Some people believe that teaching is a science, while others believe that it is an art. I believe that it is both. Years of studies have been done on best teaching practices that help students achieve their highest potential. Yet, we teachers still struggle to implement these practices because they are often shrink wrapped in one size fit all curriculums. As teachers we are often told to make sure that we have our pulse … [Read more...] about How Do I Write A Mini Lesson?
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Keeping Kids Accountable During Independent Reading
Reader’s workshop is a wonderful framework that allows readers to flourish, but it can also breed a sense of anxiety when it comes to the idea of holding students accountable for the time they spend reading during the workshop. This anxiety is heightened by being relegated to being virtual and or hybrid. Create the Culture I want to point out that my favorite way to address the idea of accountability is that of creating a … [Read more...] about Keeping Kids Accountable During Independent Reading
4 Tips For Virtual Mini Lessons
The shift to virtual learning has changed a lot of aspects of teaching. It has left us asking ourselves, how do you get 20 little boxes on the screen to interact with me? Nothing could have prepared us to teach students who can turn off their cameras or refuse to unmute their microphones. To say nothing of the sometimes blank stares you get during a lesson that you thought you had prepared well for. I’m here with a few tips to help … [Read more...] about 4 Tips For Virtual Mini Lessons
My Mini Lesson Was A Bust…Now What?
Sometimes no matter how well you plan, your mini lesson may not land the way you envisioned. Many factors could be at play but regardless you’re left with a mini lesson that needs to be retaught. The first thing you want to do is look over your template and try to pinpoint where in the lesson you saw students start to lose focus or understanding of the lesson. Then think back to your original objective and ask yourself: What was the original … [Read more...] about My Mini Lesson Was A Bust…Now What?
