Boosting Student Engagement in the Spring

Rachelle Dené PothBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better

TL;DR: Trying new ideas at the end of the school year can increase student engagement and help retain content. Versatile methods like choice boards, creativity tools, game-based learning, and interactive lessons boost engagement and curiosity. Incorporating student input, STEM activities, and problem-solving challenges further enhance learning experiences and promote essential skills development. Why try new ideas? With the school year … Read More

Kids Do Better When They Are Excited to Learn

Bobbie FrenchBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better

TL;DR: Creating a culture of excitement leads to a positive learning environment that encourages collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking. Excitement is contagious. Learn 7 ways to create an enthusiastic environment and 7 ways to create an enthusiastic lesson. Spend time laughing with your students; it is essential to creating a warm and positive classroom culture where students feel comfortable and … Read More

Episode 2 – 7 Types of Lesson Plans to the Second Half of Your Year So Much Fun

Jeanette MihalchikHappy Music Teacher

7 Types of Lesson Plans to Make the Second Half of Your Year So Much Fun Review Transitions and Procedures by incorporating them into your lessons. Icebreakers Form lessons All play around the circle using Orff instruments Review the last skill you were working on before break Do a movement activity that teaches a music skill Use body percussion or … Read More

Episode 46: A Next Level Conversation with Jonathan Alsheimer

Darrin PeppardLeaning Into Leadership

What does authentic student engagement look like? How should schools work to tell their story? What can today’s school leaders do to help teachers right now? Tune in to an awesome conversation with middle school teacher and speaker Jonathan Alsheimer to find out. That, plus your #PepTalk and more on this week’s show.   MORE EPISODES

Game-Based Learning: Evaluating Math Games

Teach Better TeamBlog, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Tech Better

TL;DR: Game-based learning is a great way to engage students in exploring a math concept in a new way. Not all free (or even paid) math games are created with equal care and research. Math games have an incredible opportunity to affect students’ mindsets about math, confidence in their abilities, perseverance, grit, and so much more. However, not all math … Read More