The Power of a Pen

Teach Better TeamBlog, Classroom Management, Lesson Planning, Student Engagement

TL;DR: A pen teaches students that mistakes are learning opportunities. It gives students time to pause and think before they write. It empowers students by providing them with skills they can use throughout their lives. Every December, I gave a present to my students. Yes, I taught middle school. Yes, I had over 100 students each year. And yes, it … Read More

The Gift of Passion

Livia ChanBlog, Differentiation, Self-Care, Student Engagement

TL;DR: When you enter your state of flow, the passage of time does not seem to feel accurate. Discover your passion and allow yourself to pursue it. It’s a great avenue for self-care. The goal is for students to discover and pursue their passions through Passion Projects. The passion for learning is a gift we hope to instill in students … Read More

The Gift of Happiness: 6 Keys to Cultivating Happiness

Livia ChanBlog, Classroom Management, Reflect Better, Self-Care, Student Engagement, Teach Happier

TL;DR: Happiness can be cultivated in simple ways in the classroom. There are 6 keys to cultivating happiness. Happiness is a mindset and a heartset. It is a gift you can give to yourself and others. Happiness is something you can protect. In my experience, when I ask young children how they feel, many will say “happy.” When I ask the … Read More