Searching for student engagement tips that will help propel your classroom into what you have always envisioned is a daunting task. You see things that make sense, others that would “never” work, and it’s scary to try to implement something new (am I right?). It makes me sad knowing that teachers who are trying to … Read more
In today’s classroom, especially one that is student-centered, it is important that we have ways to keep our students on task and mindful of their timing. Whether this spans time management on a project over several days or the time remaining in a classroom activity, using a timer for classroom activities is vital in whatever … Read more
When searching for a good student engagement measurement tool, there are a few key pieces to keep in mind. While often student engagement can be measured visually and with mental checklists, having a meaningful student engagement measurement tool will help you not only stay organized but will also help you analyze data to see what’s … Read more
As teachers, we are constantly thinking outside the box to come up with ideas to get our students excited about school. Sometimes they’re a hit, sometimes they’re a HUGE miss, but it doesn’t stop us from trying to come up with some great student engagement event ideas to keep our students “thirsty for more”. Student … Read more
Teachers often get nervous when looking into student-led learning because with the “disappearance” of teacher lecturing, there is much confusion about the role of conversation and discussion in the classroom. Student centered discussion strategies are absolutely vital to have this method of instruction work to its fullest capabilities, and there are several ways to go … Read more
One of the scariest parts of a learner-centered environment is coming up with a plan for student-centered behavior management that coincides with the learning process. It’s not difficult, but it seems like it could be overwhelming. If the premise of student-led learning is to have kids up and moving and making noise, how is there … Read more
We know that peer pressure can be a very negative experience for our students, but can it be used for good? I often discuss the concept of positive peer pressure, and it does, in fact, exist. This often gives me the side-eye as teachers ask, “how can peer pressure be positive and give examples”. As … Read more
We are all about making our lives easier in the classroom, that’s for sure. Finding a great classroom management observation tool is a good step in making this happen. A good classroom management observation tool will be all the difference in executing a classroom management plan that not only works, but you can keep track … Read more
In our classrooms, we are constantly finding ways to create an atmosphere of family. This leaves many teachers searching for the best community building in the classroom activities. These activities go far beyond the typical ice breaker you might decide to play on the first day of school. Community building in the classroom activities should … Read more
All teachers have an idea of what their classroom management goals are. We all have the notion of our picture-perfect classroom, but how can we get there? CAN we even get there? Though no classroom will ever be perfect, you can reach your classroom management goals with a plan in place and the understanding that … Read more
Gamifying education is a huge buzz right now in schools. This doesn’t mean that students spend their time gaming during school as many would believe. Instead, gamifying education allows students to actively engage in content material. One way that many teachers are doing this is by creating classroom management games. Classroom management games can come … Read more
I remember my first year of teaching like it was yesterday. Not only are you trying to figure out all the pieces of your curriculum and school protocol, but you’re also trying to come up with a solid classroom management plan that consistently works. Classroom management for new teachers is especially critical now as teachers … Read more