Student Conferencing with a Focus on the Focus

Dave SchmittouBlog, Grade Better, Lesson Plan Better, Video(s)

Student Conferencing with a Focus on the Focus  Video Highlights: Use “we” instead of “you” during student conferences. Celebrate growth rather than “got it” moments. When it comes to student conferencing, don’t judge, just support. See the full series here! [scroll down to keep reading] About Dave Schmittou Entering his twenty-first year in education, Dave has earned a reputation … Read More

5 Thought-Provoking Questions About Assessment

Steven WeberBlog, Grade Better, Lesson Plan Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Teaching and learning should be framed around a desired set of learning targets. Identify how teachers will measure student understanding. The classroom should be a safe place where students are receiving feedback from their teacher, peers, and own reflections. 4 key reflection questions to consider before and after a unit are shared. Find ways to celebrate small wins in … Read More

Tips & Tricks Blog Series Overview

Kari PitstickBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Grade Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Mastery Done Better, Teach Happier

Tips & Tricks Blog Series Overview The COVID-19 / Coronavirus Pandemic has changed so much about how we live our lives, socialize, and especially how we run our schools and classrooms. As we begin the next school year, things are different – but we can be better. As you continue to navigate the details for next school year, we need … Read More

3 Suggestions to Make Evaluation More Meaningful

PJ CaposeyBlog, Connect Better, Grade Better, Lead Better

TL;DR: Reduce the teacher evaluation pressure by investing in more conversations and more time in classrooms. See tips for how to make a pre-conference more meaningful. Praise heaping, rating justification, and point proving are three conference styles. The best solution is to give 2-3 key goals for improvement. If anything, last year seemed to be EVERYTHING. I like to say … Read More

4 Tips to Reimagine Assessment

Dave SchmittouBlog, Grade Better, Lead Better, Mastery Done Better

TL;DR: Assessment should be a series of events, each leading to the next moment of improvement. Reimagine assessment by determining what you value and seeking assessment that leads to instruction. Understand that “one and done” is not enough and consider consistency and recency when assessing. As I am writing this, March Madness is ramping up. It is my favorite time … Read More