tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24366557045541124622024-02-20T07:48:05.672-08:00A Lesson Plan for TeachersA Blog Based on the Book for New & Experienced TeachersMichele Luckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15138061226034855643noreply@blogger.comBlogger362125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-28518861993004357412020-07-18T03:00:00.000-07:002020-07-18T03:00:02.068-07:00Lessons for Distance Learning: 3 Tips for Integrating Technology Into Your Lesson PlansTechnology, though innovative and great, does not come without its limitations. In fact, I am often weary of assigning a full day of one-to-one lessons as I don't want my students absorbed in their Chromebooks. I shy away from going fully digital in my classroom because I strive to keep students connected, present, and engaged.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg_lrkzc_8TAo0f6SNTYAS2p0zMth4nGN9Ws_wVVh5rorKVxmDZkqmIpar_FO8b-RoVOkpFY_M1x5QO2mfiPO9cStFI_71qbjwjSSGF_TRT0GSbdU5DkEczqCQX1kULvaB7ImzyVXDp7-Y/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Blog+Post+Templates+%25285%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Especially in times like these, though, with the global pandemic looming on the horizon and schools around the nation closing their doors to prevent the spread of COVID-19, I am so thankful that we have the resources to provide learning opportunities to our students via digital lessons and tools. #teachingduringcovid #covidtimes #teachingduringpandemic #distancelearning #teachingfromhome" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg_lrkzc_8TAo0f6SNTYAS2p0zMth4nGN9Ws_wVVh5rorKVxmDZkqmIpar_FO8b-RoVOkpFY_M1x5QO2mfiPO9cStFI_71qbjwjSSGF_TRT0GSbdU5DkEczqCQX1kULvaB7ImzyVXDp7-Y/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Blog+Post+Templates+%25285%2529.png" title="Especially in times like these, though, with the global pandemic looming on the horizon and schools around the nation closing their doors to prevent the spread of COVID-19, I am so thankful that we have the resources to provide learning opportunities to our students via digital lessons and tools. #teachingduringcovid #covidtimes #teachingduringpandemic #distancelearning #teachingfromhome" width="640" /></a></div>
Especially in times like these, though, with the global pandemic looming on the horizon and schools around the nation closing their doors to prevent the spread of COVID-19, I am so thankful that we have the resources to provide learning opportunities to our students via digital lessons and tools. With teachers' lives uprooted in the early spring, and students moving to the safety of their own homes (and inside a little Zoom square), we've all had to adapt to change. With technology at our fingertips, we've crossed the expanse to distance learning, moved our lessons to a non-traditional format, and embraced Google Drive!<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>"Technology does not drive change -- it enables change." -Unknown</i></blockquote>
With the influx of digital demands increasing as the school year draws nearer, you may be overwhelmed with the requirement to teach virtually. In fact, for those teachers who don't use a ton of technology on the daily, moving all of your lesson plans to a digital format may be especially daunting. Try these 3 tips for integrating technology into your lesson plans for distance learning!<br />
<br />
<h4>
Tips for Planning a Digital School Year</h4>
1. Don't reinvent the wheel! If technology isn't your forte, that's okay! Embrace your strengths and let go of the rest. Luckily, there are hundreds of thousands of teachers out there doing the exact same thing you're doing this fall - teaching virtually. With the slew of resources available online, you're likely to find the perfect technology-based lesson somewhere in cyberspace.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6njoZzg1Cjo-kphC8W5O8A6Ilg519Ce3bJ4V2fa0xp5Th7ytkOD9lOPcMB2Sko037sgM371pWegN0-vLWLo3LF0Xx7PRs4E3g4VOE_hwKAcr1aNk37_2Ke7HH7180-rBJytaQJcQtc0kt/s1600/Copy+of+US+History+Full+Year.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Find 25 readings, 300+ activity pages, and exercises in vocabulary, content categorization, primary source analysis, comparison, timelines, and writing, all bundled neatly into a Google Drive lesson. #googledrive #virtualteaching #digitalteaching #distancelearning" border="0" data-original-height="978" data-original-width="652" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6njoZzg1Cjo-kphC8W5O8A6Ilg519Ce3bJ4V2fa0xp5Th7ytkOD9lOPcMB2Sko037sgM371pWegN0-vLWLo3LF0Xx7PRs4E3g4VOE_hwKAcr1aNk37_2Ke7HH7180-rBJytaQJcQtc0kt/s640/Copy+of+US+History+Full+Year.gif" title="Find 25 readings, 300+ activity pages, and exercises in vocabulary, content categorization, primary source analysis, comparison, timelines, and writing, all bundled neatly into a Google Drive lesson. #googledrive #virtualteaching #digitalteaching #distancelearning" width="425" /></a>You may even be able to find all-encompassing resources like this <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/US-American-History-Full-Year-Google-Drive-Ready-Digital-Interactive-Resource-5769477">US History Reading & Activity Set</a> that does all the heavy-lifting for you. Find 25 readings, 300+ activity pages, and exercises in vocabulary, content categorization, primary source analysis, comparison, timelines, and writing, all bundled neatly into a Google Drive lesson. Using this easy-to-assign resource, you can have students work individually from home during distance learning, or they can collaborate in the classroom once we return to in-person learning.<br />
<br />
<br />
2. Engage your students! Just because a computer screen separates you from your students physically does not mean you shouldn't treat them like they're sitting right in your classroom. Aided by technology, you can easily bridge the physical gap with engaging lessons that require students participation, just like in the classroom!<br />
<br />
3. Remain adaptable! If this year has shown us anything, it is that we, and our students, are adaptable! We have faced a global pandemic head-on, we've made changes to our school lives, our working lives, our extra curricular activities, our families... we've even changed how we get our groceries or fill up our tank with gas. We are resilient! So are our students. Remain pliable throughout this challenging time, and be ready to adapt if something isn't working. If you find that you're losing a student, search for a method that may work better. Employ the learning you've done over the years on differentiation, and find a way to modify your lesson to better serve your students.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpVFIJdkpcvWqTKYhR6LVtq4MSIqW_icCVxKhz_UM3WJitmEZ_RqwbvhYxFOk-TMrPmWUcuVH21-OhN94OAXy1Mxoyz5zgNGGNhBb8rtkr6X8ZEnR8zuU0oglMq3oV_sScif7ggjE3lPQQ/s1600/Copy+of+TpT++Templates+%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="In fact, let this nontraditional school year mold us and shape us in ways that would not have been possible in a traditional classroom setting. #nontraditionalteaching #distanceteaching #newperspective" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpVFIJdkpcvWqTKYhR6LVtq4MSIqW_icCVxKhz_UM3WJitmEZ_RqwbvhYxFOk-TMrPmWUcuVH21-OhN94OAXy1Mxoyz5zgNGGNhBb8rtkr6X8ZEnR8zuU0oglMq3oV_sScif7ggjE3lPQQ/s400/Copy+of+TpT++Templates+%25281%2529.png" title="In fact, let this nontraditional school year mold us and shape us in ways that would not have been possible in a traditional classroom setting. #nontraditionalteaching #distanceteaching #newperspective" width="266" /></a></div>
Just because we are separated from our students by a computer screen does not make us less important, or necessary. Remain vigilant in your duty to teach and protect, serving your students in any way necessary. Remind yourself constantly that we are all facing unprecedented times and that this school year does not have to look exactly like last year. In fact, let this nontraditional school year mold us and shape us in ways that would not have been possible in a traditional classroom setting. Keep your end goal in sight, and stay on track with your students. Progress is perfection!<br />
<br />
Happy Teaching!<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />Brittany Cloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08941738619995540015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-58801003641032231952020-07-16T08:47:00.002-07:002020-07-16T08:47:57.057-07:00Podcasting with Teacher Side Gig: How TpT Became a Full-Time GigPopping in for a different kind of post today! I am thankful to have been feathered on Steve Collins' Podcast, <a href="https://teacher-side-gig.zencast.website/episodes/15" target="_blank">Teacher Side Gig</a>! We talked about my life before teaching in the classroom, the many side gigs I had while teaching, my side-gig-gone-full-time TeachersPayTeachers life and how it evolved, and of course, my favorite piece of teacher advice: "Nobody puts Baby in a corner!"<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCFoHC_aObzDrWUGh_zjqNTHeIQF1IVkX92evknZrd-_muehg4g5jumzFelHA5gqtbUsHYGpHy_8cGSPw_t4gGSx9Hpv-qifdMvKyP6VXo7BHotm8YTeVjYZwc1K80o3u7xkvg1oIL2kCn/s1600/Side+Gigs.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Popping in for a different kind of post today! I am thankful to have been feathered on Steve Collins' Podcast, Teacher Side Gig! #teacherlife #teachersidegig #teacherpayteachers" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCFoHC_aObzDrWUGh_zjqNTHeIQF1IVkX92evknZrd-_muehg4g5jumzFelHA5gqtbUsHYGpHy_8cGSPw_t4gGSx9Hpv-qifdMvKyP6VXo7BHotm8YTeVjYZwc1K80o3u7xkvg1oIL2kCn/s640/Side+Gigs.png" title="Popping in for a different kind of post today! I am thankful to have been feathered on Steve Collins' Podcast, Teacher Side Gig! #teacherlife #teachersidegig #teacherpayteachers" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Make sure you check out Teacher Side Gig (Side Hustle) wherever you get your podcasts!<br />
<br />
<h4>
<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-15-interview-michele-luck-her-success-on-teachers/id1516951903?i=1000484864533" target="_blank">Teacher Side Gig Episode 15 on Apple Podcasts</a></h4>
<h4>
<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-15-interview-michele-luck-her-success-on-teachers/id1516951903?i=1000484864533" target="_blank"><br /></a><a href="https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9tZWRpYS56ZW5jYXN0LmZtL3RlYWNoZXItc2lkZS1naWcvcnNz/episode/YjE1Y2Y5NmEtYzg1OC00Y2JhLWFhYTQtZDY2MDY1ZDE1YzQ3?ved=2ahUKEwiqlNSvh9LqAhX7RzABHWLeBAkQkfYCegQIARAF" target="_blank">Teacher Side Gig Episode 15 on Google Podcasts</a></h4>
<h4>
<a href="https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9tZWRpYS56ZW5jYXN0LmZtL3RlYWNoZXItc2lkZS1naWcvcnNz/episode/YjE1Y2Y5NmEtYzg1OC00Y2JhLWFhYTQtZDY2MDY1ZDE1YzQ3?ved=2ahUKEwiqlNSvh9LqAhX7RzABHWLeBAkQkfYCegQIARAF" target="_blank"><br /></a><a href="https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/teacher-side-gig-side-hustle-steve-collins-_xpmQ2nr5IK/" target="_blank">Teacher Side Gig Episode 15 on Listen Notes</a></h4>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO3Z2SXWXMsgXAwRM0XtWC9NtvS3nxEprJRHVLype12oD8yXI5dkHB3BMUEt1m5258oZBX1abCNLgaRzOziNg1fdT-Ugsq2TmbeM3eSvrx_kbRm8yKxAFLE5Mc6YKtsvxp6shqPQ0q3_D3/s1600/Teachign+Side+Gigs.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Make sure you check out Teacher Side Gig (Side Hustle) wherever you get your podcasts! #sidegig #sidehustle #teaching #jobsforteachers" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO3Z2SXWXMsgXAwRM0XtWC9NtvS3nxEprJRHVLype12oD8yXI5dkHB3BMUEt1m5258oZBX1abCNLgaRzOziNg1fdT-Ugsq2TmbeM3eSvrx_kbRm8yKxAFLE5Mc6YKtsvxp6shqPQ0q3_D3/s400/Teachign+Side+Gigs.png" title="Make sure you check out Teacher Side Gig (Side Hustle) wherever you get your podcasts! #sidegig #sidehustle #teaching #jobsforteachers" width="266" /></a></div>
Steve also has two other successful coaching-themed podcasts: <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/basketball-coach-unplugged-a-basketball-coaching-podcast/id1044115915" target="_blank">Basketball Coach Unplugged</a> and <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/high-school-hoops-coaching-high-school-basketball/id1441192866" target="_blank">High School Hoops</a>! If either of those are in your wheelhouse, be sure to check them out.<br />
<br />
Comment below or reach out to me on Social Media to let me know your thoughts after you've tuned in!<br />
<br />
Happy Listening,<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />Michele Luckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15138061226034855643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-24534360650053978712020-06-22T03:00:00.000-07:002020-06-22T03:00:01.252-07:00White Privilege in the Classroom: How to Teach Racial Equality as a White TeacherUnless you've pulled a Rip Van Winkle, you're probably acutely aware of the heightened state of racial inequality brought to light in the past few months. If you're a white teacher (and <a href="https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator_clr.asp#:~:text=In%202017%E2%80%9318%2C%20about%2079,1%20percent%20of%20public%20school">statistics show that 79% of teachers in 2017-2018 were white</a>), you may be wondering how you can teach black history and discuss current events in your classroom with any sense of authority.<br />
<br />
Short answer? You can't! As a white teacher, you do not know how your black students or students of color are feeling. You haven't been in their shoes. You haven't experienced their struggles and inequalities intimately. You cannot fathom the fear and injustice they face in their daily lives.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc42ofkeGTf3CW82hybm9fylXhGeY6ogpn3kE9E_YdDZ1FwsjC9Dmcg8UyC-FdO_Z2-IrqenpkKsnZGvtI9nJ3C9EknGjCKo8N8sWhC7LGjKFgU7cp1otBEy7e8TLv5ylSklHE4atWfyrZ/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Blog+Post+Templates+%25283%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="If you're a white teacher (and statistics show that 79% of teachers in 2017-2018 were white), you may be wondering how you can teach black history and discuss current events in your classroom with any sense of authority. #teachingblackhistory #teachingracialequality #race #racialinequality #blacklivesmatter #blm #teachinghistory" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc42ofkeGTf3CW82hybm9fylXhGeY6ogpn3kE9E_YdDZ1FwsjC9Dmcg8UyC-FdO_Z2-IrqenpkKsnZGvtI9nJ3C9EknGjCKo8N8sWhC7LGjKFgU7cp1otBEy7e8TLv5ylSklHE4atWfyrZ/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Blog+Post+Templates+%25283%2529.png" title="If you're a white teacher (and statistics show that 79% of teachers in 2017-2018 were white), you may be wondering how you can teach black history and discuss current events in your classroom with any sense of authority. #teachingblackhistory #teachingracialequality #race #racialinequality #blacklivesmatter #blm #teachinghistory" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
But, while you can't speak from a position of authority, you <i>can </i>amplify black voices that are eloquently handling the conversations that you are not uniquely qualified to address. You can share resources, you can educate yourself, and you can avoid shying away from uncomfortable topics in the classroom, thus empowering your students of color and helping your entire class to understand history through a black-colored lens.<br />
<br />
<h3>
5 Tips for Teaching Anti-Racism as a White Teacher</h3>
1. Educate yourself! In light of recent events, we've all been exposed to history with which we were unfamiliar. Especially as a white teacher, familiarize yourself with books, movies, and other resources that address racism in America. Even if you already consider yourself anti-racist, find another resource. Browse another black-created memoir. Digest another movie about racism to better understand the experiences of those suffering right now.<br />
<br />
2. Remember that anti-racism is <i>not </i>political rhetoric. Taking a stand against racism does not mean endorsing either political party. Being anti-racism is about tackling adversities and disparities faced by people of color. As a teacher, you should be willing to shut down any racist rhetoric without moral hesitation. Don't forget - if your classroom is not a safe space for your students of color, then why are you teaching?<br />
<br />
3. Do not tip toe around race. While you should always use correct terminology and arm yourself with accurate historical facts, <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2019/02/why-teaching-black-history-is-not-just.html">don't shy away from teaching about racism, people of color, and uncomfortable topics</a>. Even though they're just that - uncomfortable - avoiding racism discussions in the classroom can make your students of color feel ashamed, less-than, and persecuted. This can also enable your inwardly racist students by validating their feelings that we should only discuss race in whispers. Talk loudly and proudly about people of color!<br />
<br />
4. Avoid color blindness. Yes, of course we want our students to love one another regardless of race. However, the reality is that saying we are all the same, or that we are alike regardless of racial differences, undermines the struggles that people of color have faced. Instead, empower students of all races to recognize differences while treating everyone with respect.<br />
<br />
5. Amplify black voices. As a white teacher, you are not uniquely qualified to talk on the topic of racial inequality. But, there are countless resources available in the wonderful world of the Internet that can both inform you as a teacher, and uplift black voices and creations to share with your students. Refrain from comparing the experiences of POC to those of yourself (unless you're <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2019/10/how-to-teach-about-privilege-in.html">highlighting white privilege</a>) and instead, empower those who have actually walked the walk. By amplifying black voices in your classroom, you will also relay to your students that they too have a voice and you're willing to empower and support them as well.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0gZO42x4358i2dvbdytmizg5HN4mfJUWsrVu9YGLNf4aRQgOm6dBxA7ZG2ARmvmZyshvTsKghCGU1DZ7Qm_LI4nOeY2MLN-vz44OpMpUDD86ytDctUkPD9mMn0X_ynGTfam-6Q8l6vBOJ/s1600/marchleaders.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="By amplifying black voices in your classroom, you will also relay to your students that they too have a voice and you're willing to empower and support them as well. #empowerstudents #teachhistory #teachsocialstudies #blackhistory #blacklivesmatter #blm #justiceforbreonnataylor #justiceforgeorgefloyd" border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0gZO42x4358i2dvbdytmizg5HN4mfJUWsrVu9YGLNf4aRQgOm6dBxA7ZG2ARmvmZyshvTsKghCGU1DZ7Qm_LI4nOeY2MLN-vz44OpMpUDD86ytDctUkPD9mMn0X_ynGTfam-6Q8l6vBOJ/s640/marchleaders.jpg" title="By amplifying black voices in your classroom, you will also relay to your students that they too have a voice and you're willing to empower and support them as well. #empowerstudents #teachhistory #teachsocialstudies #blackhistory #blacklivesmatter #blm #justiceforbreonnataylor #justiceforgeorgefloyd" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my previous students stands with the team of organizers that led the March on Frankfort, KY for #blacklivesmatter to demand justice for Breonna Taylor and George Floyd. This was one of my proudest moments as a teacher!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
Anti-Racism Resources & Media </h3>
<h4>
Books to Read</h4>
White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo ✦ How to Be an Anti-Racist by Ibram X. Kendi ✦ The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander ✦ Divided Sisters by Midge Wilson and Kathy Russell ✦ The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison ✦ Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston ✦ They Can't Kill Us All by Wesley Lowery ✦ I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou ✦ Fatal Invention by Dorothy Roberts ✦ Locking Up Our Own by James Forman ✦ The Miner's Canary by Lani Guiner and Gerald Torres ✦ The Wretched of the Earth by Frantz Fanon<br />
<br />
<h4>
Podcasts and Recordings to Listen To</h4>
1619 (New York Times) ✦ About Race ✦ Code Switch (NPR) ✦ Intersectionality Matters! hosted by Kimberlé Crenshaw ✦ Momentum: A Race Forward Podcast ✦ Pod for the Cause (Leadership Conference on Civil & Human Rights) ✦ Pod Save the People (Crooked Media) ✦ Seeing White ✦ Parenting Forward Podcast Episode 'Five Pandemic Parenting Lessons with Cindy Wang Brandt' ✦ Fare of the Free Child Podcast<br />
<br />
<h4>
Social Media Accounts to Follow (Instagram Tags)</h4>
Antiracism Center (@AntiracismCtr) ✦ Black Women's Blueprint (@blackwomensbp) ✦ Black Lives Matter (@Blklivesmatter) ✦ Colorlines (@Colorlines) ✦ Equal Justice Initiative (@eji_org) ✦ The Conscious Kid (@consciouskidlib @theconsciouskid) ✦ RAICES (@raicestexas) ✦ SisterSong (@SisterStrong_WOC) ✦ United We Dream (@UnitedWeDream)<br />
<br />
<h3>
Extensive Website Resources for Educating Yourself on Anti-Racism</h3>
<a href="https://medium.com/wake-up-call/a-detailed-list-of-anti-racism-resources-a34b259a3eea">A Detailed List of Anti-Racism Resources</a> by Wake-Up Call<br />
<a href="https://www.socialwork.career/2020/06/anti-racism-resources-for-social-workers-and-therapists.html?fbclid=IwAR3C_tKuhP1YQsAkRoF_gDGKVE0y83KJ9abXzsRoJbDGEa0ojEYcypfoGhk">Black Life Matters: Anti-Racism Resources for Social Workers and Therapists</a> by Social Work Career<br />
<a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1amjfuwdjsQ0qN5FY1E_WZhNJFly5Btz5NiSIl4bEdbw/edit?fbclid=IwAR1WK2q5Ky7x00A80ZpLgYUNz3gM8oochYBnsG-UaW1CeDQYCZ9NHsIEWPA#gid=0">Anti-racism Resources for White Allies</a> (Google doc)<br />
<a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BRlF2_zhNe86SGgHa6-VlBO-QgirITwCTugSfKie5Fs/mobilebasic?fbclid=IwAR1zGOqV81VD0gELJPyTFDLMWp138Tx_mW7jR3ETwZZHw4oaZJ6C9GyYdy8">Anti-racism resources for white people</a> (Google doc)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4MrqiWEcBN6q_Zm1Eii01Ljvol8phVZhe8pMx89IZ5Y6WvI5jot96w9W6RV9LiaFs_7ddmAsT6P81uZw39Dexk8J8JYkcky_w0LeyzQpB4zyhrkFr8dtSQOFocGN5x3swKDzXcQO4Iyox/s1600/_Copy+of+Blog++Templates+%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Don't shy away from difficult conversations; instead, teach your students how to respectfully dive into the tough stuff. Teach with love, with respect, and with empowerment. Teach history, and help your students change the world so we can avoid repeating it again. #teachhistory #civilrightsmovement #racialequality #mlk #martinlutherkingjr #teachequality" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4MrqiWEcBN6q_Zm1Eii01Ljvol8phVZhe8pMx89IZ5Y6WvI5jot96w9W6RV9LiaFs_7ddmAsT6P81uZw39Dexk8J8JYkcky_w0LeyzQpB4zyhrkFr8dtSQOFocGN5x3swKDzXcQO4Iyox/s400/_Copy+of+Blog++Templates+%25281%2529.png" title="Don't shy away from difficult conversations; instead, teach your students how to respectfully dive into the tough stuff. Teach with love, with respect, and with empowerment. Teach history, and help your students change the world so we can avoid repeating it again. #teachhistory #civilrightsmovement #racialequality #mlk #martinlutherkingjr #teachequality" width="266" /></a></div>
Though you may be inclined to breeze over current events in your classroom, I encourage you to educate yourself and familiarize yourself with black struggles instead. Amplify black voices, empower your black students, and teach history as you were trained to do! Don't shy away from difficult conversations; instead, teach your students how to respectfully dive into the tough stuff. Teach with love, with respect, and with empowerment. Teach history, and help your students change the world so we can avoid repeating it again.<br />
<br />
I'd normally wish you happy teaching, but in light of the pain felt by our black friends, students, and coworkers, I'll instead wish you <i>Compassionate Teaching!</i><br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />Brittany Cloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08941738619995540015noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-18183257829323562472020-05-24T16:02:00.001-07:002020-06-23T08:54:55.821-07:005 Tips for First Year Teachers: How to Make Your First Year AmazingAs a first year teacher, you may be feeling a plethora of negative emotions: scared, nervous, anxious, inferior, or even unprepared. But you shouldn't! Your education and training have prepared you for this! Remind yourself that you are competent, knowledgeable, and ready.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHXmqYKF_osicmqFG7ERQUIIwsFKxcThp8NwfZvdO-CsrHuOm9aRgogLcVPfs6XbDfJzOhX-5Sfb6I9wmD2_809nJODGSbJ_7qYG7lBbvY1NSeBr44PqDwiChJIo9_Xbs3PKM6ELvjhWNZ/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Blog+Post+Templates%25282%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="As a first year teacher, you may be feeling a plethora of negative emotions: scared, nervous, anxious, inferior, or even unprepared. But you shouldn't! Your education and training have prepared you for this! Remind yourself that you are competent, knowledgeable, and ready. #newteacher #firstyearteacher #teachernerves #teacheranxiety #teaching #socialstudies #teachingscholarship" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHXmqYKF_osicmqFG7ERQUIIwsFKxcThp8NwfZvdO-CsrHuOm9aRgogLcVPfs6XbDfJzOhX-5Sfb6I9wmD2_809nJODGSbJ_7qYG7lBbvY1NSeBr44PqDwiChJIo9_Xbs3PKM6ELvjhWNZ/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Blog+Post+Templates%25282%2529.png" title="As a first year teacher, you may be feeling a plethora of negative emotions: scared, nervous, anxious, inferior, or even unprepared. But you shouldn't! Your education and training have prepared you for this! Remind yourself that you are competent, knowledgeable, and ready. #newteacher #firstyearteacher #teachernerves #teacheranxiety #teaching #socialstudies #teachingscholarship" width="640" /></a></div>
If you need a little more to set your mind at ease, check out these 5 tips for first year teachers. By implementing these tips, you're sure to make your first year in the classroom amazing and memorable!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz80sxSkjz0NxFzrvgtzY4UQPT4CiO84W4pWMdyrMXpJpAStzIFtX0hRbMCbtWe9QXxQuTG7EUOZr67B29tZRpChznCIzTo84ClPn3vMEhS_mDHRdamuLXN95QJL_hFu7t0gnS3m6T6K1e/s1600/scholar2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY! #moneyforteachers #freeschoolsupplies #classroommakeover #firstyearteacher" border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz80sxSkjz0NxFzrvgtzY4UQPT4CiO84W4pWMdyrMXpJpAStzIFtX0hRbMCbtWe9QXxQuTG7EUOZr67B29tZRpChznCIzTo84ClPn3vMEhS_mDHRdamuLXN95QJL_hFu7t0gnS3m6T6K1e/s400/scholar2.png" title="SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY! #moneyforteachers #freeschoolsupplies #classroommakeover #firstyearteacher" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /><h3>
<span style="color: #444444;">5 Tips for First Year Teachers</span></h3>
<h4>
<span style="color: #444444;">
1. PREPARE FOR SUCCESS</span></h4>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Stress
is the bane of our existence. Instead of leaving everything until the
last minute and setting ourselves up for stress and failure, why not
take a different approach? By knocking things off your to-do list early,
you will reduce your stress and your results will be much more
successful! Don't wait until the week before school to start planning.
