TL;DR: We need to foster a safe learning environment for students and ourselves. Focus on the students, not your subject area. Ask what’s going on before you correct a student. Write a welcoming message on your board daily and greet students using their name. Check in once a week with kids to see what you might want to change in … Read More
Can Learning Science Help Close Covid Learning Gaps?
TL;DR: Learning new skills or content is hard, and COVID has made it even harder. But learning science can help. When learning something new, information enters our working memory system, but often isn’t stored in long-term memory. Passive learning strategies (like re-rereading material) do not help us retain information, but retrieval practice does. Retrieval practice involves the recollection or resurfacing … Read More
When You Feel Lost: Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone
TL;DR: Even when we feel lost, we actually are just stepping outside of our comfort zone. Recognize that moving forward may not always be in a linear form. Review your values. Do something unexpected and allow your body and mind to experience the adventure you’re ready for! Where to Begin? Oh my goodness. Where to even begin. Lately, I’ve felt … Read More
Helping Students Feel Safe, Seen, & Stretched in the Classroom
TL;DR: What do teachers say and do to make a lasting impact on students’ lives? What people remember most about their teachers is the way those teachers made them feel. Memorable teachers make students feel safe, seen, and stretched. Julie joined Dave on the Daily Drop In to chat about her research. Click here to watch! Let’s Chat About A … Read More
Recasting Language: I Was Brooming The Mess!
TL;DR: Celebrate what students are doing in their language development. Recast their language by acknowledging the strengths they have while modeling correct usage. As educators, we are constantly checking in on our students and their progress. We are always looking at ways to support our students in their academic, linguistic, and social-emotional growth. Our brains are almost wired to pinpoint … Read More