Team Building through Play

BreAnn FennellBlog, Student Engagement

TL;DR: Incorporate team building into your classroom through the game of cup stacking.  You can vary the level of difficulty by giving different challenges like having students use their non-dominant hand, stand on one leg, incorporate exercise if a cup is dropped, or use only non-verbal communication. In this time of need for mental health education, I had an urge to … Read More

The Grid Method FAQ Series

Kari PitstickBlog, Classroom Management, Lesson Planning, Mastery Learning, The Grid Method

Series Overview The Grid Method is an instructional framework designed to meet the needs of each learner in every classroom. You can start implementing this method for mastery learning at any point during the school year! The Grid Method FAQ Series includes posts about everything you need to get started with implementing The Grid, including commonly asked questions by members … Read More

What Is the Grid Method?

Chad OstrowskiBlog, Classroom Management, Lesson Planning, Mastery Learning, The Grid Method

TL;DR: The Grid Method is an instructional framework that meets the needs of all learners in every classroom. Grids should be aligned with standards, tiered to meet student needs, and create cohesive and engaging learning experiences. Teachers monitor student progress for interventions, to form small groups, for reteaching, and to provide real-time feedback. A Simple Goal After seeing The Grid … Read More

How do you structure class while using the Grid?

Teach Better TeamBlog, Classroom Management, Lesson Planning, Mastery Learning, The Grid Method

TL;DR: Structuring class time while using The Grid Method involves incorporating a warm-up and time for goal setting, a mini-lesson, conferencing, wrap-up, and reflection. Tasks assigned to students should be relevant, meaningful, and allow them to take ownership of their learning. For folks new to The Grid Method, one of the things they struggle with most is trying to understand … Read More

How do I monitor student progress?

Chad OstrowskiBlog, Classroom Management, Lesson Planning, Mastery Learning, The Grid Method

TL;DR: When implementing a Grid, it is important to have a plan to monitor student progress. There are many ways to utilize your progress monitor, including creating small groups, planning intervention, identifying gaps or areas for growth, peer-to-peer tutoring, targeted questioning, or planning instruction. Prepare to monitor student progress by building the right culture and enhancing your progress monitor. “Knowing … Read More