Start now and get ahead. Check out this post on <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2020/05/making-use-of-summer-break-planning.html">planning through the summer</a> for more tips and tricks!</span></span><br />
<h4>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span>
2. MAKE NEW FRIENDS</span></h4>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Use
this chance to network with teacher groups, fellow teacher friends, and
other community members who can aid in your teaching experience. Take
advice from experienced teachers, find </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">camaraderie</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> and stress relief with fellow newbies, and form </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">beneficial</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> relationships
with those who can further the experience you provide for your
students! Partnering with those in your community can not only provide
you with a support system but can also increase the opportunities your
students will have. Need someone for career day? Need donations from
businesses to implement a fun project? These partnerships are crucial in
furthering the learning opportunities your students face.</span></span><br />
<h4>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span>
3. KEEP LEARNING</span></h4>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Having
just graduated, you may not be due for Professional Development yet,
but if there's any skill we want to instill in our students, it's to <i>never stop learning</i>!
So, why should you? Take online courses to further your skills, find
local professional development opportunities, or dive into a
highly-recommended book. Staying up-to-date and relevant will not only
help you as a teacher, but it will help you pad your resume for any
interviews you may have on your five-year plan.</span></span><br />
<h4>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span>
4. SET CLEAR EXPECTATIONS</span></h4>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Part
of being prepared is setting clear, achievable, and measurable
expectations for yourself and your students. Make a vision board or
write down your goals, and share them with those new friends you made in
step 2 for some accountability. Measure your goals and reward yourself
for even the smallest successes. Then, take this practice into your
classroom on day one by offering your students clear-cut expectations
and rules. By being forthcoming with your expectations from the
beginning of the year, students will better understand how to succeed in
your classroom, and you will avoid sticky situations where unclear
expectations led to problematic behaviors.</span></span><br />
<h4>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span>
5. USE YOUR RESOURCES</span></h4>
This world of education is HUGE. Especially in the digital age, there are millions of resources at your fingertips! Don't be afraid to browse online resources and sites like <a href="http://www.tptsocialstudies.com/" target="_blank">TeachersPayTeachers</a> for guides, lesson plans, activity sheets, tests and study guides, and even full unit preparations! By finding resources that are ready to implement in your classroom, you can shave off much of the behind-the-scenes work that may be causing you stress. Find resources from teachers and creators with great track records and find a multitude of resources that are modifiable for just about any classroom. There is even a wealth of freebie resources out there that can set you up for success without costing you a dine! <br />
<h4>
</h4>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6biIclx3sPryBaoGDOB0oIBYOFQjENR18L9CXkmsKDWeXcWaqBQo0HZifpH1J4XoOy3Pdci_lTBuwE8z3SuyqzSWt1fXWB654fdtqse8IFd968bHRwaLFzgs-zgas0rO6vQSmvVV-Or9A/s1600/Drawing+Games%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="As you enter your first year as a classroom teacher, proceed with confidence! You are educated, you are prepared, and you are competent! You will change lives in your classroom, and following these 5 tips for first year teachers will set you, and your students, up for success! If ever you doubt your teaching skills, return to these 5 basic tips to jump-start your success. #teachertips #secondaryteacher #socialstudiesteacher #tipsforteachers #newteachers" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6biIclx3sPryBaoGDOB0oIBYOFQjENR18L9CXkmsKDWeXcWaqBQo0HZifpH1J4XoOy3Pdci_lTBuwE8z3SuyqzSWt1fXWB654fdtqse8IFd968bHRwaLFzgs-zgas0rO6vQSmvVV-Or9A/s640/Drawing+Games%25281%2529.png" title="As you enter your first year as a classroom teacher, proceed with confidence! You are educated, you are prepared, and you are competent! You will change lives in your classroom, and following these 5 tips for first year teachers will set you, and your students, up for success! If ever you doubt your teaching skills, return to these 5 basic tips to jump-start your success. #teachertips #secondaryteacher #socialstudiesteacher #tipsforteachers #newteachers" width="425" /></a>As you enter your first year as a classroom teacher, proceed with confidence! You are educated, you are prepared, and you are competent! You will change lives in your classroom, and following these 5 tips for first year teachers will set you, and your students, up for success! If ever you doubt your teaching skills, return to these 5 basic tips to jump-start your success. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy Teaching!</div>
</div>
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />Brittany Cloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08941738619995540015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-57795745471816236352020-05-21T03:00:00.000-07:002020-05-21T03:00:08.746-07:00The Well-Managed Classroom: Tips & Tricks for Classroom ManagementWhile you are <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2020/05/making-use-of-summer-break-planning.html">making the most of your summer break</a> and planning ahead to next school year, it may also be beneficial to consider classroom management. As with all things planning, nailing down your classroom management goals and techniques early will ensure success and ease. Thinking about classroom management on the first day of school is unfortunately too late. Set your secondary classroom up for success with highly-achievable classroom management goals for the upcoming school year.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAMottJgF7aSaIW4z8MnTSuw3gOf00RN7jeC5swRCsC8T06QunWhvC6iVDJ3vZtiF0r_8gWMk24d2KxZ-KWcCoMwcjOxZiMjiRhp3xkOfuB-X6tMjMTzoIfDSEDHpWBYRWZFP_Z00N47U-/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Blog+Post+Templates%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Classroom Management is an integrated approach to create a successful learning environment; it does not stand alone. Classroom Management is not just behavior tracking and consequences. Classroom Management is interactive and interpersonal. Classroom Management is not one-size-fits-all, but it’s easily modified to fit your needs and the needs of your students. #classroommanagement #secondaryteaching #classroomexpectations" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAMottJgF7aSaIW4z8MnTSuw3gOf00RN7jeC5swRCsC8T06QunWhvC6iVDJ3vZtiF0r_8gWMk24d2KxZ-KWcCoMwcjOxZiMjiRhp3xkOfuB-X6tMjMTzoIfDSEDHpWBYRWZFP_Z00N47U-/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Blog+Post+Templates%25281%2529.png" title="Classroom Management is an integrated approach to create a successful learning environment; it does not stand alone. Classroom Management is not just behavior tracking and consequences. Classroom Management is interactive and interpersonal. Classroom Management is not one-size-fits-all, but it’s easily modified to fit your needs and the needs of your students. #classroommanagement #secondaryteaching #classroomexpectations" width="640" /></a></div>
First, let’s talk a bit about what classroom management is... and isn’t. There’s a fleshed out <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2020/02/creating-interactive-and-engaging.html">blog post on Classroom Management</a> if you’d like more tricks and tips!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Classroom Management is an integrated approach to create a successful learning environment; it does not stand alone.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Classroom Management is <i>not </i>just behavior tracking and consequences.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Classroom Management is interactive and interpersonal.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Classroom Management is <i>not </i>one-size-fits-all, but it’s easily modified to fit your needs and the needs of your students.</span></div>
<br />
<h4>
When does Classroom Management begin?</h4>
Now! Planning and effectively communicating your desires for your classroom to your students has to happen before the school year starts. You must be ready to go on day one. In fact, <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2015/06/bright-ideas-blog-hop-meeting-students.html">Meet and Greets</a> are a great way to establish classroom management from the very second you meet your students on the first day of school.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTtKGq8G9WYoHX6LJdjyMaIWN5zwU2aagLL9S7mRuMz2UEOy_AD6UHz42FV-JXenncqTlFCggRwamcQyawjQYI9H1oyKooAdOLE6hjVxwisz3GvwWPqKKsn0nBxb2B5gr_0edaxQ1-o6Vp/s1600/E4855AB7-7E8F-4A9C-83F7-CAB0A8D8F024.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Planning and effectively communicating your desires for your classroom to your students has to happen before the school year starts. You must be ready to go on day one. #firstdayofschool #newteachers #toolsforteachers #icebreakers" border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="349" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTtKGq8G9WYoHX6LJdjyMaIWN5zwU2aagLL9S7mRuMz2UEOy_AD6UHz42FV-JXenncqTlFCggRwamcQyawjQYI9H1oyKooAdOLE6hjVxwisz3GvwWPqKKsn0nBxb2B5gr_0edaxQ1-o6Vp/s320/E4855AB7-7E8F-4A9C-83F7-CAB0A8D8F024.jpeg" title="Planning and effectively communicating your desires for your classroom to your students has to happen before the school year starts. You must be ready to go on day one. #firstdayofschool #newteachers #toolsforteachers #icebreakers" width="319" /></a></div>
This <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/A-Totally-Editable-First-Days-of-School-Classroom-Scavenger-Hunt-3992099">totally editable (and totally *FREE*) First Day Scavenger Hunt</a> is also a great ice breaker to set the school year off on the right foot. While this exercise is fun and light-hearted with a good amount of humor, it also helps you to effectively and clearly communicate classroom expectations right off the bat with questions like “What do I need to bring to class everyday?”<br />
<br />
To be ready to implement your plan on day one, you have to start planning now. I know, I know. Your ideal summer, especially when recovering from the non-traditional end to the 2020 school year, is not spent researching effective classroom management strategies and how to implement them in your classroom. But, setting yourself (and your students!) up for success on day one starts with your commitment to a productive and inclusive classroom environment on the very first day of school.<br />
<br />
<h4>
How do I get started?</h4>
First, let’s revisit the idea that classroom management is an integrated approach to learning. It isn’t just seating charts, behavior contracts, or poster-sized classroom rules plastered to the wall. Classroom management is exhaustive, multi-faceted, and modifiable.<br />
<br />
Classroom management can begin with a simple idea - one that is a buzz word of the current times and one you’ve likely studied in your classes and/or continued education. Growth Mindset.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnlA3XNG-82YKuK_wmXebfMmcNX4K_AAvNY1y7zxNyoeU1hcHM6eAxmQ6gW9x8V9eByaNTo6Lloak2mBINk_U5P3g1-r0L7o-9J3bxR4_ImbIEA2ngsE4CFzyHDuSWP8rKpF1uvOT6G2qk/s1600/D70E9D7C-DA3D-4C46-8933-53E727FD0A7D.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Using a Growth Mindset Focus Guide will establish your expectations on day one, while helping students to understand their potential and set goals for the upcoming school year. #growth #growthmindset #expectationsforstudents #teacherexpectations #positivelearning" border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnlA3XNG-82YKuK_wmXebfMmcNX4K_AAvNY1y7zxNyoeU1hcHM6eAxmQ6gW9x8V9eByaNTo6Lloak2mBINk_U5P3g1-r0L7o-9J3bxR4_ImbIEA2ngsE4CFzyHDuSWP8rKpF1uvOT6G2qk/s320/D70E9D7C-DA3D-4C46-8933-53E727FD0A7D.jpeg" title="Using a Growth Mindset Focus Guide will establish your expectations on day one, while helping students to understand their potential and set goals for the upcoming school year. #growth #growthmindset #expectationsforstudents #teacherexpectations #positivelearning" width="320" /></a>Growth mindset is the idea that students can develop their skills and knowledge. Using a growth mindset in your classroom reduces stagnation and burnout, helps students to find learning styles and techniques that work for them, and creates a positive and encouraging learning environment that makes students want to dive deeper.<br />
<br />
Using a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Back-to-School-or-End-Year-Growth-Mindset-Focus-Guide-Life-Map-Planning-Sheet-4519612">Growth Mindset Focus Guide</a> will establish your expectations on day one, while helping students to understand their potential and set goals for the upcoming school year.<br />
<br />
<h4>
What about behavior?</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRwmxvZExWLYNWXyR2t3OUgg0r0VmCj21nCb7XTB7ojg1rhZJFi5X78MxnPXt_yPPK8JNrK7LQnTSoKgEbEaQ5Uh8fRyp_w5SXoYU6wBpFMLB0RZ0MIYwFCJS2xHiL1NjfZu-4w-VSkMf1/s1600/D00CAF20-576E-4695-B109-DEE32B29BF34.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Having students sign a Behavior Contract ensures that you have fully communicated your classroom expectations and that they agree to your guidelines. #teacherprintables #behaviorcontract #teacherforms #newteachers" border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="349" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRwmxvZExWLYNWXyR2t3OUgg0r0VmCj21nCb7XTB7ojg1rhZJFi5X78MxnPXt_yPPK8JNrK7LQnTSoKgEbEaQ5Uh8fRyp_w5SXoYU6wBpFMLB0RZ0MIYwFCJS2xHiL1NjfZu-4w-VSkMf1/s320/D00CAF20-576E-4695-B109-DEE32B29BF34.jpeg" title="Having students sign a Behavior Contract ensures that you have fully communicated your classroom expectations and that they agree to your guidelines. #teacherprintables #behaviorcontract #teacherforms #newteachers" width="319" /></a></div>
Behavior is a key component of classroom management. If you don’t set measurable expectations or establish your classroom rules, students will not have a tool by which they can measure their success. It leads to a murky, unsure classroom environment where students are walking on eggshells instead of learning. This isn’t a productive learning environment for teachers <i>or</i> students.<br />
<br />
<br />
Instead, make your expectations clear from day one. Having students sign a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Behavior-Contract-for-Students-Middle-or-High-School-Appropriate-23768">Behavior Contract</a> ensures that you have fully communicated your classroom expectations and that they agree to your guidelines. This leaves the opportunity for students to seek clarification or explanation, eliminating that murky tread-with-caution disaster.<br />
<br />
<i>You can also get the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Student-Behavior-Contract-for-MiddleHigh-School-in-Spanish-Contrato-de-conducta-2923209">Behavior Contract in Spanish</a>!</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<h4>
What’s next?</h4>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl94z9WsHJDga6JB0AvyNsBrr0o1MN-h3smWwG_NSYETOTYaTvc0i3ZgzwMiDCNgPEnZN9Ex5PntZTfXGCFEKAO4LV0_tvGwSPoJxnHm4b43-r0jkNmixRLIlQKVsgmYrsWs37pWSNa3Mj/s1600/CFF77A60-9FA5-4B6F-9A59-2FF508EC4255.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Checking in with your students regularly not only provides vital feedback to your teaching style and classroom management success, but it also empowers students to express their opinions and speak freely. #studentfeedback #feedback #feedbackforteachers #evolve #grow #teach" border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl94z9WsHJDga6JB0AvyNsBrr0o1MN-h3smWwG_NSYETOTYaTvc0i3ZgzwMiDCNgPEnZN9Ex5PntZTfXGCFEKAO4LV0_tvGwSPoJxnHm4b43-r0jkNmixRLIlQKVsgmYrsWs37pWSNa3Mj/s320/CFF77A60-9FA5-4B6F-9A59-2FF508EC4255.jpeg" title="Checking in with your students regularly not only provides vital feedback to your teaching style and classroom management success, but it also empowers students to express their opinions and speak freely. #studentfeedback #feedback #feedbackforteachers #evolve #grow #teach" width="320" /></a>After you have set clear expectations for classroom behavior and encouraged students with a Growth Mindset, you should use measurable tools to continually check your progress. Make sure the wheels are still spinning in the right direction... double check that the common goals are still within reach.<br />
<br />
Checking in with your students regularly not only provides vital feedback to your teaching style and classroom management success, but it also empowers students to express their opinions and speak freely. If students realize they are part of the vehicle of learning, they are more likely to invest into their education. No one wants to be a bystander. Using tools like the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Student-Study-Survey-for-Learning-Evaluation-Parent-Conferences-237882">Student Study Survey</a> will ensure students are being heard!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH6xnzvUSvz47HOzzlpzc1GeIzaUMMZj3V44XPXGA2FrPSe8LsaFSzdiMXMyBTC4kq961aIglOiOesqIsl2SCdImwTcMWD78u902UTGZEVxOifY96UMlKhnma0ufXxo0H70u4_Mx_buIIM/s1600/Drawing+Games.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Using the tools for success to help you implement a foolproof classroom management plan now will reduce much stress later! #classroommanagement #managingyourclassroom #classroomorganization #classroomexpectations #teachermanagement" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH6xnzvUSvz47HOzzlpzc1GeIzaUMMZj3V44XPXGA2FrPSe8LsaFSzdiMXMyBTC4kq961aIglOiOesqIsl2SCdImwTcMWD78u902UTGZEVxOifY96UMlKhnma0ufXxo0H70u4_Mx_buIIM/s640/Drawing+Games.png" title="Using the tools for success to help you implement a foolproof classroom management plan now will reduce much stress later! #classroommanagement #managingyourclassroom #classroomorganization #classroomexpectations #teachermanagement" width="425" /></a></div>
I assure you that, while a nice, relaxing summer under the sun with a beverage of your choosing in hand sounds miraculous, being prepared for day one of the upcoming school year will feel EVEN BETTER if you get it done now. Planning for next school year has so many different facets, including this critical piece on classroom management, and putting this off until the night before school starts will only create more stress for you and your students! Using the tools for success to help you implement a foolproof classroom management plan now will reduce much stress later!<br />
<br />
Happy Teaching!<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />Brittany Cloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08941738619995540015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-72935470304870208122020-05-14T03:00:00.000-07:002020-05-14T03:00:06.906-07:00Making Use of Summer Break: Planning through the SummerThough this school year ended non-traditionally for most schools in America, and even around the world, you may already be stressing about next year. In fact, you may be stressing more this summer than you normally would as plans for next school year are up in the air! This stress is normal, but it's also avoidable!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI2i_orO567JouRH9GowrWJ_kKbOMCQ01rrxJYjsRlWvVbNnWBNb_MwG6naZ1TCyjtdcZcZ-twESoxdbHokvY4jfD7XkysErSwRY-TmNMaIOwf6oplQq7alIIbcGYu3GRa6YX_3F0Ieeds/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Blog+Post+Templates+%25282%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="By dedicating this summer to planning next school year, you'll not only reduce your stress, but you'll also improve your teaching confidence, provide an organized and efficient plan year for your students, and begin the school year on the right foot! #planningthroughthesummer #lessonplanning #lessonplansforteachers #tpt #tptforteachers" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI2i_orO567JouRH9GowrWJ_kKbOMCQ01rrxJYjsRlWvVbNnWBNb_MwG6naZ1TCyjtdcZcZ-twESoxdbHokvY4jfD7XkysErSwRY-TmNMaIOwf6oplQq7alIIbcGYu3GRa6YX_3F0Ieeds/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Blog+Post+Templates+%25282%2529.png" title="By dedicating this summer to planning next school year, you'll not only reduce your stress, but you'll also improve your teaching confidence, provide an organized and efficient plan year for your students, and begin the school year on the right foot! #planningthroughthesummer #lessonplanning #lessonplansforteachers #tpt #tptforteachers" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We talked previously about <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2019/03/tired-of-playing-catch-up-in-classroom.html" target="_blank">playing catch-up in the classroom</a>. Some teachers may be planners through and through while others procrastinate down to the night before Back to School! Even if you aren't one to plan ahead, you can probably imagine the stress relief if you are able to escape the constant game of catch-up. By <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2011/06/its-all-over-isnt-it.html#more" target="_blank">dedicating this summer to planning</a> next school year, you'll not only reduce your stress, but you'll also improve your teaching confidence, provide an organized and efficient plan year for your students, and begin the school year on the right foot!<br />
<br />
There is no need to start from scratch. By <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2013/05/thinking-about-next-year.html" target="_blank">using ready-made resources, planning tools, and teacher guides</a>, you can easily plan through your summer and set yourself (and your students!) up for success next year, no matter what curve balls the world may throw at you!<br />
<br />
<h4>
Where do I begin?</h4>
<i>Curriculum Mapping! </i>You may be an experienced teacher - seasoned, even - but planning may still leave you at a loss. No clue how to pace your curriculum? Start with a Scope and Sequence which will help you lay out the entire year's plan and allow you to ensure you check all the boxes this upcoming year.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNvN2lTy9YgZPmAhLPGXc3B2jePL7G8_gLQYy4ggwjO2WiO5L6kyJhFZeZfm8m4RC7eoxiUWbRMvWgJ_iQwXDSMao258jIiBu34iyzz4nPXEjI-5l0D8-zUXeaTK29ZM4pkmw3EIAJNKF5/s1600/scopeseq.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="You may be an experienced teacher - seasoned, even - but planning may still leave you at a loss. No clue how to pace your curriculum? Start with a Scope and Sequence which will help you lay out the entire year's plan and allow you to ensure you check all the boxes this upcoming year. #scopeandsequence #curriculummap #newteachers #howtolessonplan #lessonplanning" border="0" data-original-height="374" data-original-width="740" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNvN2lTy9YgZPmAhLPGXc3B2jePL7G8_gLQYy4ggwjO2WiO5L6kyJhFZeZfm8m4RC7eoxiUWbRMvWgJ_iQwXDSMao258jIiBu34iyzz4nPXEjI-5l0D8-zUXeaTK29ZM4pkmw3EIAJNKF5/s640/scopeseq.PNG" title="You may be an experienced teacher - seasoned, even - but planning may still leave you at a loss. No clue how to pace your curriculum? Start with a Scope and Sequence which will help you lay out the entire year's plan and allow you to ensure you check all the boxes this upcoming year. #scopeandsequence #curriculummap #newteachers #howtolessonplan #lessonplanning" width="640" /></a></div>
