TL;DR: Engage in reflection in December and try not to get overwhelmed by the swirl of activities. Look at your calendar for December NOW. What events will not bring you joy? Decide to skip those. Purposely and purposefully unplug at least one day this month. It’s the most wonderful time of the year…kinda. December is a funny month when you … Read More
Rest Happier
TL;DR: Many teachers have a rest deficit at this time of the year. There are seven types of rest to ensure we are included in our routine. What type of rest do you crave most? What will you change in your routine? We are in a rest deficit. Ever wake up after a good night’s sleep and still feel exhausted? … Read More
The Power of Reflection and Connection to Assessments
TL;DR: Assessment is a time for students to reflect on what has been shared with them. Assessments can take all shapes and forms. Ultimately, what we want is for students to share their thoughts and understandings. Continue to reflect and assess your own life and challenge yourself to meet goals. It was a great honor to have been a guest … Read More
Setting Up ISNBs and ISJs Part 2: Procedures
TL;DR: This post shares procedures and tips for using ISNBs and ISJs. Make a classroom notebook, use a table of contents, and make the pages fit to the composition notebook. Conduct weekly notebook checks. Remember the Purpose of an ISNB/ISJ In a recent Science Better blog post, I wrote about why I use an interactive science notebook (ISNB) and an … Read More
Classroom Management Is Not Just About Rules
TL;DR: Classroom management is not just about rules. Make students feel valued and successful as individuals in your class. Teach responsibility through natural situations that arise in your classroom. Model clear communication in your feedback to students. Effective Classroom Management We have always heard the phrase “effective classroom management” either from colleagues or administrators, but what does that entail? Classroom … Read More
