The 3 C’s of Curriculum Leadership

Steven WeberBlog, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Grade Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Our world is changing and we need to stay relevant. Curriculum leaders help us narrow our focus. School leaders should be able to curate resources to help with various situations. Allow student choice. Make sure to have common formative assessments. Our Changing World The world is changing and the rapid pace of change is impacting teaching and learning. A … Read More

Must Be Nice | Tony Reibel | Get Them Talking

Tom SchimmerThe Tom Schimmer Podcast

In Don’t @ Me (2:34), Tom opens by sharing why “must be nice” is the most condescending phrase anyone can use. Then, Tom is joined by author and colleague Tony Reibel (11:11) to discuss his latest book, “Small Changes, Big Impact: 10 Strategies to Promote Student Efficacy and Lifelong Learning.” Finally, in Assessment Corner (45:19), Tom talks about the single … Read More

5 Scandals in Education

Steven WeberBlog, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Grade Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Scandals exist in schools. Teachers and administrators must analyze their schools to see if they exist or have the potential to develop. There are 5 scandals in education: low expectations, lack of instructional leadership, culture does not emphasize formative assessment, curriculum alignment is left to chance, and students are not required to think. Throughout history, scandals have been documented. … Read More

Association isn’t Causation | Ken O’Connor | Teach to the Test

Tom SchimmerThe Tom Schimmer Podcast

In Don’t @ Me (3:34), Tom discusses a few highlights from the book, “Calling Bullshit” and how they remind him of some important principles in education. Then, Tom is joined by Ken O’Connor (16:00) to discuss his journey from Melbourne to Toronto, to talk assessment & grading (of course), and to learn about his illustrious Field Hockey umpiring career!. Finally, … Read More

Using Formative Assessments to Guide Instruction

Teach Better TeamBlog, Grade Better

TL;DR: Formative assessments help teachers effectively plan and guide instruction. It also helps to understand students better in terms of whether they are on track, need support, or a challenge. Likely, you’ll need to plan for differentiated instruction to meet the needs of your students, individually or as a class. There are many formative assessment options: Do-nows & bell ringers, … Read More