For World Geography courses, check out the *free* <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/World-Geography-Complete-Course-Scope-and-Sequence-Curriculum-Map-4731330" target="_blank">World Geography Complete Course Scope and Sequence Curriculum Map</a>.<br />
<br />
If you're teaching World History, try the *free* <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/World-History-Complete-Course-Scope-and-Sequence-Curriculum-Map-4735291" target="_blank">World History Complete Course Scope and Sequence Curriculum Map</a>.<br />
<br />
<h4>
What's next?</h4>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaprjSl9b4KxNoQ6Z-GcUGvLeOJAwv5aTJbbHOIyAKV8OtlbkexIW81z6Z_Y-gJQqLrCgYF7od5AeY06xLYGXX3aDtzt8S7kq5v3MwmbXUemi1FTIXXgixMFl0NVSRT8tcO2qWoUiErYWA/s1600/bundle.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Once you've set your Scope and Sequence and have a handle on the year's curriculum, download the comprehensive Back to School Classroom Organization & Management BUNDLE to ensure a successful start to the school year! #classroommanagement #teacherresources #newteachers #experiencedteachers #teachertools" border="0" data-original-height="583" data-original-width="448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaprjSl9b4KxNoQ6Z-GcUGvLeOJAwv5aTJbbHOIyAKV8OtlbkexIW81z6Z_Y-gJQqLrCgYF7od5AeY06xLYGXX3aDtzt8S7kq5v3MwmbXUemi1FTIXXgixMFl0NVSRT8tcO2qWoUiErYWA/s320/bundle.PNG" title="Once you've set your Scope and Sequence and have a handle on the year's curriculum, download the comprehensive Back to School Classroom Organization & Management BUNDLE to ensure a successful start to the school year! #classroommanagement #teacherresources #newteachers #experiencedteachers #teachertools" width="245" /></a><i>Classroom Management! </i>Once you've set your Scope and Sequence and have a handle on the year's curriculum, download the comprehensive <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Back-to-School-Classroom-Organization-Management-BUNDLE-1905519" target="_blank">Back to School Classroom Organization & Management BUNDLE</a> to ensure a successful start to the school year!<br />
<br />
This 80+ page bundle includes seating charts, organizational tools and posters, lesson organization, classroom management tools, first day activities, student organizers, teacher portfolio guides, and more! This resource covers dozens of individual products and a multitude of categories that will help you prepare for the first day back.<br />
<br />
<i>Lesson Planning! </i>Check out this *free* Daily Lesson & Unit Plan Templates for Middle School or High School for lesson planning temples that are easy to use and will walk you through step-by-step. It is available in <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Lesson-Unit-Plan-Templates-for-Middle-or-High-School-15704" target="_blank">PDF</a> or <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Lesson-Unit-Plan-for-Google-Drive-Templates-for-Middle-or-High-School-2389923" target="_blank">Google Drive</a> format.<br />
<br />
<i>Advanced Placement (AP) Preparation! </i>If you're teaching an AP course, also take advantage of this <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-AP-Course-Introduction-Summer-Assignments-Packet-3147831" target="_blank">Editable AP Introduction Syllabus & Summer Assignments Packet</a>. It's never too early to start prepping for your AP courses and this packet will set you up for success throughout the summer and into the school year.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Want to dive deeper?</h4>
<i>Everything at your Fingertips! </i>The ultimate guidebook, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/A-Lesson-Plan-for-Teachers-New-or-Old-Experienced-that-is-Guidebook-15542" target="_blank">A Lesson Plan for Teachers, New or Old (Experienced, that is!)</a> is a great resource for new and existing teachers. With advice, anecdotes, and tools to use in your high-expectations classroom, this read is a quick resource to set your mind at ease.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEighxGMUXWkSw6SOgLme8KHrGZjxQGLRQQnFyRmB4DJLYPcPdqbTEw2lhLda-N991Pqze-u0pg7zl70RzJYhWvK-SUES_r7Y6ckYJ73m_JOeV34qSp-8HrPJyWvgYXr9KnlNmGbQXxRHwlM/s1600/_Copy+of+Blog++Templates.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="By starting your planning during the summer and developing a foolproof plan for next school year, you will prevent a lot of stress and sleepless nights in the fall! #teacherplanning #summerbreak #curriculummap #classroommanagement" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEighxGMUXWkSw6SOgLme8KHrGZjxQGLRQQnFyRmB4DJLYPcPdqbTEw2lhLda-N991Pqze-u0pg7zl70RzJYhWvK-SUES_r7Y6ckYJ73m_JOeV34qSp-8HrPJyWvgYXr9KnlNmGbQXxRHwlM/s640/_Copy+of+Blog++Templates.png" title="By starting your planning during the summer and developing a foolproof plan for next school year, you will prevent a lot of stress and sleepless nights in the fall! #teacherplanning #summerbreak #curriculummap #classroommanagement" width="425" /></a></div>
Though you are well-deserving of a break, a successful classroom won't run itself. By starting your planning during the summer and developing a foolproof plan for next school year, you will prevent a lot of stress and sleepless nights in the fall! By preparing for the school year now, you'll set yourself, and your students, up for success, and you will have the skills, confidence, and plans to run a thoroughly-managed classroom next year.<br />
<br />
Happy Teaching!<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />Michele Luckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15138061226034855643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-55380084699572486882020-03-26T15:44:00.000-07:002020-03-26T15:48:45.901-07:00Fun & Engaging Lessons for At Home LearningNow that many of us parents and grandparents are unexpectedly fulfilling the role of homeschool teacher due to school closures, we may be unsure where to find solid resources for teaching American geography. Non-traditional instruction only fills part of a child's day and we need to go above and beyond the assignment list to ensure the successes of our advancing students. While you probably didn't plan to home school your child this year, there are many resources to help you take hold of the reigns and propel your child's Social Studies education.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh17biS0xxWH0d6GEV3WbFQlSqma-ngCBClu1gm7_W80pJt4MU6y2dcBApscRE8oB-r6sM-Ajgu5JXiD9JVLQOvEy0HwtUTXBRI7JKgnYJCDM7IwUW82sTPLRja9nFuMJQMSbHWl5CLQm4Q/s1600/American+Geography+Task+Cards+Post.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Homeschooling and Distance Learning can be a great challenge if you don't have the right resources for your students. Instead of assigning textbook reading or endless online searches, let your kids have fun with engaging activities as they practice skills and learn key content in American History, Geography, and more!" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh17biS0xxWH0d6GEV3WbFQlSqma-ngCBClu1gm7_W80pJt4MU6y2dcBApscRE8oB-r6sM-Ajgu5JXiD9JVLQOvEy0HwtUTXBRI7JKgnYJCDM7IwUW82sTPLRja9nFuMJQMSbHWl5CLQm4Q/s640/American+Geography+Task+Cards+Post.png" title="Homeschooling and Distance Learning can be a great challenge if you don't have the right resources for your students. Instead of assigning textbook reading or endless online searches, let your kids have fun with engaging activities as they practice skills and learn key content in American History, Geography, and more!" width="640" /></a></div>
Even without a degree in education, you can find the resources and lessons to effectively teach your elementary school, middle school, or high school child from home. With a little patience and preparation, your homeschooling efforts will pay off with a well-educated kiddo (and hopefully only a few gray hairs!).<br />
<br />
There are so many great resources online, but finding resources that are accurate, simple, and engaging can be overwhelming. Finding resources that offer consistency can also be a challenge.<br />
<br />
This <b><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/United-States-Complete-Primary-Source-Analysis-Bundled-Set-Civil-War-Modern-Day-1159413" target="_blank">United States Primary Source Analysis Bundle</a></b> can provide a comprehensive collection of American History documents and images for secondary students to analyze, practicing Social Studies skills while reviewing content.<br />
<br />
When you home school, it is best to start with the foundation and build upward. Your students can provide valuable feedback during the process. Look for resources that address basic skills. Consider <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Michele-Lucks-Social-Studies/Category/Mapping-Activities-Geography-IN-History-Series-244708" target="_blank">Mapping Lessons</a> that cover key content while also teaching students how to examine and create maps to show what they know. This <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mapping-the-World-Social-Studies-Skills-Practice-Activity-3257034" target="_blank">Mapping the World</a> activity is a fun one I use in the first days of school to set my students up with that valuable foundation.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLEAaehhHTbwQC8lqqY0rYQhS_6krgSbifFytujxkR0Gb5GpIE79w0gfp1ruQensd09gZh3fUk-tze2GLHML12ta1AgfOH8gLp-ESZ7jIF-8r0bpoZcIdTAURhgAdk-J1rEg_n_vh32oeh/s1600/4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Homeschooling and Distance Learning can be a great challenge if you don't have the right resources for your students. Instead of assigning textbook reading or endless online searches, let your kids have fun with engaging activities as they practice skills and learn key content in American History, Geography, and more!" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLEAaehhHTbwQC8lqqY0rYQhS_6krgSbifFytujxkR0Gb5GpIE79w0gfp1ruQensd09gZh3fUk-tze2GLHML12ta1AgfOH8gLp-ESZ7jIF-8r0bpoZcIdTAURhgAdk-J1rEg_n_vh32oeh/s1600/4.png" title="Homeschooling and Distance Learning can be a great challenge if you don't have the right resources for your students. Instead of assigning textbook reading or endless online searches, let your kids have fun with engaging activities as they practice skills and learn key content in American History, Geography, and more!" /></a></div>
<h4>
Homeschooling with Task Cards</h4>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWS42FPdIj-yWi4zBJzBD3oA7umeAUosUbKOt51g8wns0dH-FXMyc7-pfyISjDXqR29Edjr0tVj7hXqBqAyNYwzun3V6feVUvUQY0uRCBiIaPl1JaJv62TWw0njahA37R5UE78dCZW7tKV/s1600/9.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Homeschooling and Distance Learning can be a great challenge if you don't have the right resources for your students. Instead of assigning textbook reading or endless online searches, let your kids have fun with engaging activities as they practice skills and learn key content in American History, Geography, and more!" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWS42FPdIj-yWi4zBJzBD3oA7umeAUosUbKOt51g8wns0dH-FXMyc7-pfyISjDXqR29Edjr0tVj7hXqBqAyNYwzun3V6feVUvUQY0uRCBiIaPl1JaJv62TWw0njahA37R5UE78dCZW7tKV/s640/9.png" title="Homeschooling and Distance Learning can be a great challenge if you don't have the right resources for your students. Instead of assigning textbook reading or endless online searches, let your kids have fun with engaging activities as they practice skills and learn key content in American History, Geography, and more!" width="425" /></a>Task cards are a great way to meet your kids where they are. Task cards have many different uses and applications, including engaging hands-on learning, assessment, skills reinforcement (especially great for geography skills reinforcement!), practice, and content introduction.<br />
<br />
This <b><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/American-Geography-Task-Card-Set-200-Cards-Fun-Distance-Learning-historygives-2536935">American Geography Task Card Set</a></b> includes 200 cards that can be used as a scavenger hunt activity, mapping practice, research prompts, and fun, engaging games! Task Cards are great for making rotating centers (which get students UP and MOVING!). Task Cards also work well with groups and teams, so if your child has siblings or friends who they can Skype or Zoom, they can work in digital pairs!<br />
<br />
Reinforce skills with a printed map so students can mark the places they discover as they learn. Or, use an online resource like <a href="http://www.sheppardsoftware.com/Geography.htm">Sheppard Software</a> to practice states (or countries, regions, etc.) with a timer.<br />
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
American History Resources</h4>
In addition to task cards, this <b><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/History-Headline-News-Informational-Text-Reading-April-Distance-Learning-Set-5356590?aref=rwkrw1ds">History Headline News Activity</a></b> is great for upper elementary students and can help pull kids from excessive current media engagement. This activity allows them to visit this day in a historical context and report on their findings. The fun and diverse topics will keep them wanting to learn more.<br />
<br />
Also, homeschool students can engage with current events with a <b><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Current-Events-and-US-History-Annotation-Timeline-Distance-Learning-Activity-5314888?aref=rwkrw1ds">Current Events Timeline Activity</a></b>. The skill of timelining is vital to reinforce the cause and effect of history, but is also a great way to let learner's hands participate in visual and content reinforcement.<br />
<br />
Find more Social Studies resources for your homeschool classroom <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Michele-Lucks-Social-Studies/Grade-Level/Homeschooler/Order:Most-Recent#seller_details_tabs">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJVem4iL0Y5nWNTsO-M2J-THhQfQGgnsNilWtwpKnT1cK6EuE7nK67Wwd4lGPLo3ZJ40rvUd78XGJD5l8rVXB17O6vGvpl8QpFN9fQfbPcbmX6xk-9HwM0UCg-yEORaO1qhll4jh-NZnQG/s1600/3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Homeschooling and Distance Learning can be a great challenge if you don't have the right resources for your students. Instead of assigning textbook reading or endless online searches, let your kids have fun with engaging activities as they practice skills and learn key content in American History, Geography, and more!" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJVem4iL0Y5nWNTsO-M2J-THhQfQGgnsNilWtwpKnT1cK6EuE7nK67Wwd4lGPLo3ZJ40rvUd78XGJD5l8rVXB17O6vGvpl8QpFN9fQfbPcbmX6xk-9HwM0UCg-yEORaO1qhll4jh-NZnQG/s640/3.png" title="Homeschooling and Distance Learning can be a great challenge if you don't have the right resources for your students. Instead of assigning textbook reading or endless online searches, let your kids have fun with engaging activities as they practice skills and learn key content in American History, Geography, and more!" width="425" /></a></div>
<h4>
Teaching for Non-Teachers</h4>
Though the information at hand may be overwhelming for parents who are not used to teaching, there is a wealth of information available to help you put on your teacher hat and take charge in your homeschool classroom. Above all, keeping your child engaged throughout the school break is key. Though this time is confusing, scary, and stressful for all, maintaining a routine for your kids is vital for their mental and educational well-being.<br />
<br />
You can read more about how to spark a historical interest in your child with this blog post on <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2019/07/creating-interest-in-history-in.html">Creating an Interest in History</a>. You can also find tips on how to teach inquiry to your children, and how to appropriately and accurately use primary sources in the home school classroom, in this <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2019/07/teaching-inquiry-and-primary-source.html">blog post</a>.<br />
<br />
Happy Homeschooling!<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />
<br />
<div class="mailmunch-forms-widget-667933">
</div>
Brittany Cloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08941738619995540015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-64506206212115672272020-03-17T17:45:00.003-07:002020-03-30T07:44:11.152-07:00Brain Breaks for Teachers: Work Smarter, Not Harder During the COVID-19 QuarantineMany teachers were probably burning the midnight oil before the United States went into quarantine from the Novel Coronavirus. With teaching responsibilities moved to digital platforms, student (and parent) questions coming in all day long, and perhaps even your own children at home to coach through online schooling, you may be feeling more than a little stressed.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCA9k-mjarKTNeetLIIxWmWQQ10V-vMvDhBvOIj65zm0DY9e4jSDnZD4zjDHYD-SRs84v4bmwjnjV1n_EeuqhZbel2iPw5GVNdz2CiVeClyjQNoH_5S5BqesoEaEigh7gePIR4-da2Q8De/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Blog+Post+Templates.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="With teaching responsibilities moved to digital platforms, student (and parent) questions coming in all day long, and perhaps even your own children at home to coach through online schooling, you may be feeling more than a little stressed. Brain breaks are the key to staying sane during the quarantine. #brainbreaks #quarantine #teachingfromhome" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCA9k-mjarKTNeetLIIxWmWQQ10V-vMvDhBvOIj65zm0DY9e4jSDnZD4zjDHYD-SRs84v4bmwjnjV1n_EeuqhZbel2iPw5GVNdz2CiVeClyjQNoH_5S5BqesoEaEigh7gePIR4-da2Q8De/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Blog+Post+Templates.png" title="With teaching responsibilities moved to digital platforms, student (and parent) questions coming in all day long, and perhaps even your own children at home to coach through online schooling, you may be feeling more than a little stressed. Brain breaks are the key to staying sane during the quarantine. #brainbreaks #quarantine #teachingfromhome" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
It is very important to still take Brain Breaks just as you would in the classroom! Even though many of you are working from home, it isn't much of a vacation. You still work the same hours (sometimes even longer!). You still have to be available and on demand for the better part of your day. You have to field difficult topics and questions without verbally speaking. You may even be trying to fit in your own child's instruction amidst your regular teaching. Brain breaks are the key to staying sane during the quarantine.<br />
<br />
All of the brain breaks designed for the classroom can take place at home too. In fact, many of them will become even easier inside your own four walls! Especially with the stress surrounding the current state of our nation, you should certainly allow yourself a few minutes to check out from the chaos.<br />
<br />
To start, try the basic tips from the blog post on Self-Care, <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2019/08/put-on-your-oxygen-mask-first-self-care.html">Put on Your Oxygen Mask First: Self-Care in the First Month of School (and the rest of the year, too!)</a>.<br />
<br />
1. Try chair yoga! Stretch into a few poses in your office chair or roll a towel out on your living room floor for an even more engaging practice. Don't skip Savasana! The body can benefit the most from a few minutes of peace and quiet. Check out <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2019/09/15-yoga-poses-to-shed-teacher-tension.html">15 Yoga Poses to Shed the Teacher Tension and Stretch Through Chronic Desk-Job Pain</a>.<br />
<br />
2. Enjoy desk drinks & sneak-able snacks! But wait... you're at home, so there's no need to sneak! Allow yourself a favorite coffee drink or sweet dessert when tensions rise. Veg out on your favorite treat in between email replies or student outreach.<br />
<br />
3. Break for books! Now more than ever, it's important to unplug from the social media storm. You should stay apprised of current news but not allow yourself to be sucked into the endless scroll. Check out to a fantasy land for a few minutes each day.<br />
<br />
From the comfort of your own home, you can take even more brain breaks! You don't have to wait for the bell or your planning period.<br />
<br />
For more brain breaks, try some of the following:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Dance break! Turn on your favorite jam and wiggle to the beat. Many National dance studios are even streaming free ballet classes on Facebook.</li>
<li>Play period music. For a brain break with an educational twist, keep your focus with music from certain periods of history. </li>
<li>Color or draw. I'm sure your art teacher colleagues will tell you - you're never too old for art! </li>
<li>Crosswords, mazes, or word searches. The best brain breaks are those that allow you a few minutes of mindless distraction. Keep your brain spry by solving puzzle clues in between assignments. Try these <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/End-of-the-Year-World-History-Puzzles-Games-and-Relay-Activity-241801">End of the Year World History Puzzles</a> or these <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/End-of-the-Year-Modern-America-US-History-Puzzles-Games-and-Relay-Activity-4591013">End of the Year Modern America Activities</a>! </li>
<li>Travel! From the comfort of your own couch, of course. No need to risk exposure when you can see the world from your living room. Browse Google maps for your dream destinations or take virtual field trips at worldwide aquariums, zoos, or theaters.</li>
<li><a href="https://artsandculture.google.com/project/streetviews">Browse a world famous museum.</a> Also from the comfort of your own couch, travel through popular museums and view art installments, historical exhibits, and more! </li>
<li>Go sky high! Search your favorite roller coasters in POV mode on Youtube for an exciting adventure.</li>
<li>Dig for gold. Try <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Michele-Lucks-Social-Studies/Category/Scavenger-Hunts-38734">online scavenger hunts</a> for more fun, especially those to keep you thinking historically! </li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ7L5wNognVHPFoxvXkX1b3_vKW-7_Q0U41e6LFm3hJHaXRVZTWXM8I0rRP4T9agzIJW1hXHb8Lc_DU71pSa_Z7naSzE9W10c3wVa3qx2RzbiQtbw0y9dM8OXLWmlxWSTphPXrbAhjdRbB/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Blog+Post+Templates+%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Travel! From the comfort of your own couch, of course. No need to risk exposure when you can see the world from your living room. Browse Google maps for your dream destinations or take virtual field trips at worldwide aquariums, zoos, or theaters. #digitalfieldtrip #googletravel #digitaltravel #travelfromyourcouch" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ7L5wNognVHPFoxvXkX1b3_vKW-7_Q0U41e6LFm3hJHaXRVZTWXM8I0rRP4T9agzIJW1hXHb8Lc_DU71pSa_Z7naSzE9W10c3wVa3qx2RzbiQtbw0y9dM8OXLWmlxWSTphPXrbAhjdRbB/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Blog+Post+Templates+%25281%2529.png" title="Travel! From the comfort of your own couch, of course. No need to risk exposure when you can see the world from your living room. Browse Google maps for your dream destinations or take virtual field trips at worldwide aquariums, zoos, or theaters. #digitalfieldtrip #googletravel #digitaltravel #travelfromyourcouch" /></a></div>
<div>
