TL;DR: When implementing a Grid, it is important to have a plan to monitor student progress. There are many ways to utilize your progress monitor, including creating small groups, planning intervention, identifying gaps or areas for growth, peer-to-peer tutoring, targeted questioning, or planning instruction. Prepare to monitor student progress by building the right culture and enhancing your progress monitor. “Knowing … Read More
How can I facilitate class discussions and group work?
TL;DR: Class discussions and group work can still be a part of a Grid Method classroom. Use your tracker, or progress monitor, to form groups for discussions or group work. The Grid Method provides opportunities for students to become leaders in the classroom. At first, using The Grid Method can seem like such a radical shift to your classroom structure … Read More
Why I left the classroom
A difficult choice. Leaving the classroom was one of the most difficult things I’ve ever done. Making the decision was one of the hardest I’ve ever made. Not only did I have to say goodbye to my colleagues, my administrators, and the mentors who had guided me throughout my career, but I had to leave my students. I say “MY” … Read More
Focus on your Students Learning Today, Not Your Plans for Tomorrow.
Teachers have crazy schedules, and if you ask any of them one thing they want more of, the answer will undoubtably be TIME. We’re always looking for more time. More time to grade papers. More time to spend with our students. And, if you’re like me, more time to plan for tomorrow. When I was a first-year teacher, this was … Read More
The Power of “Genius” in Your Classroom
If you’re like me, you spend a lot of time, money, and effort trying to figure out how to reach the bottom 10% of our students in your classroom. Honestly, it’s a great place to expend your resources because those are the students who probably need it most. However, when we shift all our focus this way, a lot of students who may be … Read More