The Power of Reflection and Connection to Assessments

Vernon WrightBlog, Grade Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Assessment is a time for students to reflect on what has been shared with them. Assessments can take all shapes and forms. Ultimately, what we want is for students to share their thoughts and understandings. Continue to reflect and assess your own life and challenge yourself to meet goals. It was a great honor to have been a guest … Read More

Classroom Management Is Not Just About Rules

Kristen KoppersBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Grade Better, Manage Better

TL;DR: Classroom management is not just about rules. Make students feel valued and successful as individuals in your class. Teach responsibility through natural situations that arise in your classroom. Model clear communication in your feedback to students. Effective Classroom Management We have always heard the phrase “effective classroom management” either from colleagues or administrators, but what does that entail? Classroom … Read More

Grades, Feedback, and Assessments

Kristen KoppersBlog, Grade Better, Personalize Student Learning Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: The focus in school is frequently on the grades received rather than the skills obtained. Feedback and the improvement of skills should be valued more. We all need to work together to create this change. In 2015, I attended the “What Great Educators Do Differently” conference with my colleague in education and best friend. I attended a session by … Read More

Reconsider Your Expectations

Jillian DuBoisBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Grade Better, Lesson Plan Better

TL;DR: Believing in students and setting high expectations for them can help them be successful. Find ways to get your students interested. Make sure the lessons and activities you are teaching are relevant. Know what your end goal is and makes sure it is clear to your students, too. Provide opportunities for your students to reflect on their own work. … 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