These aren't just teacher brain breaks, either! These activities would also be great for kiddos of any age. Most importantly, no matter how old you are, prioritize your mental health and sanity in any way you can. Kentucky Governor, Andy Beshear, reminds Kentucky citizens of this vital fact and reiterates that social distancing is not isolation. </div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Beshear says, "Isolation is not what we're asking for and it's not healthy. Kids ought to continue to have a schedule and so should adults. You should continue to get outside. It doesn't mean that you close down your life and you hunker down in your home."</blockquote>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Lk_vBzt94eG-Znfh_7Cn_JpDFrW9E5XU54IbxohdzwIxaZn59uCerxuvwDoFn3NWs-vB1Zkakdpg-m9uHbixxdU9Ph1Pnp8f6yt8jnY25QF8PBnNAosHO7025Mw15xfxW72T0TC3vF8P/s1600/7.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Treat your brain, body, and sanity with love and compassion throughout this difficult time! Take all the brain breaks you can, and try to stay positive throughout this state of emergency. Best wishes! #teachingsanity #brainbreaksforteachers #teachertips" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Lk_vBzt94eG-Znfh_7Cn_JpDFrW9E5XU54IbxohdzwIxaZn59uCerxuvwDoFn3NWs-vB1Zkakdpg-m9uHbixxdU9Ph1Pnp8f6yt8jnY25QF8PBnNAosHO7025Mw15xfxW72T0TC3vF8P/s640/7.png" title="Treat your brain, body, and sanity with love and compassion throughout this difficult time! Take all the brain breaks you can, and try to stay positive throughout this state of emergency. Best wishes! #teachingsanity #brainbreaksforteachers #teachertips" width="425" /></a></div>
Treat your brain, body, and sanity with love and compassion throughout this difficult time! Take all the brain breaks you can, and try to stay positive throughout this state of emergency. Best wishes!<br />
<br />
Happy Teaching, from wherever you may be teaching,<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />
Enter the code below:
<br />
<div class="mailmunch-forms-widget-667436">
</div>
Brittany Cloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08941738619995540015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-64555935355997737022020-02-20T10:30:00.000-08:002020-02-20T10:30:18.437-08:00Creating an Interactive (and Engaging) Classroom for Effective Behavior ManagementMiddle and high school teachers often state that their greatest challenge is finding effective classroom management strategies. Classroom management is usually taught in education preparation programs, but it is skimmed over or introduced from older manuals and programs that worked with students from previous generations. Our current students require newer and more effective strategies that deal with the world we live in today.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-b2Z4FAvbLRed1IA0-I48VX868Rx1qRHhGpaGjn0qmDieFS5G5ZwSqb0Pst1FVgBUoqanfznRs0lOFEgKdRYl8fIfkvShJ-kZo2V3vFsqdk20hqvmC7ch8ekz2ZCXXwX349xVKliEDiqy/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Controversial+Topics+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Middle and high school teachers often state that their greatest challenge is finding effective classroom management strategies. Classroom management is usually taught in education preparation programs, but it is skimmed over or introduced from older manuals and programs that worked with students from previous generations. Our current students require newer and more effective strategies that deal with the world we live in today. #teachingstrategies #classroommanagement #teachinghighschool #teachingmiddleschool" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-b2Z4FAvbLRed1IA0-I48VX868Rx1qRHhGpaGjn0qmDieFS5G5ZwSqb0Pst1FVgBUoqanfznRs0lOFEgKdRYl8fIfkvShJ-kZo2V3vFsqdk20hqvmC7ch8ekz2ZCXXwX349xVKliEDiqy/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Controversial+Topics+1.png" title="Middle and high school teachers often state that their greatest challenge is finding effective classroom management strategies. Classroom management is usually taught in education preparation programs, but it is skimmed over or introduced from older manuals and programs that worked with students from previous generations. Our current students require newer and more effective strategies that deal with the world we live in today. #teachingstrategies #classroommanagement #teachinghighschool #teachingmiddleschool" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
<u>Classroom Management Does NOT Stand-Alone</u></h3>
Older methods of classroom management rely on checklists, call words, or calendars that responded to inappropriate behaviors. They are reactionary strategies. These no longer work effectively and often require more time and training than they are worth.<br />
<br />
In addition to the ineffectiveness of stand-alone programs, these strategies often ask teachers to step away from teaching their content to teach appropriate behaviors or to implement appropriate responses to negative student interactions. In classrooms where time is already short for ever-growing curriculum standards, taking time out for interruptions is not effective.<br />
<br />
<h3>
<u>Interactive and Engaging Classrooms</u></h3>
One of the best pieces of advice given by more experienced teachers is to keep your students busy. When your students are busy, they have less time to find trouble. This is very true, but the method in which you keep students busy is the key.<br />
<br />
Text-reading, repetitive desk work, or even online activities that do not draw student interest can lead to student boredom and a lack of engagement.<br />
<br />
<b>An Interactive Classroom is NOT (solely):</b><br />
Using Internet Resources<br />
Using an Interactive Notebook format<br />
Using Google Drive or Google Classroom<br />
<br />
It is <i>Interpersonal </i>learning.<br />
<br />
A truly interactive classroom is <i>ACTIVE</i>! It involves students being up and moving around the room. Students are talking and interacting with one another. They are practicing skills like inquiry, investigation, and analysis. And they are working cooperatively to solve problems.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3QUb10Nav5xOfI5I0CoIMDo5DKDaFKJ6o7mtjcExaRObsiPgEnA3BqYQt8p3l2dZJBLNasShwtQ1l62yltE7Oug-XD51JO8lJu3W6q99GB8bqfY9nMfqRzVbRQTfnjEZAC5S2HHTBjkWa/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-01-09+at+3.13.30+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A truly interactive classroom is ACTIVE! It involves students being up and moving around the room. Students are talking and interacting with one another. They are practicing skills like inquiry, investigation, and analysis. And they are working cooperatively to solve problems. #interactivestrategies #teachingtips" border="0" data-original-height="1148" data-original-width="1548" height="473" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3QUb10Nav5xOfI5I0CoIMDo5DKDaFKJ6o7mtjcExaRObsiPgEnA3BqYQt8p3l2dZJBLNasShwtQ1l62yltE7Oug-XD51JO8lJu3W6q99GB8bqfY9nMfqRzVbRQTfnjEZAC5S2HHTBjkWa/s640/Screen+Shot+2020-01-09+at+3.13.30+PM.png" title="A truly interactive classroom is ACTIVE! It involves students being up and moving around the room. Students are talking and interacting with one another. They are practicing skills like inquiry, investigation, and analysis. And they are working cooperatively to solve problems. #interactivestrategies #teachingtips" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP1BwuqEt9Mp0U82UWuAuGx6L92jlAjaOCFaLp5miO4qWBT7-HSsrGhlAt-XlhhdNHNb_8AvUpVWCIFTeibG6CAOhaGPGcau3OudTiqm-rSi9CM3Kq0CPfTXSrR9XZf6Hozd1TjN9fZLf_/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-01-09+at+3.13.02+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A truly interactive classroom is ACTIVE! It involves students being up and moving around the room. Students are talking and interacting with one another. They are practicing skills like inquiry, investigation, and analysis. And they are working cooperatively to solve problems. #interactivestrategies #teachingtips" border="0" data-original-height="1140" data-original-width="1554" height="467" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP1BwuqEt9Mp0U82UWuAuGx6L92jlAjaOCFaLp5miO4qWBT7-HSsrGhlAt-XlhhdNHNb_8AvUpVWCIFTeibG6CAOhaGPGcau3OudTiqm-rSi9CM3Kq0CPfTXSrR9XZf6Hozd1TjN9fZLf_/s640/Screen+Shot+2020-01-09+at+3.13.02+PM.png" title="A truly interactive classroom is ACTIVE! It involves students being up and moving around the room. Students are talking and interacting with one another. They are practicing skills like inquiry, investigation, and analysis. And they are working cooperatively to solve problems. #interactivestrategies #teachingtips" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
<u>Creating an Interactive Classroom</u></h3>
Creating an interactive classroom does not have to be a separate practice from lesson planning or mapping out your curriculum. Interactivity can even be utilized when using more traditional resources or with tech-based programs. It simply requires movement and interaction.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Seating</h4>
Start by changing up your seating. Move desks into groups or pair of student desks for easier collaboration. If you can move to flexible seating, you can strategically create options for rewarding students simply by offering a seat change. And if all else fails, remove the desks from your classroom. It may sound crazy, but students love sitting on the floor and stretching out to work on assignments with one another. Invest in pillows or rugs and let the cooperation begin!<br />
<br />
<h4>
Grouping</h4>
Student grouping and collaboration is vital for an interactive classroom. When students are allowed to interact, they ask more questions, engage more in discussion, and think more critically about the content they are researching. While some will suggest mixed-ability grouping, varied grouping can be even more beneficial for all students. Change up the groups open and even allow student-chosen grouping from time to time.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Strategies</h4>
Any activity can be turned into an interactive lesson. Even text reading can evolve from an individual, silent activity to a collaborative, group exchange of reading and discussion. However, some strategies lend themselves to more effective collaboration and learning than others.<br />
<br />
<h3>
<u>The Teacher's Role in an Interactive Classroom</u></h3>
Interactive classrooms do not only require student movement, but also teacher movement. Your role still requires teaching and direction-giving, but also involves movement around the room to guide students toward greater engagement and deeper thought. You will teach, facilitate, interact, guide, question, assess, offer feedback, and offer redirection. Steps in your instruction that have previously been done through paper exchange (grading) can now be done orally and within the process of active learning.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQcvFyEMYIwmOaaOym3k-aDeraoW49C6fJoUfKW0vUWo3Te_H7VojjPrjUdPkmoms5dLAZMbn9kuowAN12iTOkAIkFC7ZpYEQ2N43lRA5IIFgiiqw0Bd9QQgUxuyMKZnLJC-FUNTIfEARQ/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Controversial+Topics.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="While creating an interactive classroom does require more planning and preparation, it will have an incredible payoff in your classroom. #interactiveclassroom" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQcvFyEMYIwmOaaOym3k-aDeraoW49C6fJoUfKW0vUWo3Te_H7VojjPrjUdPkmoms5dLAZMbn9kuowAN12iTOkAIkFC7ZpYEQ2N43lRA5IIFgiiqw0Bd9QQgUxuyMKZnLJC-FUNTIfEARQ/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Controversial+Topics.png" title="While creating an interactive classroom does require more planning and preparation, it will have an incredible payoff in your classroom. #interactiveclassroom" width="425" /></a></div>
While creating an interactive classroom does require more planning and preparation, it will have an incredible payoff in your classroom. You will find that your students are more engaged, interested in the content, and willing to participate. In turn, this will create better learning and less behavior issues. Your classroom management will be taken care of by your new classroom instruction strategies.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Happy Teaching!</h4>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="mailmunch-forms-widget-667436">
</div>
Brittany Cloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08941738619995540015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-7726318178755043372020-01-16T16:43:00.001-08:002020-01-16T16:43:51.132-08:00I Have a Dream: Teaching Unity for Martin Luther King Day and Black History Month<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Over five decades ago, the inspiring Martin Luther King, Jr., summed up our purpose as teachers.</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #333333;">"</span><span style="color: #333333;">The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.” </span></span></i></blockquote>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimpTiDbRXXvGdyCHLrqVLx2VVcane7OPTu17vHmvC4Ufc8rkEg79Ji3D2zfPIjcj0_VG-IIUaCyGECGtd0AsjKu7q6n7L-MlLe0BGVFKM3FH5LDJSFJ9oGoVvWCKFKwNuBRs28tGjOjn-Q/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Controversial+Topics+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimpTiDbRXXvGdyCHLrqVLx2VVcane7OPTu17vHmvC4Ufc8rkEg79Ji3D2zfPIjcj0_VG-IIUaCyGECGtd0AsjKu7q6n7L-MlLe0BGVFKM3FH5LDJSFJ9oGoVvWCKFKwNuBRs28tGjOjn-Q/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Controversial+Topics+1.png" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">While the politics of our public school system may challenge this sentiment daily, we as teachers know the true motivation beyond our dedication. We hope to leave each student better than before they crossed the threshold of our classroom. Our goal is to foster intelligence plus character in our young students.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Each year as our country celebrates Martin Luther King Day in January and then continues the conversation with Black History Month in February, we often wish to incorporate the history behind the celebrations into our lesson plans. Though I encourage you to include this in your lessons every day (as well as teaching about other cultures and contributors to history), I think this time can be very instrumental in driving the conversation in our classrooms toward a message of love and unity. </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">While working to advance civil rights in the late 1950s and 1960s, Martin Luther King Jr. spoke out about using a nonviolent approach and civil disobedience to disrupt the system that was failing people of color. Surrounded by hatred and violence, MLK chose a message of love instead.</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><i>"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."</i></span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">As modern day teachers, we often get bogged down by the sheer volume of curriculum that should be covered in the course of a school year. Drowning in lesson plans, we may stray from the idea that our lessons should be laced with more than content; we should be teaching love, unity, and compassion to tomorrow's leaders. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghqpZlDsCWj9vLqyW2sFDFYRns5IYf__mTCs60GQJK_QhILaj9KP41wnGS80r3R-T5PSn2ZlgigFwrA3c30QiAPKoOh0CEiA60CZf6tVZzmlQAoc4ICRe_FSZDXlrphZCG159cP56d8uU4/s1600/01269v.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="Each year as our country celebrates Martin Luther King Day in January and then continues the conversation with Black History Month in February, we often wish to incorporate the history behind the celebrations into our lesson plans. Though I encourage you to include this in your lessons every day (as well as teaching about other cultures and contributors to history), I think this time can be very instrumental in driving the conversation in our classrooms toward a message of love and unity. #mlk #martinlutherking #blackhistory #love #unity #united #socialstudies" border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="902" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghqpZlDsCWj9vLqyW2sFDFYRns5IYf__mTCs60GQJK_QhILaj9KP41wnGS80r3R-T5PSn2ZlgigFwrA3c30QiAPKoOh0CEiA60CZf6tVZzmlQAoc4ICRe_FSZDXlrphZCG159cP56d8uU4/s400/01269v.jpg" title="Each year as our country celebrates Martin Luther King Day in January and then continues the conversation with Black History Month in February, we often wish to incorporate the history behind the celebrations into our lesson plans. Though I encourage you to include this in your lessons every day (as well as teaching about other cultures and contributors to history), I think this time can be very instrumental in driving the conversation in our classrooms toward a message of love and unity. #mlk #martinlutherking #blackhistory #love #unity #united #socialstudies" width="351" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In fact, even the name of the discipline, Social Studies, lends to teaching beyond the history book. Social Studies teachers have an obligation to teach the interactions and characteristics of the human race. By glossing over this important holiday (and upcoming Black History Month) by sticking to the history, we may be doing a great disservice to our classrooms of tiny humans. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">You can empower your students by helping them to find commonalities and similarities by providing a united classroom community and a safe space to embrace differences. </span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">“We may have all come on different ships, but we’re in the same boat now.”</span></i></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">There are so many great lesson plans and activities to incorporate in your lesson planning for January and February, and beyond. Try some of the following activities to celebrate Martin Luther King Day or the upcoming Black History Month. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<u><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Martin-Luther-King-Jr-Scavenger-Hunt-Task-Card-or-Walking-Tour-Activity-MLK-Day-1029958?aref=itlkxff1"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Martin Luther King Walking Tour</span></a></u><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Try this non-traditional activity to get students moving and thinking. Engage students in a real-life scavenger hunt to collect clues about Martin Luther King, Jr., his life, and his contributions. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<u><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/MLK-Jr-Martin-Luther-King-Jr-Google-Drive-Interactive-Lesson-2285095"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Digital 1:1 Martin Luther King Activity</span></a></u><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Looking for something more 1:1? This activity allows students to work independently to uncover important facts about Martin Luther King, Jr. and his work.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<u><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Martin-Luther-King-Jr-Quotes-Analysis-Task-Card-Activity-Set-MLK-Day-1618724"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Quick Quotes Activity</span></a></u><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This one-day activity explores Martin Luther King, Jr.'s own spoken words, analyzing his different political causes with quotes on varying topics.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<u><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/MLK-I-Have-A-Dream-Speech-American-Speeches-Document-Analysis-Martin-Luther-King-1605255?fbclid=IwAR13AwbsDUy44GGCO1IBxhCAXNnIH6k0i1_T1LzQy773gzDyExkmdFB0sQw">"I Have a Dream" Speech Primary Source Analysi</a>s</span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Want to explore MLK from a literary perspective? This primary source analysis breaks down Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<u><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Important-African-Americans-Biography-Centers-Activity-Black-History-Month-454954"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Significant Contributions of African Americans</span></a></u><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Continue your teaching into Black History Month with this centers activity, meant to discuss significant contributions of African Americans.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<u><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Analyzing-Quotes-of-African-American-Leaders-Task-Cards-Black-History-Month-1642692?fbclid=IwAR3mXHBCW7YnLcS-jHOaLrA0pvQ9p1b6XXAHsq-uO51Iv4WitS14UR1j-HM"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-style: italic;">FREE! </b>Significant African Americans Quote Analysis</span></a></u><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Dive deeper into the contributions of significant African Americans by analyzing quotes in this <b>free </b>activity!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">No matter which activities you choose to incorporate in your upcoming lessons, remember the important reason for teaching these sensitive lessons. Remind yourself, as well as your students, that even the smallest step toward progress is indeed progress.</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">“If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way.”</span></i></blockquote>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEzd9T0uzuXZ8feugY4VtGqYJqgwCseCpZv6R6rMZ6I98SjVRdT91nvM1099E95s1Fi-b3vmpAnK5Zv6q_qCO6Kjb53GZRL8RlkflLh6yD70vdQVTqeqwGNI2tIn-mZxDyMp4NP1mcjV2q/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Controversial+Topics.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="By teaching these difficult lessons to the impressionable young minds in your classroom, you may make a bigger impact than is conceivable. Continue to build a strong classroom community of open-minded, compassionate humans, and you will be successful in teaching. #teaching #socialstudies #students #history" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEzd9T0uzuXZ8feugY4VtGqYJqgwCseCpZv6R6rMZ6I98SjVRdT91nvM1099E95s1Fi-b3vmpAnK5Zv6q_qCO6Kjb53GZRL8RlkflLh6yD70vdQVTqeqwGNI2tIn-mZxDyMp4NP1mcjV2q/s400/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Controversial+Topics.png" title="By teaching these difficult lessons to the impressionable young minds in your classroom, you may make a bigger impact than is conceivable. Continue to build a strong classroom community of open-minded, compassionate humans, and you will be successful in teaching. #teaching #socialstudies #students #history" width="265" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">By teaching these difficult lessons to the impressionable young minds in your classroom, you may make a bigger impact than is conceivable. Continue to build a strong classroom community of open-minded, compassionate humans, and you will be successful in teaching.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Happy Teaching!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="mailmunch-forms-widget-667940">
</div>
Brittany Cloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08941738619995540015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-75416306741134829512020-01-05T16:46:00.000-08:002020-01-05T16:46:39.405-08:00Drawing Games in the Classroom: Themed Variations on the Urban GameYou've likely heard of the <b>Urban Game </b>that is spreading like wildfire. An interesting exercise for secondary <b>Social Studies classes</b>, the <b>teacher </b>rapidly instructs <b>students </b>to modify a <b>big paper </b>drawing of an urban city. At the end of the <b>exercise</b>, students can make <b>comparisons </b>and draw <b>parallels </b>to the challenges faced by urbanization of their city.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw8myBaYdvzuANeNK0UGEer-BjVPdryeUrdQlEZiKWgVGJeReh_xn1Q-ATHqqFuA624xhhx3YUaH3p60nL2hs-DEpIhXRBiQzX3cFh4LwwBj1Vsppl81i-GefGMhbBW31UzPzsEgArEIs0/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Controversial+Topics+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="You've likely heard of the Urban Game that is spreading like wildfire. An interesting exercise for secondary Social Studies classes, the teacher rapidly instructs students to modify a big paper drawing of an urban city. At the end of the exercise, students can make comparisons and draw parallels to the challenges faced by urbanization of their city. #urbangame #socialstudies #lessonplanning #bigpaperactivity" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw8myBaYdvzuANeNK0UGEer-BjVPdryeUrdQlEZiKWgVGJeReh_xn1Q-ATHqqFuA624xhhx3YUaH3p60nL2hs-DEpIhXRBiQzX3cFh4LwwBj1Vsppl81i-GefGMhbBW31UzPzsEgArEIs0/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Controversial+Topics+1.png" title="You've likely heard of the Urban Game that is spreading like wildfire. An interesting exercise for secondary Social Studies classes, the teacher rapidly instructs students to modify a big paper drawing of an urban city. At the end of the exercise, students can make comparisons and draw parallels to the challenges faced by urbanization of their city. #urbangame #socialstudies #lessonplanning #bigpaperactivity" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The Urban Game is great in the classroom because it allows students to step outside the box and tap into their right brains for artistic skills and inspired creativity. Students have to turn on their listening ears, block out distractions, and work collaboratively to accomplish the assignment. In my previous post, <i><a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2019/12/teamwork-and-collaboration-in-classroom.html" target="_blank"><b>Teamwork and Collaboration in the Classroom: An Exercise to Assess Direction Following</b></a></i>, I introduced the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/American-Revolution-Revolutionary-War-Introduction-Drawing-Game-5038071" target="_blank">American Revolution Drawing Game</a>, a spin-off of the Urban Game meant to walk students through the booming revolution, one advancement (or setback) at a time.<br />
