the industrial revolution. Previously, I had discussed my reasons for breaking free from grades. While there are many benefits to going gradeless, there are also some … Read More

The ChatGPT Debate

Teach Better TeamBlog, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Grade Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Tech Better

TL;DR: AI has been around for a while. The use of ChatGPT is just another evolution in the classroom. Takeaways from the Teach Better Ambassador Voxer group are shared. Learn how ChatGPT answered this question: How can we use this tool to help us with teaching and learning? The ChatGPT Debate: How can we embrace AI without feeling like we … Read More