Envisioning a “New Normal”

Brandi KellyBlog, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Personalize Student Learning Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Blended learning promotes student ownership and helps to address the needs of different styles of learners. A successful example of blended learning at Sangamon Valley Middle School offers the best of both worlds. The shortcomings vs. benefits of blended learning are explored. Envisioning a New Normal: Imagine the Possibilities The pandemic has created a great deal of angst for … Read More

Better Than YouTube – Rae Hughart TEDxNormal

Rae HughartBlog, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Lesson Plan Better, Mastery Done Better, Personalize Student Learning Better, Video(s)

Video Highlights: Rae shares the importance of teachers in the classroom. Teachers are better than YouTube—they can foster discussion, facilitate reflection, and ensure learning is not only consumed but experienced. Teachers can ask deeper questions and follow up with personalized feedback. [scroll down to keep reading] About Rae Hughart Rae Hughart is a Middle-Level Math Educator in Illinois, the Chief … Read More

The Teacher’s Role in the Grid Method

Teach Better TeamBlog, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Mastery Done Better, Personalize Student Learning Better

TL;DR: One teacher’s experience using the grid method. A focused look at the role of the teacher in the grid method. “So you don’t really teach anymore.”  “The students teach themselves.” “When will I get to see you teach?”  In implementing the grid method, I’ve heard them all and I’ve heard them a lot.  So what is teaching and what … Read More

How Creative Are You? Can You Create Better?

Debbie TannenbaumBlog, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Personalize Student Learning Better

TL;DR: A reflection from Adobe Creative Educator Day. Lessons on improving creativity for yourself AND your students. At the end of February, I got the opportunity to attend the Adobe Creative Educator Day. I  thought I understood creativity before that day, but it turned out that I only understood a small aspect of it. This was an entire day dedicated to … Read More

Management with the Grid: How to Keep Kids Motivated

Andrea KalchbennerBlog, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Lead Better, Manage Better, Mastery Done Better, Personalize Student Learning Better

TL;DR: The Grid method can seem like a huge change, but there are some consistencies with a traditional approach. A teacher shares some strategies for management and engagement with the Grid. “How do you keep kids motivated?!” This question pops up over and over again for educators.  It does not matter whether you teach elementary or high school, or if … Read More