<br />
But this drawing game has value outside your unit on the American Revolution, too. There are so many ways to modify the Drawing Game to study different time periods, units, and regional differences.<br />
<br />
You can introduce your unit on Westward Expansion with the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Westward-Expansion-in-America-Introduction-Drawing-Game-American-West-5041647" target="_blank">Westward Expansion Drawing Game</a>. Covering the Transcontinental Railroad, immigration, Chinese Railroad Workers, the California Gold Rush, the Pony Express, the Oregon Trail, the Louisiana Purchase, and more, this Drawing Game can introduce students to the Expansion of America in a fun and engaging way.<br />
<br />
Students can also dive into the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/American-Civil-War-Introduction-Drawing-Game-5123738" target="_blank">American Civil War Drawing Game</a>, where they'll discover Slavery in the US, the Abolition Movement, the Missouri Compromise, Harriet Tubman & the Underground Railroad, Fort Sumter, the Battles of Big Run and Gettysburg, the Emancipation Proclamation, and more.<br />
<br />
The <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Immigration-into-America-Introduction-Drawing-Game-1850-1910-Gilded-Age-5125362" target="_blank">Immigration into America: 1850 to 1910 Drawing Game</a> covers the Gilded Age through the lenses of immigration, urbanization, overcrowding, factories and employment, Ellis Island, population differences, and more.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho0k0RmU-HJaw64e8g-WMRdQEo0io4JcUz_CHkJVuJ_3bMMi0wdqkgVPrqpsEx_a5uBZ6Az6b4_6t5QeZ1zaOu1nTeXJ8b_WHymAGEFZW2XraQ6ar4wZ_Xva66XdQVxgLN8YEmTrMV4YT3/s1600/drawing+games2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="If you choose to do the Drawing Games in small groups, students can also benefit greatly as they develop their communication and collaboration skills, fostering a solid classroom community. #groupwork #collaboration #teamwork" border="0" data-original-height="393" data-original-width="1054" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho0k0RmU-HJaw64e8g-WMRdQEo0io4JcUz_CHkJVuJ_3bMMi0wdqkgVPrqpsEx_a5uBZ6Az6b4_6t5QeZ1zaOu1nTeXJ8b_WHymAGEFZW2XraQ6ar4wZ_Xva66XdQVxgLN8YEmTrMV4YT3/s640/drawing+games2.png" title="If you choose to do the Drawing Games in small groups, students can also benefit greatly as they develop their communication and collaboration skills, fostering a solid classroom community. #groupwork #collaboration #teamwork" width="640" /></a></div>
Each Drawing Game activity includes the teacher script, a sample image of a completed map, debriefing notes, and suggested follow-up questions and activities. By participating, students practice listening skills, mapping, designing a key, following directions, time-lining, critical thinking, and inquiry. If you choose to do the Drawing Games in small groups, students can also benefit greatly as they develop their communication and collaboration skills, fostering a solid classroom community.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoheQ2XKf3P-8MxYJYDbHwOR1dbji1lmGdRVORx4_oOCrWH7Z4muUcC0uMFRJpezIZ1snRp3OYY-e1x26OlrYDyV24iI3GGNxcL1pW6Hs-qp5YOFpxYPOSFlGKoPOEsDk-WNwaWzkej4_2/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Controversial+Topics.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Drawing Games not only inspire your students and force them to look at the topic through a different lens, but they're also fun and engaging! #lessonplanning #unitplanning #funforteachers #funlessons #funactivities" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoheQ2XKf3P-8MxYJYDbHwOR1dbji1lmGdRVORx4_oOCrWH7Z4muUcC0uMFRJpezIZ1snRp3OYY-e1x26OlrYDyV24iI3GGNxcL1pW6Hs-qp5YOFpxYPOSFlGKoPOEsDk-WNwaWzkej4_2/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Controversial+Topics.png" title="Drawing Games not only inspire your students and force them to look at the topic through a different lens, but they're also fun and engaging! #lessonplanning #unitplanning #funforteachers #funlessons #funactivities" width="425" /></a>Drawing Games not only inspire your students and force them to look at the topic through a different lens, but they're also fun and engaging! Since they're so abstract, students may enjoy participating in the downtime before a break, or in a low-stress activity right after an extended holiday! These activities are great as introductions to a unit, or as reflection activities after you've already delved into study.<br />
<br />
More Drawing Games are coming soon. What topic or theme would you like to see in a future Drawing Game?<br />
<br />
Happy <strike>Teaching</strike> DRAWING!<br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />
<br />
<div class="mailmunch-forms-widget-667933">
</div>
Michele Luckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15138061226034855643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-2712496632252614922019-12-01T19:13:00.003-08:002019-12-01T19:13:57.329-08:00Teamwork and Collaboration in the Classroom: An Exercise to Assess Direction FollowingHow do you feel when a hundred different directions are thrown your way? Maybe your principal comes into your classroom after a stressful class period, listing off five things to-do within the next week? Or a student asks questions about an upcoming assignment, in rapid-fire succession? Or even in your personal life, a significant other lists off the grocery list quickly and without repetition, leaving you scrambling to capture the necessities on a scrap piece of paper?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWXRmcJU0g4Ssle8tW_NBEIVdUogPBQuF7EM1krmilYCFaHy6-FFWpWRtwt9DRwnMaiO0bamXh630KrLARzmABpPewJBK8U44yc3wzJfuF1EvNEGZLIvuT1OyJm3PJOVzzn_Akb9fwWltX/s1600/Copy+of+Controversial+Topics+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Our brains are hard-wired for processing, and our students spend much time in elementary, middle, and high school developing and improving upon these processing skills. However, we often enjoy the luxury of slowing things down, repeating them, rereading them, or asking for clarification. If this luxury is taken away, our brains overload and our sympathetic nervous system switches on. We are no longer processing information thoroughly and effectively; we're simply cataloging and sorting as quickly as our brains are able, often missing key information. #processing #lessonplanning #processingskills #learningstyles #repetition" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWXRmcJU0g4Ssle8tW_NBEIVdUogPBQuF7EM1krmilYCFaHy6-FFWpWRtwt9DRwnMaiO0bamXh630KrLARzmABpPewJBK8U44yc3wzJfuF1EvNEGZLIvuT1OyJm3PJOVzzn_Akb9fwWltX/s640/Copy+of+Controversial+Topics+1.png" title="Our brains are hard-wired for processing, and our students spend much time in elementary, middle, and high school developing and improving upon these processing skills. However, we often enjoy the luxury of slowing things down, repeating them, rereading them, or asking for clarification. If this luxury is taken away, our brains overload and our sympathetic nervous system switches on. We are no longer processing information thoroughly and effectively; we're simply cataloging and sorting as quickly as our brains are able, often missing key information. #processing #lessonplanning #processingskills #learningstyles #repetition" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Our <b>brains </b>are hard-wired for processing, and our <b>students </b>spend much time in <b>elementary</b>, <b>middle</b>, and <b>high school </b>developing and improving upon these <b>processing skills</b>. However, we often enjoy the luxury of slowing things down, repeating them, rereading them, or asking for clarification. If this luxury is taken away, our brains overload and our <b>sympathetic nervous system </b>switches on. We are no longer <b>processing information </b>thoroughly and effectively; we're simply <b>cataloging </b>and <b>sorting </b>as quickly as our brains are able, often missing <b>key information</b>.<br />
<br />
Now imagine if you put your significant other on speaker phone while he or she rattles off the grocery list. Your children each have a pen in hand, a notebook at the ready. Your youngest turns on a cell phone recording so you can double check their finished list. They capture the list without missing a single item, and one even doodles you a silly picture to enjoy while standing in the checkout line. Your sympathetic nervous system thanks you and goes back to sleep, having woken with a start when the phone rang. You may even feel a warm and fuzzy feeling that often escapes you - sometimes, we call that relaxed!<br />
<br />
Your students function quite the same way. Throw a ton of information at them, and they'll shut down, experiencing an automatic overload of their brains! They probably won't retain or understand any of it. But, if you break things down into simpler terms, give explicit directions, and provide clarification, they're much more likely to absorb the information at hand.<br />
<br />
Sometimes, though, it may be important to kick their sympathetic nervous systems into high gear because you're teaching them a hard-learned lesson.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhttpJuqZY-2end6dsuTkMfFYuy0B7mrcO-YBOv0ewwdmQmBCPfARKfXvk8_Ru5RuN5GfT6LtoI6QBW09w4ctEreJ4vot5LJDue7kw2VxMcdFuPPIPSYE2kreHQm7IonFhyphenhyphenMEaV_bVmwdQb/s1600/79835484_553117502146377_5046567095123312640_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A true Social Studies lesson is one that leaves an impact beyond that of a textbook quiz or multiple-choice standardized test. Impactful Social Studies lessons transport one's mind, but also one's heart. By enticing a fight or flight reaction from your students, they're likely to feel the impact of the lesson. #socialstudies #lessonplan #socialstudieslesson #teachingsocialstudies" border="0" data-original-height="1277" data-original-width="1600" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhttpJuqZY-2end6dsuTkMfFYuy0B7mrcO-YBOv0ewwdmQmBCPfARKfXvk8_Ru5RuN5GfT6LtoI6QBW09w4ctEreJ4vot5LJDue7kw2VxMcdFuPPIPSYE2kreHQm7IonFhyphenhyphenMEaV_bVmwdQb/s320/79835484_553117502146377_5046567095123312640_n.jpg" title="A true Social Studies lesson is one that leaves an impact beyond that of a textbook quiz or multiple-choice standardized test. Impactful Social Studies lessons transport one's mind, but also one's heart. By enticing a fight or flight reaction from your students, they're likely to feel the impact of the lesson. #socialstudies #lessonplan #socialstudieslesson #teachingsocialstudies" width="320" /></a></div>
For instance, imagine the year is 1760 and we are in the American colony of Massachusetts. The scene begins in the harbor city of Boston.<br />
<br />
Immediately, your mind probably transports you elsewhere, and you hone in on your new location and era. However, you not only want your students to learn about a moment in history, but you want them to experience it. A true Social Studies lesson is one that leaves an impact beyond that of a textbook quiz or multiple-choice standardized test. Impactful Social Studies lessons transport one's mind, but also one's heart. By enticing a fight or flight reaction from your students, they're likely to feel the impact of the lesson.<br />
<br />
Since this heightened sense of arousal clashes with the need to capture details and mass information, students may feel conflicted and check out. By employing the teamwork and collaboration of their classmates, just like the pencil-armed offspring in the earlier example, your students can work together to relieve the stress of the situation, adequately capturing the information at hand while still feeling the "stress" of the situation in which you've input them.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Now, it should be said that we don't want to intentionally stress our students out - at least, not regularly and not without a purpose. But, when teaching students about important historical events that have an emotional impact, a little fuel on the fire may inspire students to relate to the events on a deeper level. Also, they may understand the chaos or disorder felt by those who experienced the events firsthand. Bringing this aspect of stress into the classroom helps students to feel the dire situational stressors felt by those in wartime, in oppressed cultures, in less than desirable circumstances, in a way that they otherwise may overlook.<br />
<br />
You can take your students to that harbor city in 1760 as well, walking them through the American Revolution with little direction. Forcing them to face the chaos and disorder of the economic developments, passed legislature, and even deaths during this brutal time. By instructing your students to work together in small groups of two or three, they can work on this <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2016/09/how-to-teach-with-big-paper-in.html">big paper</a> exercise with a small dose of that cortisol increase but also the collaboration of their classmates, testing their teamwork skills and how well they follow directions all at once. Students will understand, after the fact, why the lesson was presented in such a rushed manner. And hopefully, they'll take away a bit of that empathy within the lesson.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis7ovyVT9Mg7J8mJFRGU_Wm_v4ldsR2b2S9uK0JNG_842vxdQiQWOKaoI0mO7TGRbqeDv2A6fQPsNZ0L3SxvzFVY07yUvtQEZA563djWgv1Q8XkGRHG9DW4K_DLTnhmldgwI6MMexZozi1/s1600/Copy+of+Controversial+Topics.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Try the American Revolution Drawing Game in your classroom for a multi-faceted lesson plan on the history of the American Revolution, teamwork and collaboration skills, and direction-following. #newteachers #teaching #teachinghistory #teachingamericanrevolution #americanrevolution" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis7ovyVT9Mg7J8mJFRGU_Wm_v4ldsR2b2S9uK0JNG_842vxdQiQWOKaoI0mO7TGRbqeDv2A6fQPsNZ0L3SxvzFVY07yUvtQEZA563djWgv1Q8XkGRHG9DW4K_DLTnhmldgwI6MMexZozi1/s640/Copy+of+Controversial+Topics.png" title="Try the American Revolution Drawing Game in your classroom for a multi-faceted lesson plan on the history of the American Revolution, teamwork and collaboration skills, and direction-following. #newteachers #teaching #teachinghistory #teachingamericanrevolution #americanrevolution" width="424" /></a><br />
Try the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/American-Revolution-Revolutionary-War-Introduction-Drawing-Game-5038071">American Revolution Drawing Game</a> in your classroom for a multi-faceted lesson plan on the history of the American Revolution, teamwork and collaboration skills, and direction-following. You give rapid-fire verbal descriptors to your class, instructing them to capture the city of Boston on a freehand map, like the one pictured above - with no repeats or clarification! See how well they work together to test their listening and processing skills.<br />
<br />
Happy Teaching!<br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />
<br />
<div class="mailmunch-forms-widget-667933">
</div>
Brittany Cloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08941738619995540015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-74524861855100451212019-11-14T13:00:00.000-08:002019-11-14T13:00:05.787-08:00How to Use Sticky Notes for Assessment Using <b>sticky notes</b> for <b>assessment </b>in the <b>classroom </b>may seem overly simple, but even first year <b>secondary</b> <b>teachers</b> are likely running out of fresh and exciting ideas for <b>lesson</b> <b>planning</b>. Instead of overthinking the next lesson or wracking your brain for new ideas, go back to the basics with sticky notes!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtJbV7xNKibqfGODWD-22QW-oVTEPYMTjwEL_PAW5iwyQkqEEXRRCvh_Pe5eXT6Fvb3viVKXwVdJQ5z4n3ZT5OQ8DgMFcTmLKNovzHDDp0nx3yS9RT3_zQbK5lI6uwEQwV7jvEE0azm_bi/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+3+strategies+for+introducing+world+religions.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Using sticky notes for assessment in the classroom may seem overly simple, but even first year secondary teachers are likely running out of fresh and exciting ideas for lesson planning. Instead of overthinking the next lesson or wracking your brain for new ideas, go back to the basics with sticky notes! #stickynotes #interactivelessons #lessonplanning #visualteaching" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtJbV7xNKibqfGODWD-22QW-oVTEPYMTjwEL_PAW5iwyQkqEEXRRCvh_Pe5eXT6Fvb3viVKXwVdJQ5z4n3ZT5OQ8DgMFcTmLKNovzHDDp0nx3yS9RT3_zQbK5lI6uwEQwV7jvEE0azm_bi/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+3+strategies+for+introducing+world+religions.png" title="Using sticky notes for assessment in the classroom may seem overly simple, but even first year secondary teachers are likely running out of fresh and exciting ideas for lesson planning. Instead of overthinking the next lesson or wracking your brain for new ideas, go back to the basics with sticky notes! #stickynotes #interactivelessons #lessonplanning #visualteaching" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Sticky notes are the perfect lesson companion for <b>middle school </b>and <b>high school classes </b>because they're inexpensive, you probably have a ton of them already lying around, and they are extremely versatile! Though it may seem like your options are limited with sticky notes, they really are limitless when it comes to "sticking" them into your lesson plans.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">C</span>OLOR WARS. As sticky notes come in many different sizes and colors, they're innately ideal for comparing and contrasting, categorizing, or differentiating. You can use sticky notes of the same color or size to highlight similarities or group things by likeness. You can use differently-colored sticky notes to bring attention to differences or separate unlike items. By using them for the most basic of tasks, sticky notes can make the repetitive process of searching for comparative qualities easy and fun. Students could even compile their sticky notes onto a large <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2016/09/how-to-teach-with-big-paper-in.html" target="_blank">big paper Venn Diagram</a> or other group response display.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">B</span>IG IDEAS, SMALL SPACE. You can also use sticky notes to make a large, daunting assignment seem quick and easy, lessening anxiety among your students. Assigning an opinion writing prompt or response group activity may illicit groans from your class, but reinforcing that students focus on the important ideas by limiting their response to the small three-by-three square may ease the stress.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">S</span>TICK TO EXIT. Instead of having students log their exit slip in their overflowing <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2018/08/how-to-set-up-interactive-notebook.html" target="_blank">Interactive Notebooks</a>, offer them reprieve from the three-ring binder by passing out sticky notes for exit slips. Students can stick their responses to the white board on the way out.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">A</span>NONYMOUS NOTES. Students could orchestrate a debate by anonymously picking a side and then writing out their evidence, support, or opinion. Have students draw someone else's sticky note from a jar or hat to present an anonymous opinion to the class as part of a structured debate or lighthearted discussion group.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">M</span>ATCHING GAME. Use sticky notes to match data points, such as populations of countries. Label large paper with country names and fill out that county's statistics on each sticky note (i.e. sticky notes would hold population, primary language, life expectancy, etc.). For even more depth, have students use one color for all similar statistics (i.e. all population data is on a pink sticky note) so that when they compare countries against each other, they can easily compare related data. Alternatively, put all statistics from one region on one color of sticky notes and then have students identify which country matches their results!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">M</span>AP PINS. Instead of the traditional pushpin-on-map dynamic, switch it up with sticky notes! Have students label a post-it note with a country, region, state, etc., and stick it to the correct area on a large classroom map. Collectively, they can label a whole continent or region with everyone's sticky notes. Use this activity with the complete <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Geography-Introduction-Complete-Unit-143667" target="_blank">Geography Introduction Unit</a> which details the five themes of geography!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">B</span>AR GRAPH REPRESENTATION. While recording classroom data for comparison in a government or economics class, have students stack their sticky notes up the wall or board to form a bar graph, ensuring that your graph will show an accurate representation since each student's sticky note is the same size. Use different color sticky notes to add additional dynamics to your data collection. For example, in a blended class, Freshman can use one color to record their favorite subject, and Sophomores can use a different color. Then, draw conclusions about each based on the data trajectory.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">S</span>HORT STUDY GUIDE. Allow your students a small reprieve from the stress of your next exam by giving them one sticky note for a cheat sheet. Better than an open book test, students will still have to study the information to find the most important bits to record on their small slip of paper.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">T</span>ASK CARDS. Have students use sticky notes to flag important information on Gallery Walks like this <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Roaring-20s-1920s-Walking-Tour-Centers-Activity-Gallery-Walk-484761" target="_blank">Roaring 20s Walking Tour</a>, where information is distributed around the room. Or, allow them to collect important information on sticky notes to organize their thoughts as they visit each walking tour stop.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<h4>
