The picture of an entire class lost in their work is the most beautiful sight in teaching. Because it’s irrefutable proof that your lesson was effective, and that learning, deep and meaningful, is taking place. Sadly, it’s a scene that rarely plays out. Most … Read more
Teaching is important, to be sure. But if you’re not careful, this fact can weigh heavily. It can cause you to wrap an unhealthy amount of your identity into your job. It can cause you to be distracted around your friends and family. It … Read more
If not reminded, and reminded often, your students will naturally slip into believing that school is just something they’re supposed to do. They never consider that school doesn’t need them, individually anyway, but that they need school. So many students approach their education as … Read more
Teachers who struggle with classroom management tend to carry the weight of the world on their shoulders. They’re burdened with the need to walk, talk, correct, cajole, and remind their students through every this and every that. They’re saddled with having to remain on … Read more
So you teach this great lesson. Your students are really into it. They’re listening and participating. Their eyes are bright and inquisitive. They pass all your checks for understanding with flying colors. But as soon as you finish and give the signal for them … Read more
Because we care. This is why it touches our heart to see our students upset or crestfallen. This is why when they bomb a math test or bury their head in their arms over another behavior regression, we seek to soften the blow. We … Read more
It’s frustrating. You spend your entire prep-hour strategically placing students into groups. You teach, model, and role-play what you want them to do. You assign roles, provide clear objectives, and confirm their understanding of your expectations. You give them all the support you know … Read more
It’s frustrating. You start your class working on an independent project, a writing assignment, or a rotation of centers, then begin quietly calling selected students for small-group instruction. And for the first few minutes it goes well. But just as you settle in and … Read more