Group items tagged

How to balance technology and key skill development

How to handle the writing load - comments to students

"Whole-class novels are the white powdered doughnuts of the education world. We eat them when they are all that's available, but virtually no one would choose them when given other choices like chocolate eclairs, bear claws, or lemon-filled pockets of gooey goodness. No one bites into a white powdered doughnut and rolls back their eyes because of the taste explosion in their mouths. And are there any white powdered doughnuts in existence that are not completely stale? I think not."

"There are a variety of tech tools and methods out there for teaching writing that can make the process easier and more fun for both teachers and students. While not every high-tech way of teaching writing will work for every class or every student, there's enough variety that there's bound to be something for everyone."

"At the end of the day, I'm the kind of English teacher who struggles to reconcile an interior struggle between a traditional book snob and an anarchic punk rocker."

A "Connected Educators Month" in the United States - the rapid rise of Twitter PD - the coming of age of the Personal Learning Network. No question: It's been an historic year for connected professionals, including PLP's extended family of teacher and school leaders.

How an AP teacher uses Google Drive successfully.

"When it comes to creating a community of writers, there is no perfect formula. Trial and error, as well as a few specific steps, may help you begin the process in your classroom, no matter what subject matter or age you teach. Like every other worthy endeavor, writing requires practice. That's why from day one, students should see writing as an integral part of your class. You might even consider incorporating writing into your ice-breaker. Have your students mimic a poem, do a random autobiography, or draft scavenger hunt questions. Let students experience variety and choice. They shouldn't craft only formal, academic papers in your class. They should see that writing fits a variety of purposes and patterns. Online blogs, creative writing, written instructions, and other forms of written expression should be part of your curriculum."

"Help stressed out, anxious, teenagers with social and emotional learning."

"An assignment that focuses on learning gains rather than losses can get the new year off to a good start."