<i>Bonus Teacher Tip!<br /></i><span style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: normal;">D</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">ISCOURAGE CHEATING. This one is more of a teacher tip than a specific exercise in itself, but if you find your classroom full of wandering eyes, read quiz questions aloud and have students record their multiple choice answers on a sticky note. With only a sticky note on their empty desk, you will be able to quickly scout out anyone who is using extra resources to answer the questions!</span></h4>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrPnGgSsVQdNl7d3oBUcHwp-jqmGTsXcDrUzhOTmsiNM8L3KYaadbJHO6EVLW6uPVxjOHrSVtTiEnOtULA3KEV8aeW6jH6HTyb4zYcM5U9P1yARMUVcCxprWF4w90usRsxjnTDZfqezPNf/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+world+religions.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Ditch the complicated lessons for your next unit and replace your difficult plans with easy sticky note activities! Or, use sticky notes to replace a daily activity that you can utilize throughout the year (like the exit slip idea). Either way, let your middle school and high school students use this commonly-overlooked office supply to amplify their lessons and inspire their creativity and curiosity! #teaching #lessonplanning #lessonideas #outsidetheboxteaching" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrPnGgSsVQdNl7d3oBUcHwp-jqmGTsXcDrUzhOTmsiNM8L3KYaadbJHO6EVLW6uPVxjOHrSVtTiEnOtULA3KEV8aeW6jH6HTyb4zYcM5U9P1yARMUVcCxprWF4w90usRsxjnTDZfqezPNf/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+world+religions.png" title="Ditch the complicated lessons for your next unit and replace your difficult plans with easy sticky note activities! Or, use sticky notes to replace a daily activity that you can utilize throughout the year (like the exit slip idea). Either way, let your middle school and high school students use this commonly-overlooked office supply to amplify their lessons and inspire their creativity and curiosity! #teaching #lessonplanning #lessonideas #outsidetheboxteaching" width="425" /></a></div>
Ditch the complicated lessons for your next unit and replace your difficult plans with easy sticky note activities! Or, use sticky notes to replace a daily activity that you can utilize throughout the year (like the exit slip idea). Either way, let your middle school and high school students use this commonly-overlooked office supply to amplify their lessons and inspire their creativity and curiosity!<br />
<br />
Happy Teaching,<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />
<br />
<div class="mailmunch-forms-widget-667933">
</div>
Michele Luckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15138061226034855643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-24532258507773610372019-10-30T07:36:00.001-07:002019-10-30T07:36:29.802-07:009 Must-Read Books to Accompany Your Holocaust UnitAs with teaching all sensitive or controversial <strong>Social Studies</strong> topics, you may feel less than comfortable teaching about the <strong>Holocaust</strong>. However, teaching about <strong>World War II</strong> and the Holocaust with <strong>confidence</strong> and <strong>professionalism</strong> is critical to ensuring that your students take the topic seriously and understand the importance of the lessons they are learning. Even though you are a <strong>Social Studies teacher</strong>, perhaps even a seasoned <strong>secondary teacher</strong> with many years of <strong>experience</strong> and <strong>education</strong>, you may feel less than equipped to handle the delicacies of the Holocaust.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix4lZ3BgMFv2U37l0QbqP7qejUPntzTAr4fdwcah6WvZi2_6I1vY5iLIKGUPITPY23lSWqBRoFlGcYTH1JUjfBYIC7mJNV02J6PDh43NlkKFXG_nqca7sfOm7wfEPgFDaUPIjcwRw7DXEE/s1600/8D9991D6-3FAF-4DF8-AF6F-B603B084E677.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="As with teaching all sensitive or controversial Social Studies topics, you may feel less than comfortable teaching about the Holocaust. However, teaching about World War II and the Holocaust with confidence and professionalism is critical to ensuring that your students take the topic seriously and understand the importance of the lessons they are learning. Even though you are a Social Studies teacher, perhaps even a seasoned secondary teacher with many years of experience and education, you may feel less than equipped to handle the delicacies of the Holocaust. #Holocaust #teachingtheHolocaust #WorldHistory #WorldHistoryTeachers" border="0" data-original-height="1342" data-original-width="1600" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix4lZ3BgMFv2U37l0QbqP7qejUPntzTAr4fdwcah6WvZi2_6I1vY5iLIKGUPITPY23lSWqBRoFlGcYTH1JUjfBYIC7mJNV02J6PDh43NlkKFXG_nqca7sfOm7wfEPgFDaUPIjcwRw7DXEE/s640/8D9991D6-3FAF-4DF8-AF6F-B603B084E677.png" title="As with teaching all sensitive or controversial Social Studies topics, you may feel less than comfortable teaching about the Holocaust. However, teaching about World War II and the Holocaust with confidence and professionalism is critical to ensuring that your students take the topic seriously and understand the importance of the lessons they are learning. Even though you are a Social Studies teacher, perhaps even a seasoned secondary teacher with many years of experience and education, you may feel less than equipped to handle the delicacies of the Holocaust. #Holocaust #teachingtheHolocaust #WorldHistory #WorldHistoryTeachers" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Put frankly, this dark time period in our world’s history was a time of conviction of strongly-held beliefs, a time period which left many human beings fighting for the right to live. Many lives were lost due to these convictions. You may wonder what makes you an appropriate authority to speak on such grave historical topics.<br />
<br />
Often, when we feel poorly equipped to teach a certain lesson, especially one with this strong of a worldwide impact, we may feel that we are not the right spokesperson to broadcast the much-needed message at hand. In many cases, we may be right! As Social Studies teachers, and secondary teachers in general, we may be the proverbial mouthpiece - the amplifying microphone - to disseminate historical information, but we may not be able to speak from our personal experiences, from a persecuted person’s perspective. Using books authored by those who did face certain atrocities firsthand may feel more sincere, genuine, and accurate.<br />
<br />
In my secondary classroom, I used books of all reading levels to accompany my World History and US History lessons. My middle school and high school students deeply enjoyed folding to a comfortable cross-legged position on a carpet square, transfixed by the bright colors and impeccable rhymes of Dr. Seuss. They also fixed their attention on the words of literary texts beyond their reading level, scrutinizing with the tools we used when analyzing historical documents. Reading fiction and non-fiction books of all levels, my secondary students often held tightly to every word.<br />
<br />
Though I love teaching about the Holocaust feel adequately prepared in my lesson planning and my continued education about the subject, and believe that I have equipped myself with the knowledge and tools to share the history of this time period, doing it justice, I also understand that I am not and cannot be an authority on the Holocaust, at least not in the same plane as someone who lived through it - struggled to hide, to fight, to survive. They are the best witness to the times.<br />
<br />
It is in these instances where I realize the power of text - the importance of using the actual words of those individuals who faced marginalization and fought so hard to live another day - in helping us to communicate this content.<br />
<br />
Using books from Holocaust survivors, as well as accurate historical texts written about the times, I able to transport my students from my classroom to a concentration camp, a hidden cellar, a makeshift attic hiding place, to a world existing after the War ended. I can read true accounts of hiding, of horror, of the atrocities and crimes committed during the Holocaust, and I can introduce very real individuals behind the words we read. This not only helps my students to relate to the text in a more sincere, personal way, but also provides them an authoritarian voice on a subject that I feel only partially equipped to teach justly. Though there are many excellent books and resources to aid in teaching the Holocaust, these great books stand out as vital resources in the World History Classroom.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWIibIew1jF3g6pm5kGTbjDuyM8orJWz19QFM6NNaCAeVxhyL12kiEkvPArwMg-p6iHo4WZY5tJKzyFlkI2w-1oHO24d4Sb027h6oS9beCyyg-Ltu9E4smhJQk2Fy0dZ5MS14Eh24ksqiY/s1600/6181EEFD-8B7B-402B-9D85-2F0CD9B53408.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Using books from Holocaust survivors, as well as accurate historical texts written about the times, I able to transport my students from my classroom to a concentration camp, a hidden cellar, a makeshift attic hiding place, to a world existing after the War ended. I can read true accounts of hiding, of horror, of the atrocities and crimes committed during the Holocaust, and I can introduce very real individuals behind the words we read. This not only helps my students to relate to the text in a more sincere, personal way, but also provides them an authoritarian voice on a subject that I feel only partially equipped to teach justly. Though there are many excellent books and resources to aid in teaching the Holocaust, these great books stand out as vital resources in the World History Classroom. #Holocaustbooks #Holocaustsurvivors #WorldHistorybooks #teachingworldhistory #socialstudiesteacher" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWIibIew1jF3g6pm5kGTbjDuyM8orJWz19QFM6NNaCAeVxhyL12kiEkvPArwMg-p6iHo4WZY5tJKzyFlkI2w-1oHO24d4Sb027h6oS9beCyyg-Ltu9E4smhJQk2Fy0dZ5MS14Eh24ksqiY/s640/6181EEFD-8B7B-402B-9D85-2F0CD9B53408.png" title="Using books from Holocaust survivors, as well as accurate historical texts written about the times, I able to transport my students from my classroom to a concentration camp, a hidden cellar, a makeshift attic hiding place, to a world existing after the War ended. I can read true accounts of hiding, of horror, of the atrocities and crimes committed during the Holocaust, and I can introduce very real individuals behind the words we read. This not only helps my students to relate to the text in a more sincere, personal way, but also provides them an authoritarian voice on a subject that I feel only partially equipped to teach justly. Though there are many excellent books and resources to aid in teaching the Holocaust, these great books stand out as vital resources in the World History Classroom. #Holocaustbooks #Holocaustsurvivors #WorldHistorybooks #teachingworldhistory #socialstudiesteacher" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
<h4>
1. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Night-Elie-Wiesel/dp/0374500010/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Night+Elie+Wiesel&qid=1572400476&sr=8-1" target="_blank">Night, Elie Wiesel</a></h4>
<b><i>Bonus! Try this <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Night-by-Elie-Wiesel-Reading-Journal-Task-Card-Activity-Set-WWII-Holocaust-WW2-3107869" target="_blank">Night Reading Journal & Task Card Activity</a> to accompany the reading of Elie Wiesel’s book.</i></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4qWx8g7PcA73DdOYIOCKWV0s686LKU-pLinrmwwtp3PPuwmvhr06-qluv9bvD5EJETadsCawMlMsR9hapCwcg9u3SVJ3_04GjNiAsN39z7u6BWdXdMrOABnqoBfVO3d_5lH-aZJHrftns/s1600/7013CD24-235A-4805-9B92-481E41F0CBBB.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Though I love teaching about the Holocaust feel adequately prepared in my lesson planning and my continued education about the subject, and believe that I have equipped myself with the knowledge and tools to share the history of this time period, doing it justice, I also understand that I am not and cannot be an authority on the Holocaust, at least not in the same plane as someone who lived through it - struggled to hide, to fight, to survive. They are the best witness to the times. #primarysource #teachingwithprimarysources #teachingsurvivorstories #holocaustsurvivors #livetotell" border="0" data-original-height="1342" data-original-width="1600" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4qWx8g7PcA73DdOYIOCKWV0s686LKU-pLinrmwwtp3PPuwmvhr06-qluv9bvD5EJETadsCawMlMsR9hapCwcg9u3SVJ3_04GjNiAsN39z7u6BWdXdMrOABnqoBfVO3d_5lH-aZJHrftns/s640/7013CD24-235A-4805-9B92-481E41F0CBBB.png" title="Though I love teaching about the Holocaust feel adequately prepared in my lesson planning and my continued education about the subject, and believe that I have equipped myself with the knowledge and tools to share the history of this time period, doing it justice, I also understand that I am not and cannot be an authority on the Holocaust, at least not in the same plane as someone who lived through it - struggled to hide, to fight, to survive. They are the best witness to the times. #primarysource #teachingwithprimarysources #teachingsurvivorstories #holocaustsurvivors #livetotell" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h4>
2. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Survival-Auschwitz-Primo-Levi/dp/0684826801" target="_blank">Survival in Auschwitz, Primo Levi</a></h4>
<h4>
3. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Escape-Sobibor-Revised-Richard-Rashke/dp/1480458511" target="_blank">Escape from Sobibor, Richard Rashke</a></h4>
<h4>
4. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Hitlers-Willing-Executioners-Ordinary-Holocaust/dp/0679772685" target="_blank">Hitler’s Willing Executioners: Ordinary Germans and the Holocaust, Daniel Jonah Goldhagen </a></h4>
(This one is great for teaching how regular people could participate in the horrific acts like those of the Holocaust.)<br />
<br />
<h4>
5. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Tell-Them-We-Remember-Holocaust/dp/0316074845">Tell Them We Remember, Susan Bachrach</a></h4>
(This is a great visual tool with incredible stories!)<br />
<br />
<h4>
6. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Schindlers-List-Thomas-Keneally/dp/0671880314/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=schindler%27s+list+thomas+keneally&qid=1572444875&sr=8-1">Schindler’s List, Thomas Keneally</a></h4>
<h4>
7. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Complete-Maus-Art-Spiegelman/dp/0679406417">Maus, Art Spiegelman </a></h4>
(This book is excellent for lower level readers or readers who prefer graphic novels.)<br />
<br />
<h4>
8. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Nuremberg-Diary-G-M-Gilbert/dp/0306806614">Nuremberg Diary, G.M. Gilbert</a></h4>
<h4>
9. <a href="https://www.abebooks.com/servlet/SearchResults?isbn=9781974027026&n=100121501&cm_sp=mbc-_-ISBN-_-new">The Poisonous Mushroom, Julius Streicher</a> </h4>
(Sadly, this book is out of print but you can find it online! Great children’s book to examine the use of German propaganda!)<br />
<br />
<b><i>Bonus! This <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/German-Holocaust-Propaganda-Analysis-Google-Drive-Lesson-Activity-2269845">Google Drive activity on The Poisonous Mushroom</a> analyzes World War II propaganda.</i></b><br />
<br />
To help you plan with these books and resources, consider implementing the Holocaust Unit planning guide found in the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Holocaust-Study-Package-Zip-File-w-8-Lessons-Activities-Nazi-Germany-Genocide-651405">complete Holocaust Unit</a> on TeachersPayTeachers!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkcGVygQd0iW8sUuyVbWNN1XtvXAeBiFcPuojwdO9A-Z0QScjG8R7jxe1L8YKwBSIad0bnpf7gF6fUTz9oqpMIIeST_fjvhUXAyTErx7hKn1QeYhBhgbZ9-c2M0uVcktmo3jX_j2TNdJE_/s1600/2685B19D-2983-495B-BD20-0856B47BE3E3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="By incorporating any (or all!) of these books into your unit on the Holocaust, you’ll not only have diverse primary sources for student study, but you’ll also have an authoritarian voice to help your students experience secondhand what happened during the Holocaust. #teachinghistory #teachingWorldWarII #teachingwithauthority #teachingwithconviction #teach" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkcGVygQd0iW8sUuyVbWNN1XtvXAeBiFcPuojwdO9A-Z0QScjG8R7jxe1L8YKwBSIad0bnpf7gF6fUTz9oqpMIIeST_fjvhUXAyTErx7hKn1QeYhBhgbZ9-c2M0uVcktmo3jX_j2TNdJE_/s640/2685B19D-2983-495B-BD20-0856B47BE3E3.png" title="By incorporating any (or all!) of these books into your unit on the Holocaust, you’ll not only have diverse primary sources for student study, but you’ll also have an authoritarian voice to help your students experience secondhand what happened during the Holocaust. #teachinghistory #teachingWorldWarII #teachingwithauthority #teachingwithconviction #teach" width="425" /></a></div>
By incorporating any (or all!) of these books into your unit on the Holocaust, you’ll not only have diverse primary sources for student study, but you’ll also have an authoritarian voice to help your students experience secondhand what happened during the Holocaust.<br />
<br />
Happy Teaching!<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />
<br />
<div class="mailmunch-forms-widget-667940">
</div>
Michele Luckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15138061226034855643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-1900702312837396562019-10-14T03:00:00.000-07:002019-10-14T03:00:05.660-07:00How to Teach about Privilege in the American ClassroomTeaching about <b>privilege</b> can be a great challenge for secondary teaching in American classrooms. It is often seen as a <span style="color: red;"><i>divisive</i></span> topic, and can be considered risky in terms of job security and parental approval. And when you put the adjective <span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: white;"><span style="background-color: black;">"white"</span></span> </span>in front of privilege, it truly becomes a contested topic with all sides enraged over the idea of when, how, or even why it should or shouldn't be taught.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCOu2Y2F7ybdH-TFO_5RgG9YWuEjMzRfVBVL8TQVrfuUewKZl03Y90n2-yaDO-aYnpFKPOXUUYheKnUlaHjtGvuxAbjWv5s8j7PouVlwv6Cg_P53Xkzb16ldy-JaqDLTmxI35T_zbyyHL8/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+3+strategies+for+introducing+world+religions.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Teaching about white privilege or any privilege can be challenging for teachers in the middle or high school classroom. Read these suggestions and the step-by-step guide for introducing the important controversial subject to your students. #teaching #iteachmiddleschool #iteachhighschool #iteach678 #socialstudies #history #historyteacher #controversy #teachingcontroversy #writeprivilege #teachingwhiteprivilege #itstimetotalkracism" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCOu2Y2F7ybdH-TFO_5RgG9YWuEjMzRfVBVL8TQVrfuUewKZl03Y90n2-yaDO-aYnpFKPOXUUYheKnUlaHjtGvuxAbjWv5s8j7PouVlwv6Cg_P53Xkzb16ldy-JaqDLTmxI35T_zbyyHL8/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+3+strategies+for+introducing+world+religions.png" title="Teaching about white privilege or any privilege can be challenging for teachers in the middle or high school classroom. Read these suggestions and the step-by-step guide for introducing the important controversial subject to your students. #teaching #iteachmiddleschool #iteachhighschool #iteach678 #socialstudies #history #historyteacher #controversy #teachingcontroversy #writeprivilege #teachingwhiteprivilege #itstimetotalkracism" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
In the <i>Social Studies</i> classroom, teachers have an added load of responsibility in teaching about <u>current events</u> and <u>modern issues</u>. It is not only part of our curriculum, but it is written in the ideals of our country, making it very much our <i>content</i> to teach. Taking that point a step further, our lessons should go beyond teaching the ugliness of America's past and then dismissing the current implications of those actions. We need to address the <b>HERE</b>. The <b>NOW</b>. The <b><i>ALWAYS HAS BEEN</i></b>. We need to address it for what it is and what it always will be if we don't bring attention to bring change.<br />
<br />
Teaching about white (or any privilege) does not have to be a screaming, fist pumping debate in your classroom. It can be dissected into tiny lessons that will help students see and further identify their own privileges while working toward understanding the implications privileges have on those who do not have them. Simple, right? Not!<br />
<h3>
<u><b>Making it Simple</b></u></h3>
<ol>
<li>As with any other lesson, begin with setting up the basic understanding of the <b>vocabulary</b>. Teach the <i>meaning</i> of the word privilege. What does it mean? What is its <i>context</i>? How can that context <u>change</u>?</li>
<li>Make <b>connections</b> that your students will understand. Do not attempt to introduce a global understanding of privilege and its impact before they understand the more immediate implications. </li>
<li>Build up to the <b>larger concepts</b> and <b>implications</b>. Think back to when Social Studies was taught in elementary schools. First grade was "All about me" followed by "My family and home" and then "My community" and so on. Teach this lesson in the same format. </li>
<li>Do not allow it to become an "<b>us versus them</b>" scenario in your classroom. ALL of your students are your students. They are one. And privilege impacts us all. Teach those lessons.</li>
</ol>
<h3>
<u><b>Step by Step</b></u></h3>
<ol>
<li><i>Teach the vocabulary</i>. Define words you plan to include in your lesson. Break them down to the simplest terms and then build them back up in the lesson. Don't assume students have a thorough understanding of any of the vocabulary and start everyone at the same level. Think about this in <i>Disney</i> terms. <i>Disney</i> does not hire ready-trained professionals for many of their professional positions (eg. photographers). They hire candidates with basic skills so they can train them in picture-taking the <i>Disney</i> way. Make sure everyone is on the same page at the start and go from there. </li>
<li><i>Allow students the opportunity to make it about them first</i>. Help them to find ways they have privilege and how they have been impacted by others having privilege. Start small. Examine locations (small towns versus big cities) or transportation methods (walking to school versus access to bussing). Understanding that there is an impact is a major step that must be attained before students can step back to see how others are impacted by their own privilege.</li>
<li><i>Identify types of privilege.</i> There are many types of privilege. They range from very personal level privileges (tall versus short) to global level privileges (being born in first world versus third world countries). Create a listing of any and all , large or small, privileges students can identify.</li>
<li><i>Examine the impacts of the privileges.</i> Take each privilege and determine how it may affect each individual and others. Find both positive and negative impacts. Create a T-Chart or Venn Diagram to organize your information. This step is vital. Take the time to truly examine the privileges your class deem the most impactful.</li>
<li><i>Determine the impact of privileges on groups.</i> This is where "white privilege" comes into your lesson. Examine how systemic privileges exist and can impact large groups at a time. Discuss how systemic privilege can last (and grow and develop) over long periods of time. And predict the impacts of privilege on various groups over time based on history. </li>
</ol>
<b>But your lesson doesn't end there...</b><br />
The greatest step in this lesson is helping your students brainstorm ways to bring change. Introduce a call to action. Make it a lesson that has greater implications than a grade or a notebook page completion. Make it a lesson that lasts a lifetime for your students and all those they may encounter in their lives. <br />
<h3>
<u><b>Wrapping it Up</b></u></h3>
