It's getting to be that time of year when things get a little crazy - a little sideways. Students - and teachers - are starting to tune out! So hopefully, these ideas will make these end-of-year days less stressful, and more fun. Plus, these 5 ways to keep students tuned-in at the end-of-the-year are all student-centered and standards-based, so the kiddos stay engaged, and your job is easy. Join me for a fun recap of 5 ways to keep students tuned-in this time of year. Perfect for any secondary education classroom.1) Make It … [Read more...]
Formula for Classroom Success Series Post #3: Interactive and Real-World Strategies
I'm continuing the series today on Classroom Success Strategies. Today's post is a two-in-one tip for interactive and real-world teaching strategies. At the bottom of the post, feel free to link up with your own favorite strategies in the comments section. Link products, ideas, etc.! In the fast-paced world of today's teen, I am always looking for new and different ways to appeal to my students. I don't always expect everything to be fun all the time, but I know that I'll accomplish more if my students are engaged. If you are on the … [Read more...]
Benefits of Using Task Cards in Middle and High School
Using task cards in middle and high school can be hugely successful. Interestingly, I was using "task cards" in my high school English class before I knew they were called that - and way before they looked so cute! If I needed to guide a particular group on a topic or break up the assignment, I would often just grab some colored index cards and a sharpie and begin assigning the tasks, differentiating, or reviewing! Now with the wonderful world of technology :) and access to tons of programs, task cards can come in any form or fashion. Here … [Read more...]
What I Learned about Teaching from a Country Music Concert
Being from Tennessee, I grew up visiting Dollywood theme park and listening to southern gospel music and pretty much anything with a country twang. So when I had the chance to see Dolly in concert just a short drive my own Tennessee mountain home, I seized the opportunity. About that same time frame, another favorite - Jason Aldean - was playing nearby, so I snagged a ticket to his concert as well. I guess you know you are a teacher, though, when… you can’t even go to a concert without having your classroom on the brain. Well, … [Read more...]
Making Learning Interactive: 5 Strategies for the Secondary Classroom
Keeping kids engaged and involved is one thing. Keeping teenagers engaged and involved is a whole other issue. However, interaction of some sort is a staple for just about every day in my classroom to reinforce, review, or revitalize a lesson. Whether it is just a quick conversation with a shoulder partner, a game that requires movement to demonstrate understanding, or a hands-on task, students do appreciate the opportunity to get out of those straight rows for a few minutes. Here are 5 interactive strategies to engage secondary … [Read more...]
