Most kids want to engage, many have been taught there is nothing to engage with. You need to be the teacher who re-awakens that natural wonder. It’s kind of like a dare: are you up for it? I triple dog dare you ;) Okay, now that the obvious elephant in the roomhas been identified, let’s get to those three techniques
Most teachers I talk to agree the beginning of the year is the time to establish authority, rules, and expectations. What they don’t all agree on is how to do it.
I used to push myself to get things done asap. When I would see other people weren’t done, I would say to myself, “See I am so much better than them.” I have come to respect the person who is not done more now because they had the wisdom to stop, gather ideas, and come back later with better ideas.
One example of a tip for new teachers: Remember to check for understanding all the time. Ask kids if they get what you are saying. The old “hear it and hold it” method is far outdated. Don’t get to the end of your lesson without bringing at least 80% of them with you.
Thinking of good questions, instead of answers, can make a teacher more effective
I really believe you can go miles farther as a teacher if you use recognition for students. Here are some reasons why and a few ways I use recognition in the classroom.
I want to give teachers credit for something they do every year that most the public doesn’t know they do: Decorating their classroom walls.
I’ve modified curriculum and innovated strategies that utilize A/V and interactive tools (like white boards) to achieve more than paper ever did. EDI is a great method to use in a paperless lesson.
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The title here is a bit lengthy and academic but my podcast this week is down to earth I think. To be a better, more effective “dynamite” teacher, one needs to be understood. I discuss this concept and why communicators like Mr. Rodgers are effective and not considered boring. This is even [...]
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