First of all, we must acknowledge that this is a lesson that can never be wrapped up. It is a lesson that must be taught on-going. It will come back into our lessons through teachable moments again and again, and should. We should encourage discussion and an open forum in our classrooms where all students feel they can address the privilege they see, in themselves and in others. Discussing the impact of privilege should not be an attack on anyone. It is simply the disclosure of fact that needs to be addressed so the danger of its impact does not spread.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ydwQCXtTKe7YueoY3FhH0duaFO_6k7qJWPOJAPTLbWrDJZ6b80DPwtgtkjV5wdvTytz1MKAK9pYPkgW6DHXxBTG7J_xcPAdd5prs5znd5D5699a07ipHojMpoWNfGc12ciErznpMPjtI/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+world+religions.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Teaching about white privilege or any privilege can be challenging for teachers in the middle or high school classroom. Read these suggestions and the step-by-step guide for introducing the important controversial subject to your students. #teaching #iteachmiddleschool #iteachhighschool #iteach678 #socialstudies #history #historyteacher #controversy #teachingcontroversy #writeprivilege #teachingwhiteprivilege #itstimetotalkracism" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ydwQCXtTKe7YueoY3FhH0duaFO_6k7qJWPOJAPTLbWrDJZ6b80DPwtgtkjV5wdvTytz1MKAK9pYPkgW6DHXxBTG7J_xcPAdd5prs5znd5D5699a07ipHojMpoWNfGc12ciErznpMPjtI/s400/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+world+religions.png" title="Teaching about white privilege or any privilege can be challenging for teachers in the middle or high school classroom. Read these suggestions and the step-by-step guide for introducing the important controversial subject to your students. #teaching #iteachmiddleschool #iteachhighschool #iteach678 #socialstudies #history #historyteacher #controversy #teachingcontroversy #writeprivilege #teachingwhiteprivilege #itstimetotalkracism" width="266" /></a></div>
Finally, think of privilege in the most simplistic terms... as a virus. If we see a virus spreading, do we ignore it? Do we allow it to spread? Do we not worry about its harm on the larger population? Even if that virus is in us, do we not want to get attention and help to bring an end to it so we do not infect others and spread the effects of the virus?<br />
<br />
Treat privilege as a lesson, not as a platitude to get attention on bring out a rise of emotion. Teach it as an issue in American (and World) history that has continued to plague us into modern times. Teach it as what it is - our content. And our responsibility.<br />
<br />
If you would like to teach more about white privileges and how immigrants coming to America are only seeking what we hold so precious (life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness), I'd suggest reading <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Enriques-Journey-Young-Adult-Adaptation/dp/0385743289/ref=sr_1_1?crid=20RR31LQ411T&keywords=enrique%27s+journey+young+adult&qid=1569783122&sprefix=enrique%27s+journey+%2Caps%2C154&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><u>Enrique's Journey</u></a></b> with your students. I read the Young Adult version with my students and it truly helped them to understand privilege and to take a step toward living with empathy and compassion.<br />
<br />
Also take time to <b><a href="https://buzzingwithmsb.blogspot.com/2019/10/what-happened-in-el-paso-22-days-of.html" target="_blank">link to other great lesson suggestions</a></b> for teaching about the current issues in our world that should not be controversial, but vital lessons for discussion in the secondary classroom. <br />
<br />
THIS POST IS DEDICATED TO JUAN VELAZQUEZ WHO DIED IN THE EL PASO
SHOOTING. WE MUST REMEMBER THEM ALL SO THAT WE NEVER FORGET THE DUTY WE
HAVE IN TEACHING OUR STUDENTS TO DO BETTER AND BE BETTER.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0MdfD7MYDYGHJ6kXnyr2ji7UpjGTwRHoYZ-1jcpdI9OKthuEQGpByapHUcifhsYbGLlnCMr-nHrZ3NCxHXOjSeuCM7tunJ1ygUtU0kZix7Ae_iWDSsHbqofUmvM99s22Q5ZBvg7qIThvv/s1600/JuanVelasquez.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0MdfD7MYDYGHJ6kXnyr2ji7UpjGTwRHoYZ-1jcpdI9OKthuEQGpByapHUcifhsYbGLlnCMr-nHrZ3NCxHXOjSeuCM7tunJ1ygUtU0kZix7Ae_iWDSsHbqofUmvM99s22Q5ZBvg7qIThvv/s200/JuanVelasquez.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
And while I typically sign off my posts with "Happy Teaching", I wish to change that up for this post. I feel this one has a greater call to action! #itstimetotalkracism<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Teach with purpose!</b></span><br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />
<br />
<div class="mailmunch-forms-widget-667436">
</div>
Michele Luckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15138061226034855643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-56011147782986881822019-10-07T05:30:00.000-07:002019-10-07T05:30:15.311-07:00The Truth about Teaching Controversial Topics in the Secondary ClassroomEspecially in the current climate of political correctness and divisive tactics, teaching <b>controversial topics</b> in the <b>secondary classroom</b> may seem like asking for trouble. Though it may test your patience, teaching controversial topics in the classroom actually encourages <b><i>empathy</i></b>, improves a student's ability to <b><i>make connections</i> </b>and <b><i>draw comparisons</i></b>, equips students to address <b><i>sensitive topics</i></b> outside the classroom, and validates less popular opinions held by our students, inspiring <b><i>individuality</i></b>, <b><i>creativity</i></b>, and <b><i>activism</i></b>. In both<b> middle school</b> and <b>high school </b>classrooms, our <b>curriculum </b>calls for us to address controversial topics, but often, teachers gloss over less glorious parts of <b>American </b>and <b>World History</b>. Glossing over very accurate depictions of our history does our students a great disservice. Though these issues are sensitive and controversial, it is better to equip our students to face controversial topics head on, and without bias and with grace and confidence, than to sweep them under the rug.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-xN4JiI1R7luGlvhzFEPMDcPS5gKxe458Fn-Ulv72dfKdcpBcm-tKKCNFG_Y8I62EhyphenhyphenQhyphenhyphenyq1iKYQr4IN_dPbzpjLgyyOVAVa8tF6UyfmC3qLkmoYghGei17e8m4JrLUX86HuOGvsB81A/s1600/Controversial+Topics+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Especially in the current climate of political correctness and divisive tactics, teaching controversial topics in the secondary classroom may seem like asking for trouble. Though it may test your patience, teaching controversial topics in the classroom actually encourages empathy, improves a student's ability to make connections and draw comparisons, equips students to address sensitive topics outside the classroom, and validates less popular opinions held by our students, inspiring individuality, creativity, and activism. In both middle school and high school classrooms, our curriculum calls for us to address controversial topics, but often, teachers gloss over less glorious parts of American and World History. Glossing over very accurate depictions of our history does our students a great disservice. Though these issues are sensitive and controversial, it is better to equip our students to face controversial topics head on, and without bias and with grace and confidence, than to sweep them under the rug. #controversialteaching #inclusiveclassrom #controversy #secondaryteaching #controversyforteachers #teachingcontroversy" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-xN4JiI1R7luGlvhzFEPMDcPS5gKxe458Fn-Ulv72dfKdcpBcm-tKKCNFG_Y8I62EhyphenhyphenQhyphenhyphenyq1iKYQr4IN_dPbzpjLgyyOVAVa8tF6UyfmC3qLkmoYghGei17e8m4JrLUX86HuOGvsB81A/s640/Controversial+Topics+1.png" title="Especially in the current climate of political correctness and divisive tactics, teaching controversial topics in the secondary classroom may seem like asking for trouble. Though it may test your patience, teaching controversial topics in the classroom actually encourages empathy, improves a student's ability to make connections and draw comparisons, equips students to address sensitive topics outside the classroom, and validates less popular opinions held by our students, inspiring individuality, creativity, and activism. In both middle school and high school classrooms, our curriculum calls for us to address controversial topics, but often, teachers gloss over less glorious parts of American and World History. Glossing over very accurate depictions of our history does our students a great disservice. Though these issues are sensitive and controversial, it is better to equip our students to face controversial topics head on, and without bias and with grace and confidence, than to sweep them under the rug. #controversialteaching #inclusiveclassrom #controversy #secondaryteaching #controversyforteachers #teachingcontroversy" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Pull any history book off your bookshelf. Choose a World History or US History textbook or a historical memoir. Browse for mention of a controversial topic. Better yet, turn on a local news station, open a newspaper, or click over to social media. You're not likely to come up empty. In fact, both on a national level and a worldwide level (even on a local level within our communities, towns, and cities), our history is laced with controversy. To gloss over controversial topics, or to skip them all together, not only does our students a huge disservice by not preparing them for dealing with controversy in the "real world" but also hinders our students in developing a strong educational foundation, equipped with facts and the ability to look at history without bias, without reserve, and examine, draw conclusions, and make predictions about our future. These skills are all vital both inside the classroom and out.<br />
<br />
You've probably accepted that you have to teach controversial topics. The real question is how to address controversial issues properly. How to introduce sensitive information in the classroom and best equip your students for success. How to examine the dirty parts of history, the scary historical events of our past - and you know what they say about history: those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it.<br />
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Controversial Topics in the Secondary Classroom</h4>
<br />
Global Level Controversy: Examine global level controversy in World History classrooms (and in lessons in which you can tie in world history while examining relationships and similarities).<br />
<br />
<i>Many of my students sought me out years after graduation, raving about how our <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Holocaust-Study-Package-Zip-File-w-8-Lessons-Activities-Nazi-Germany-Genocide-651405" target="_blank">Holocaust unit </a>stuck with them throughout their school days and into their everyday lives. Though teaching about the Holocaust isn't easy because it forces the students to address the atrocities of World War II, it provides ample opportunity for the class to examine their own identities, explore how they would react in a similar situation, and empathize with the victims. This unit thoroughly explores all angles of the Holocaust and even my most disinterested students usually tuned in a little more during the weeks we studied the Holocaust. </i><br />
<br />
National Level Controversy: Slightly complicated by today's political climate, examining controversy at a national level will incite some emotional responses from your passionate students, but is still high level enough to allow students the space to step outside the controversy itself for examination.<br />
<br />
Local Level Controversy: Even more sensitive is discussing controversy that happens close to home. Tensions are high, opinions are often swayed by parental influence and media coverage, and students may feel affected or personally defensive of either position.<br />
<br />
Personal Controversy: Lastly, the most personal of controversies are those that directly affect our students. The three higher level controversies may have personal ties which escalate the severity of the issue for each individual student. Students that fall into minority groups may identify with either side of the controversy, making the issue 'real' and relative to them. This may heighten feelings about the controversy.<br />
<br />
In general, exploring controversy at a very high level (i.e. globally) will be the easiest place to start. While your students may relate to the topic on some level, they're less likely to be directly offended by and/or defensive of a certain position. Even when controversy does provoke a personal emotional response or investment, we still shouldn't avoid teaching it in the classroom. Instead, it is <u>how</u> we teach controversy that is the most important.<br />
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
How to Address Controversial Topics in the Secondary Classroom</h4>
<br />
1. Teach Controversy with Confidence<br />
Though it may seem irrelevant, teaching about controversial topics with confidence and grace helps our students to understand the severity of the topic at hand, the appropriate and/or professional response to discussing controversy, and the importance of addressing issues that are difficult or sensitive. Teachers who are timid when teaching controversial topics may give students the impression that the topic is unimportant, embarrassing, or shouldn't be addressed.<br />
<br />
2. Teach from a Historical Perspective<br />
You're teaching a Social Studies class - teaching history should be default, right? Approach sensitive issues with fact, valid information, and credible sources. Don't impose your beliefs (or those of popular media outlets or celebrity figures) on your students, and allow them to analyze the factual information at hand and draw their own conclusions.<br />
<br />
3. Encourage Open Forum Discussion and Respectful Expression<br />
Most importantly, foster a safe place for students to discuss and debate without feeling judged. Ensure students are respectful of others and are not marginalizing or vilifying. Help students analyze their own opinions without privilege or bias to ensure they are looking at controversial events and issues factually and with empathy.<br />
<br />
4. Learn from the Mistakes of Others<br />
Though teaching controversial historical events can rise tensions in the classroom, presenting these historical events with a lesson, an empathetic appeal, will help students to understand not only the importance of learning this specific historical lesson, but also how to exit an uncomfortable lesson, both inside the classroom and out, with important takeaways, an appropriate call to action, and armed with the knowledge and ability to recognize when history repeats itself.<br />
<br />
5. Teach with a Validating Acceptance<br />
Also imperative to teaching controversial issues in the secondary classroom, ensure that you teach with a validating acceptance of your students' personal controversies. Take time to teach appropriate vocabulary, empower students to own their feelings and stand up for themselves, and never dismiss a student if they identify with controversies that you do not understand. Mitigate the opportunity for hate speech, dismissive attitudes, or bullying in the classroom. Set your students up for success by providing them the safe space to be themselves and address all of their identities within your four walls.<br />
<br />
<i>Try this <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/First-Day-of-School-Lesson-Plan-for-Teachers-Middle-High-School-2679877" target="_blank">First Day of School Lesson Plan</a> to start the school year with success and build an inclusive classroom community or a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/First-Day-of-School-Find-Someone-Who-Activity-Sheet-134222" target="_blank">Find Someone Who activity</a> to help studies identify allies in their class. For even better prep, browse <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/A-Lesson-Plan-for-Teachers-New-or-Old-Experienced-that-is-Guidebook-15542" target="_blank">A Lesson Plan for Teachers</a> for more strategies on creating an inclusive classroom.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE5-LRpzK5sTEPEN9h8RB8hhfrh5xuYnWYtuCmekakX6ZhnVsjYbJCvQVgLP4Kwo4JItYFZhuQRLHKsQWDdKm1jPr00S6I6CEz5TSRAHtwFnXQWayYmjog2VqHdA1uQEt3nmq2sjKe1uQF/s1600/Controversial+Topics.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Above all, don't shy away from teaching controversial topics in the secondary classroom. In fact, teaching controversy appropriately will ensure that students develop a strong, thorough foundation of historical content (without any glaring holes around all things sensitive) while also empowering them to handle controversy in their everyday lives with empathy and understanding. Our job as Social Studies teachers transcends the textbook in all situations, and we are trusted to prepare our students to be effective citizens. Teaching controversy in the classroom may not be easy, but it's a necessity to prepare our students to be respectful human beings and seekers of justice in their communities. #teaching #newteachers #teachingtechniques #teachingstrategies #controversy #teachingcontroversy #teachinglife #teachersteachthefuture" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE5-LRpzK5sTEPEN9h8RB8hhfrh5xuYnWYtuCmekakX6ZhnVsjYbJCvQVgLP4Kwo4JItYFZhuQRLHKsQWDdKm1jPr00S6I6CEz5TSRAHtwFnXQWayYmjog2VqHdA1uQEt3nmq2sjKe1uQF/s640/Controversial+Topics.png" title="Above all, don't shy away from teaching controversial topics in the secondary classroom. In fact, teaching controversy appropriately will ensure that students develop a strong, thorough foundation of historical content (without any glaring holes around all things sensitive) while also empowering them to handle controversy in their everyday lives with empathy and understanding. Our job as Social Studies teachers transcends the textbook in all situations, and we are trusted to prepare our students to be effective citizens. Teaching controversy in the classroom may not be easy, but it's a necessity to prepare our students to be respectful human beings and seekers of justice in their communities. #teaching #newteachers #teachingtechniques #teachingstrategies #controversy #teachingcontroversy #teachinglife #teachersteachthefuture" width="425" /></a></div>
Above all, don't shy away from teaching controversial topics in the secondary classroom. In fact, teaching controversy appropriately will ensure that students develop a strong, thorough foundation of historical content (without any glaring holes around all things sensitive) while also empowering them to handle controversy in their everyday lives with empathy and understanding. Our job as Social Studies teachers transcends the textbook in all situations, and we are trusted to prepare our students to be effective citizens. Teaching controversy in the classroom may not be easy, but it's a necessity to prepare our students to be respectful human beings and seekers of justice in their communities.<br />
<br />
Happy (controversial) teaching!<br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />
<br />
<div class="mailmunch-forms-widget-667940">
</div>
Michele Luckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15138061226034855643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-87431273401889530002019-09-05T06:00:00.000-07:002019-09-05T06:00:04.116-07:0015 Yoga Poses to Shed the Teacher Tension and Stretch Through Chronic Desk-Job PainExcept for you year-rounders, most of us have been in school a few weeks now. The question is - did you follow the tips found in my last blog post, <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2019/08/put-on-your-oxygen-mask-first-self-care.html" target="_blank">Put On Your Oxygen Mask First: Self-Care in the First Month of School (and the rest of the year, too!)</a>, or are you fueling your fire with the tears of your students, hanging by a thread? (Just kidding. If you are fueling with your students' tears, you should be thriving!)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNiRI2lEGDErczoJtJQBmNhylutrxXkaJnAh3eKV4kx6J9-s7r8-ATvzU3oL7VLXdjS_GJXeoc7sJ87yFFmGFdTMoZD3hDeMuqLQrJ4cJuY_iX0aJVLP2RhOxFpq-MdYhbxRn10dCAauda/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+3+strategies+for+introducing+world+religions%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Whether you're an active teacher who is constantly on her feet, moving around the room and interacting with her students, or a computer-based teacher who finds himself behind a desk for many hours a day, you may eventually discover joints that don't move as smoothly as they used to, muscles that strain after a busy day, and a brain that feels overworked and lethargic. By adding a few, quick, yoga poses to your quick between-bells breaks, you can target these areas of chronic pain and stress, and take a few minutes to replenish your batteries. #teacheryoga #yogaforteachers #teacherselfcare #selfcareforteachers #chairyoga #deskyoga #preventteacherburnout" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNiRI2lEGDErczoJtJQBmNhylutrxXkaJnAh3eKV4kx6J9-s7r8-ATvzU3oL7VLXdjS_GJXeoc7sJ87yFFmGFdTMoZD3hDeMuqLQrJ4cJuY_iX0aJVLP2RhOxFpq-MdYhbxRn10dCAauda/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+3+strategies+for+introducing+world+religions%25281%2529.png" title="Whether you're an active teacher who is constantly on her feet, moving around the room and interacting with her students, or a computer-based teacher who finds himself behind a desk for many hours a day, you may eventually discover joints that don't move as smoothly as they used to, muscles that strain after a busy day, and a brain that feels overworked and lethargic. By adding a few, quick, yoga poses to your quick between-bells breaks, you can target these areas of chronic pain and stress, and take a few minutes to replenish your batteries. #teacheryoga #yogaforteachers #teacherselfcare #selfcareforteachers #chairyoga #deskyoga #preventteacherburnout" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Though the 5 Quick and Easy Self-Care Methods were designed to break down barriers to self-care, you may think they're so easy that you don't have to give them a second thought. But burnout is real, and retirement is probably pretty far away. Getting through the days, weeks, months, and years, requires constant effort and mindful attention. Preserving your sanity should be your number one focus, because foregoing your oxygen mask will only lessen your ability to help your students succeed.<br />
<br />
The first, and perhaps the most vital, of the 5 Self-Care Methods is chair yoga. Dismiss any preconceptions you may have about yoga, chair yoga, or the Instagram models in handstands on the beach. Yoga is an ages-old practice that spans cultures, geographic locations, and religions. Yes, yoga is a type of exercise or workout, but it has the potential to be so much more!<br />
<br />
Whether you're an active teacher who is constantly on her feet, moving around the room and interacting with her students, or a computer-based teacher who finds himself behind a desk for many hours a day, you may eventually discover joints that don't move as smoothly as they used to, muscles that strain after a busy day, and a brain that feels overworked and lethargic. By adding a few, quick, yoga poses to your quick between-bells breaks, you can target these areas of chronic pain and stress, and take a few minutes to replenish your batteries.<br />
<br />
The yoga poses in this post can be done by beginners with absolutely zero yoga experience. They can also be done in your classroom without any props. Some may be done seated - your desk chair works great! Others may be standing.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWit5tn3MKWqqK9yuSX74IWLinz4f1-SmADnIJF0F6Kbwn3u-RTrESOBuFtUGTES1A4oCQfgK1NTLsBwAh0g4WdP0qucNKFhbFCU6eqTTW7TktvVt30omxTZ8T8tDeAp9cZ-2a_GuWUoDI/s1600/69650852_694180381096528_2335082425010356224_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Need burnout prevention? Try these 15 yoga poses for teachers to prevent burnout and encourage self-care! #yogaforteachers #teacheryoga #teacherburnout #burnoutisreal #newteachers #experiencedteachers" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWit5tn3MKWqqK9yuSX74IWLinz4f1-SmADnIJF0F6Kbwn3u-RTrESOBuFtUGTES1A4oCQfgK1NTLsBwAh0g4WdP0qucNKFhbFCU6eqTTW7TktvVt30omxTZ8T8tDeAp9cZ-2a_GuWUoDI/s640/69650852_694180381096528_2335082425010356224_n.jpg" title="Need burnout prevention? Try these 15 yoga poses for teachers to prevent burnout and encourage self-care! #yogaforteachers #teacheryoga #teacherburnout #burnoutisreal #newteachers #experiencedteachers" width="512" /></a></div>
