3 Strategies to Boost Students’ Speaking and Writing Skills

Stephan HughesBlog, Differentiation, Leadership, Lesson Planning, Student Engagement

TL;DR: Substitution tables are a helpful tool for students to practice using different words and expressions. They also help improve their vocabulary and confidence in English communication. Pre-teaching lexical bundles and collocations aids vocabulary and fluency development. They familiarize students with common word groups and natural phrase combinations. Assigning timed speaking and writing activities encourages clear and efficient expression. This … Read More

Supporting Today’s Learners

Colissa JordanBlog, Differentiation, Innovation, Leadership, Lesson Planning, Student Engagement

TL;DR: There is a comparison between cooking appliances and education methods, contrasting microwave learning (traditional) with air fryer learning (constructivist). In traditional learning, teachers are the main source of knowledge and focus on student compliance, while constructivist learning emphasizes student engagement, collaboration, and connecting learning to real-life experiences. Teachers in today’s classrooms are encouraged to be guides and mentors, creating … Read More

My Hypothesis on Assessment

Tim StephensonBlog, Lesson Planning, Reflect Better, Student Engagement

TL;DR: Assessment is a hot topic in all schools. Before looking at assessments, look at your teaching. What are you doing that makes learning relevant for all students? My Hypothesis on Assessment Well, it certainly has been a while since I last wrote a blog post here at Teach Better. For much of this school year, I’ve been focusing on … Read More

STEM and STEAM Are a Part of Your Everyday Life

Becky SchnekserBlog, Classroom Management, Innovation, Lesson Planning, Student Engagement

TL;DR: STEM and STEAM are integral to our everyday life and we encounter many challenges that require these skills. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, while STEAM adds Art or Architecture. A problem with a door latch at home is an example of STEM and STEAM in action, involving science, technology, engineering, art/architecture, and mathematics. We can intentionally … Read More

Centering Culture in Learning

Becky SchnekserBlog, Classroom Management, Differentiation, Leadership, Lesson Planning, Student Engagement

TL;DR: Centering culture in learning experiences is important and should be a priority for all educators. The book “Unpack Your Impact” by Naomi O’Brien and LaNesha Tabb is a great resource for learning and implementing cultural inclusion in the classroom. Centering culture goes beyond surface-level activities and should be seamlessly integrated into practices. Culture is an integral part of identity … Read More