Elementary Mastery Grid Tips and Tricks

Amanda BolonBlog, Classroom Management, Differentiation, Lesson Planning, Mastery Learning

TL;DR: The Grid Method can work for any age group, including elementary-aged students. Create your grid with your students in mind. Set up a thoughtful learning environment. Maximize learning time. Be flexible and reach out for help if you need it. The Grid Method is the premiere solution in the world of mastery learning. Educators from around the world are … Read More

ISJ and ISNB Introduction

Teach Better TeamBlog, Differentiation, Innovation, Lesson Planning, Mastery Learning, Personalized Learning, Student Engagement, Teach Further

 TL;DR: Science is a messy process that leads to understanding. Students need to learn and appreciate the messy process in addition to the end result. Interactive science journals (ISJ) and interactive science notebooks (ISNB) are tools that will help students understand the difference between the process and the end result. “Take chances, make mistakes, get MESSY!” – Ms. Frizzle, The … Read More

Approaching the Upcoming School Year

David FrangiosaBlog, Differentiation, Grading & Assessment, Lesson Planning, Mastery Learning

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

Going Gradeless: A Book Study Reflection

Teach Better TeamBlog, Grading & Assessment, Lesson Planning, Mastery Learning, Reflect Better

TL;DR: This post includes reflections on a book study of Going Gradeless: Shifting the Focus to Student Learning by Elise Burns and David Frangiosa. This book provided insights about how you can shift the focus from grades to student learning! Each member of the book study shares their biggest takeaways from the book. This past month I had the pleasure … Read More

Focus on the Focus Blog Series Overview

Kari PitstickBlog, Grading & Assessment, Mastery Learning

Focus on the Focus Blog Series Overview The Focus on the Focus Blog Series offers grading, assessment, and feedback support for educators! Learn more about purposeful student conferencing and refocusing your assessments with student understanding in mind. In addition, get simple tips to improve your grading practices! Posts in the Series Student Conferencing with a Focus on the Focus (Video Blog) … Read More