TL;DR: Our grading habits can be inconsistent and have limited value in the learning process. The extrinsic motivation of grades often limits our students’ drive for deeper learning. Going gradeless is not a simple process, but a worthy one to help students reflect, listen to feedback, and grow. In traditional education systems, grades have long been the primary measure of … Read More
Show 101: Recharging and Reflecting for the New Year
Returning from the winter break marks the unofficial half-way mark of the school year. Ken and Matt talk about the best strategies and ideas to think about as you return from the coveted winter break. There is so much we want to accomplish with students in such a short amount of time. This episode gets a little emotional when Ken … Read More
Show 96: Bonding a Classroom as a Team through Service Projects
Bret Dockter is an incredible educator and it is very apparent why he is the 2022 North Dakota Teacher of the Year. He is focused completely on the students having the best experience possible and turning their energies outward. Each year his sixth grade students dedicate their time, energy, and lessons towards a common service learning project. In This Episode … Read More
Making the First Day Last
TL;DR: Leverage first week get to know yous for long-term relationships. Mini challenges are a great way to observe group dynamics. Create seating charts and small groups based on collective strength. Bring transparency and group sharing to PLCs and admin teams. As teachers, we learn so much about our students in the first six weeks of the school year. We … Read More
What did my students think of my remote teaching during COVID?
This episode, I dive in to the feedback I receive from student’s after my first semester of remote teaching. I address some of the challenges and new methods that came up in the virtual classroom and share how I will refine the process for the future. Like what you hear? Share! Episode links: Lindsay can be found on: … Read More