<br />
<h4>
Yoga Poses for Tech Neck/Stiff Neck/Neck Pain</h4>
<h4>
In this technology age, Tech Neck is a very common complaint. Whether or not you have tech neck, staring at a computer screen can definitely strain your neck!</h4>
<br />
1. Shoulder to Ear, seated or standing<br />
Inhale to lengthen through the spine, sitting up tall. Exhale to drop your right ear toward your right shoulder. Inhale to bring head back to center. Exhale to the left. Repeat as many times as you'd like, or hold each ear-to-shoulder position for a few breaths longer.<br />
<br />
2. Neck Circles, seated or standing<br />
Beginning with small circles, drop chin toward chest and then rotate head in clockwise direction. Continue to breathe. When ready, switch direction to counterclockwise.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Yoga Poses for Low Back Pain<br />Low Back Pain is one of the most commonly diagnosed issues among adults. Improving your posture can help greatly with low back pain complaints, but even the best-postured individual can still encounter pain, especially if you're standing/sitting all day.</h4>
<br />
3. Seated Cat/Cow<br />
On inhale, pull your belly button toward your spine and round the shoulders and back, dropping the neck slightly, like an angry cat. On exhale, expand the belly and arch the upper back slightly, raising your gaze to the top of your computer, like a cow. Bonus points if you hiss and moo with the movement!<br />
<br />
4. Seated Twist<br />
Inhale to lengthen through the spine, sitting up tall. On the exhale, twist slightly to the right, keeping your hands at heart's center or on your lap and <i>not</i> using them to pull you further. Inhale to come back to center, exhale to the left side.<br />
<br />
5. Lateral Side Stretch, seated or standing<br />
Inhale to lengthen through the spine, raising arms overhead. Exhale to bend to the right, lengthening the left side waist and shortening the right. Keep your torso facing the same direction as your knees. Inhale back to upright, and exhale to the left.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Yoga Poses for Wrist Pain/Carpal Tunnel Syndrome<br />With as many grades as a teacher has to enter into the computer, it's no surprise that wrist pain is a common complaint!</h4>
<br />
6. Flex/Bend Prayer Hands, seated or standing<br />
Press palms together near heart, shifting weight into wrist and then into fingers to stretch ligaments in wrist. Flip hands down, backs of hands against each other near heart. Again, shift weight between fingers and wrist.<br />
<br />
7. Wrist Circles, seated or standing<br />
Make fists or leave hands open, rotating wrists clockwise and then counterclockwise.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Yoga Poses for Ankle Pain/Tired Feet<br />On your feet all day? Then you definitely need to massage the joints in your ankles and stretch out your feet! No, not with more walking!</h4>
<br />
8. Flex/Point Foot, seated<br />
While sitting, raise one foot off the ground. Alternate between flexing the foot (like you're standing) and pointing the toes. Repeat with the other foot.<br />
<br />
9. Ankle Circles, seated<br />
While sitting, raise one foot off the ground. Rotate the ankle joint clockwise and then counterclockwise. Repeat with the other foot.<br />
<br />
10. Tennis Ball Stretch, standing<br />
Keep a tennis ball in your desk drawer for an added foot stretch/mini-massage! Take off your shoe and place the tennis ball on the floor. Roll the tennis ball under one foot while grounding down through the other foot. Repeat on the other side.<br />
<br />
11. Rock on Heels, standing<br />
Standing tall, roll up onto your toes, then shift weight back onto your heels. Rock between toes and heels while continuing to breathe.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuiwDXA-2C_ahPiu4yhv7VUx4opI7mVc0xtksr0hazoT_sAtBj_QzoqdXYY4At0OI8JnwocfEfCSMATvf3kO2y0zK4S35HO7_Bzn-C7MQHo6sovht645DiPplEX2UqP1LdZmU_BJxlSKSo/s1600/69732282_486879982103597_8267100257049903104_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Barely making it through the school day? Just breathe! I know, easier said than done. But try these 15 yoga poses at your desk next time the stress bubbles up to the surface! #teacherbreaks #justbreathe #yogaforteachers #breathingforteachers" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="963" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuiwDXA-2C_ahPiu4yhv7VUx4opI7mVc0xtksr0hazoT_sAtBj_QzoqdXYY4At0OI8JnwocfEfCSMATvf3kO2y0zK4S35HO7_Bzn-C7MQHo6sovht645DiPplEX2UqP1LdZmU_BJxlSKSo/s640/69732282_486879982103597_8267100257049903104_n.jpg" title="Barely making it through the school day? Just breathe! I know, easier said than done. But try these 15 yoga poses at your desk next time the stress bubbles up to the surface! #teacherbreaks #justbreathe #yogaforteachers #breathingforteachers" width="384" /></a></div>
<h4>
Yoga Poses for All the Other Stuff (the exhaustion, the stress, the anxiety...)<br />What if your pain isn't physical? What if you're fighting exhaustion or stress? Don't worry, there are yoga poses to help with those, too!</h4>
<br />
12. Seated Meditation/Breathing Awareness<br />
Sit tall, with your sit bones grounded into the chair below you. Become aware of your breath, without changing the length of your inhales or exhales, but instead just noticing the movement of breath through the body. Rest your hands on your thighs or bring one hand to chest and one hand to stomach to feel the inhale and exhale. Close your eyes if you can steal a moment of quiet, and just be.<br />
<br />
13. Standing Arms Flow<br />
To help you gain awareness of your breath and slow your inhales and exhales, stand tall, grounding through your feet. Rest your arms at your sides. Inhale your arms overhead, exhale your arms back to your sides. Repeat with the breath.<br />
<br />
14. Standing Hip Circles/Hula Hoops<br />
Widen the feet a bit. Put your hands on your hips or out to a T. Soften the knees and pretend like you're hula hooping! Rotate the hips in a circle. Switch directions. Or, pretend like you're cross-country skiing by rotating the hips back and forth, moving your arms forward and backward with the motion. This one is extra great for mid-day stress relief because it usually incites a case of the giggles!<br />
<br />
<b>15. Seated Child's Pose</b><br />
<b>Child's pose is often deemed the resting pose for any yoga practice. If a practice is too challenging, too demanding, or too stressful, students are encouraged to find child's pose and reconnect with their breath. Unless you keep a mat at school or have unusually clean school floors (yuck!), you probably don't want to lay down. You can do child's pose from your chair. </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Sit back in your chair, slowly bring your upper body to meet the tops your thighs, and bring your arms toward the floor, resting them on your feet or letting them dangle. Breathe deeply, feeling the expansion through the back of your body. Think about letting the arms hang heavy and releasing any holding or tension in the neck or shoulders. </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Child's pose is a jack-of-all-trades for improving digestion, increasing flexibility, releasing head tension (headaches), awakening the nervous system, relieving fatigue or restlessness, and reducing back pain. For most of us, letting go isn't a strong suit, but regularly letting go in child's pose may be exactly what your body needs to get through the day, month, year, and until retirement!</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm768j0pyFq96729yGFvI2HhJ1C2iAxlmlOdB0m4kNVHYK6HQp7YJsTLY__6e7A6Q5W9LTx9eNgdj6BFTIiV9BOdJWU5nY-ILKFXs0bBx1vdIPuX6Pkiy3oyu9aDop5mTAP1ggFjvxJd1L/s1600/69506139_648783268964143_5820366493572923392_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Child's pose is a jack-of-all-trades for improving digestion, increasing flexibility, releasing head tension (headaches), awakening the nervous system, relieving fatigue or restlessness, and reducing back pain. For most of us, letting go isn't a strong suit, but regularly letting go in child's pose may be exactly what your body needs to get through the day, month, year, and until retirement! #childspose #yogaforteachers #chairchildspose #classroomchildspose #childsposeforteachers #teacheryoga" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm768j0pyFq96729yGFvI2HhJ1C2iAxlmlOdB0m4kNVHYK6HQp7YJsTLY__6e7A6Q5W9LTx9eNgdj6BFTIiV9BOdJWU5nY-ILKFXs0bBx1vdIPuX6Pkiy3oyu9aDop5mTAP1ggFjvxJd1L/s640/69506139_648783268964143_5820366493572923392_n.jpg" title="Child's pose is a jack-of-all-trades for improving digestion, increasing flexibility, releasing head tension (headaches), awakening the nervous system, relieving fatigue or restlessness, and reducing back pain. For most of us, letting go isn't a strong suit, but regularly letting go in child's pose may be exactly what your body needs to get through the day, month, year, and until retirement! #childspose #yogaforteachers #chairchildspose #classroomchildspose #childsposeforteachers #teacheryoga" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>This list does not claim to make any claims to specific conditions or ailments. As always, consult a doctor if you have any specific health issues or question whether you should perform these postures.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQXrEVJRgW4LpL1wzJN1cmGOzJy136TS1NH2kabut7rTEw1ToKGVca4fUeZ8lMRzY-aAhV-8ag0Z7ETRWVIo6Jq1smOW_u_nSpNz61Ty6NBH_PXmYRR07nkw_SlY8jo8sbudRTh_cI8rU/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+world+religions%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="You may not find time for all of these poses in each day, but peppering your busy day with one or two postures to target your problem areas may reduce your stress level, fatigue, and burnout! Challenge yourself to throw a pose or two in each between-bells break. Reward yourself for a clean email inbox or timely-entered grades with another posture or two or three. Relax into Child's Pose for 5 minutes on lunch. And at the end of the day, allow yourself a deep Savasana before bed. #shedteachertension #stretchitout #chronicpain #deskjobpain #teacherlife #yogasavestheday #yogaforteachers" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQXrEVJRgW4LpL1wzJN1cmGOzJy136TS1NH2kabut7rTEw1ToKGVca4fUeZ8lMRzY-aAhV-8ag0Z7ETRWVIo6Jq1smOW_u_nSpNz61Ty6NBH_PXmYRR07nkw_SlY8jo8sbudRTh_cI8rU/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+world+religions%25281%2529.png" title="You may not find time for all of these poses in each day, but peppering your busy day with one or two postures to target your problem areas may reduce your stress level, fatigue, and burnout! Challenge yourself to throw a pose or two in each between-bells break. Reward yourself for a clean email inbox or timely-entered grades with another posture or two or three. Relax into Child's Pose for 5 minutes on lunch. And at the end of the day, allow yourself a deep Savasana before bed. #shedteachertension #stretchitout #chronicpain #deskjobpain #teacherlife #yogasavestheday #yogaforteachers" width="426" /></a></div>
You may not find time for all of these poses in each day, but peppering your busy day with one or two postures to target your problem areas may reduce your stress level, fatigue, and burnout! Challenge yourself to throw a pose or two in each between-bells break. Reward yourself for a clean email inbox or timely-entered grades with another posture or two or three. Relax into Child's Pose for 5 minutes on lunch. And at the end of the day, allow yourself a deep Savasana before bed.<br />
<h4>
Happy Teaching!</h4>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />
<br />
<div class="mailmunch-forms-widget-667436">
</div>
Michele Luckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15138061226034855643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-35656301917691037842019-08-19T03:00:00.000-07:002019-08-19T03:00:02.480-07:00Put on Your Oxygen Mask First: Self-Care in the First Month of School (and the rest of the year, too!)Are your batteries dead? No, I’m not talking about your laptop that died while you were writing a lesson plan, or your phone that died between refreshes of your work email or classroom app.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvlJU65sgMIMSQ7uY5u5c2aWNeRGsQE9vz7HA3jT2mxKYVgOSql_NWNCvSsWql6H5CcRniGepdmKfYNE96oV4S4k6dFwzYE_L2q_aKGyTzMZFXm6rPIw0Mf2Nt8PPYOXRFq1boYr8oO5uC/s1600/It%2527s+always+coffee+o%2527clock..png" imageanchor="1"><img alt="Whether you’re already running on empty or anticipating the madness of the first weeks of school, recognizing the importance for self-care in the classroom should be on your radar. Teacher burnout is real and it’s rampant, especially in a day and age where standards are constantly changing, techniques and methods are being renamed, modified, and reinstated, and the bell between first period and seventh seems longer and longer with each passing day. Self-care may be the buzz word of 2019, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t relevant or important for teachers to consider. #teacherburnout #burnout #selfcare #selfcareforteachers #selfcareinclassroom #teacherpreservation" border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1600" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvlJU65sgMIMSQ7uY5u5c2aWNeRGsQE9vz7HA3jT2mxKYVgOSql_NWNCvSsWql6H5CcRniGepdmKfYNE96oV4S4k6dFwzYE_L2q_aKGyTzMZFXm6rPIw0Mf2Nt8PPYOXRFq1boYr8oO5uC/s640/It%2527s+always+coffee+o%2527clock..png" title="Whether you’re already running on empty or anticipating the madness of the first weeks of school, recognizing the importance for self-care in the classroom should be on your radar. Teacher burnout is real and it’s rampant, especially in a day and age where standards are constantly changing, techniques and methods are being renamed, modified, and reinstated, and the bell between first period and seventh seems longer and longer with each passing day. Self-care may be the buzz word of 2019, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t relevant or important for teachers to consider. #teacherburnout #burnout #selfcare #selfcareforteachers #selfcareinclassroom #teacherpreservation" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Many districts went back to school this week, or last. Some may still have a week of summer freedom before the year begins. Whether you’re already running on empty or anticipating the madness of the first weeks of school, recognizing the importance for self-care in the classroom should be on your radar. Teacher burnout is real and it’s rampant, especially in a day and age where standards are constantly changing, techniques and methods are being renamed, modified, and reinstated, and the bell between first period and seventh seems longer and longer with each passing day.<br />
<br />
Self-care may be the buzz word of 2019, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t relevant or important for teachers to consider.<br />
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
SELF-CARE MYTH #1: I can’t afford self-care.</h4>
<h4>
Self-care doesn’t have to mean expensive massages, overpriced mani-pedis, or top-shelf wine in the cute, monogrammed cup you received from a student last Christmas. </h4>
In fact, there are many ways you can bring self-care into your classroom and into your life without breaking the bank. Recharging your batteries doesn’t require a lightening cord or a micro-pin charger, but it does require a commitment to yourself and your wellbeing. How does the adage go? In case of emergency, put on your oxygen mask first before assisting others. If you haven’t taken care of yourself, how can you possibly be available to help your students?<br />
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
SELF-CARE MYTH #2: I don’t have time for self-care.</h4>
<h4>
Self-care doesn’t require huge blocks of free time, meticulous planning, or a people-free zone (<i>though people-free can be great, too</i>). </h4>
<div>
Though that secluded, relaxing cabin-in-the-woods vibe can definitely quell the stresses of everyday life, many of us live lives that demand our presence everyday. We work our full time jobs, take care of our families, clean our houses, binge our favorite TV shows, cook dinner, and sleep. (Wait, when are we supposed to be sleeping?!) We certainly don’t have time to escape reality for an extended weekend of quiet and content. Instead, we can recognize that many less extravagant self-care activities exist that demand much less of our free time.</div>
<h4>
<b><br /></b></h4>
<h4>
<b>SELF-CARE MYTH #3: Self-care is silly. I don’t need to take care of me. I do fine without.</b></h4>
<h4>
<b>Everyone needs self-care, whether they feel the pressure and stress yet or not.</b></h4>
If you’ve never felt the depths of burnout, that’s awesome! Maybe you’re a first year teacher who handles stress well, or maybe you’re even a tenured educator who separates work life from home life better than most. But the reality is that forgoing your oxygen mask will only lead to disaster. You may still be going strong, but what use is a car without an oil change and tire rotation? How does that wine taste, before it’s been fermented and meticulously aged and packaged with care? And the fragile package you send without ‘HANDLE WITH CARE’ scrawled on the side? Does it make it to the destination unscathed?<br />
<br />
In reality, teaching is hard work!<br />
<br />
Teaching is a demanding job. You are subject to many requirements and often face challenges with administration, students, parents, colleagues, the workload, technology, or changing expectations.<br />
<br />
Teaching is a tireless job. You work non-stop throughout the school year, oftentimes well into the night, grading papers and tests, reviewing student work, planning lessons, collaborating with other teachers, participating in continuing education, but at least you get summers off! <eye roll><br />
<br />
And, teaching is often a thankless job. You may feel under-appreciated, overworked, and underpaid.<br />
<br />
Being proactive with your self-care may delay that feeling of burnout, and preserve your sanity until retirement (or at least get you to summer break!).<br />
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
5 Quick & Easy Self-Care Methods for the Classroom</h4>
<div>
<i>1. Chair Yoga</i></div>
<div>
Practice a few easy, seated yoga poses between bells. Yoga can be especially great for those who have carpal tunnel, wrist problems, or a stiff neck. Stretch out those kinks while tuning out the hallway noise for 60 seconds of peace.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>2. Desk Drinks</i></div>
<div>
No, not the alcoholic kind - that’s definitely frowned upon in the classroom! But keep a few of your favorite drinks stashed in your mini fridge or your desk drawer. A perfectly-timed iced frappe, Dr. Pepper 20 oz., or flavored water can really hit the spot.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>3. Sneak-able Snacks</i></div>
<div>
Whether salty or sweet, keep your favorite indulgent snack or candy in your desk. Skip the calorie counting and savor the flavor instead. Bonus points if you can sneak bites between bells or munch quietly during a test.<br />
<br />
<i>4. Hightail it to Narnia </i><br />
You may not have a long planning period or student-free break, but even a few minutes of rejuvenation can get you through a stressful day! If you can carve out some space for a bean bag chair or ottoman to prop up your feet, you can take a few minutes at lunch to zone out the stress and get lost in the pages of whatever book tops your TBR. Just read fast so you’re not caught on a cliffhanger when lunch ends!<br />
<br />
<i>5. Ease the Environment</i><br />
Harsh, fluorescent lighting and the drowning noise of paper shuffling and sneakers scuffling are not conducive to a stress-free environment. Turn off the overhead lighting and introduce some softer lights. Consider playing classical music in the background while students work quietly.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh60A0onSIJJ2qF5AlMJnCaip6Wy9p1agptnC36phIqGHYDcNSflOhUz3DKai4YJRVR7CG6iSR0dh1DrUAYv4B2uoCNu-LYQNKQe56_Aev5MvCYNmRUZ9iXHUgTihhUWzW8TbHl3LJ2Hq2W/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+history+headline+news-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are your batteries dead? No, I’m not talking about your laptop that died while you were writing a lesson plan, or your phone that died between refreshes of your work email or classroom app. You need self-care! #selfcare #classroomselfcare #teacherselfcare #newteachers #experiencedteachers #teacherburnoutisreal #fighttheburnout" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh60A0onSIJJ2qF5AlMJnCaip6Wy9p1agptnC36phIqGHYDcNSflOhUz3DKai4YJRVR7CG6iSR0dh1DrUAYv4B2uoCNu-LYQNKQe56_Aev5MvCYNmRUZ9iXHUgTihhUWzW8TbHl3LJ2Hq2W/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+history+headline+news-1.png" title="Are your batteries dead? No, I’m not talking about your laptop that died while you were writing a lesson plan, or your phone that died between refreshes of your work email or classroom app. You need self-care! #selfcare #classroomselfcare #teacherselfcare #newteachers #experiencedteachers #teacherburnoutisreal #fighttheburnout" width="426" /></a></div>
<b>Bonus tip! Sometimes the best self-care is a day to yourself. Don’t feel guilty if you need a mental health day. Leave some sub plans and sleep in! </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Happy teaching!</b></div>
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />
<br />
<div class="mailmunch-forms-widget-667436">
</div>
Michele Luckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15138061226034855643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-55123177494153638882019-07-30T14:00:00.000-07:002019-07-30T14:00:04.562-07:00Teaching Inquiry and Primary Source Analysis at Any Grade LevelDaycare, preschool, and kindergarten teachers may be familiar with the doe-eyed look staring back at them as they present their class with new, intriguing information. Parents have likely experienced the never-ending stream of consciousness that mounts in frustration as their toddler asks a hundred and one questions and continually prods, never satisfied. Unfortunately, teachers and parents of older children may see that spark of curiosity less often. They may experience a child's intrigue as it dwindles. Sometimes, they don't even notice that the intensity of inquiry has slipped away.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ5n02RcoY2IAJyPGzJf9oTlw0FhOs385Sfvb0GHpDxsZdw5Js4xDYJMK0XqKEbv9bb4QDrLhHPlHi2qwhrUOAB9wWzFwyxq42IcNQ4qdpfytt03aTbJV4gfc1uFLRvh7Z7X9zcs4aAjGk/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+3+strategies+for+introducing+world+religions.png" imageanchor="1"><img alt="Daycare, preschool, and kindergarten teachers may be familiar with the doe-eyed look staring back at them as they present their class with new, intriguing information. Parents have likely experienced the never-ending stream of consciousness that mounts in frustration as their toddler asks a hundred and one questions and continually prods, never satisfied. Unfortunately, teachers and parents of older children may see that spark of curiosity less often. They may experience a child's intrigue as it dwindles. Sometimes, they don't even notice that the intensity of inquiry has slipped away. #teachinginquiry #criticalthinking #teachingmethods #elementaryteachers #lessonplanning" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ5n02RcoY2IAJyPGzJf9oTlw0FhOs385Sfvb0GHpDxsZdw5Js4xDYJMK0XqKEbv9bb4QDrLhHPlHi2qwhrUOAB9wWzFwyxq42IcNQ4qdpfytt03aTbJV4gfc1uFLRvh7Z7X9zcs4aAjGk/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+3+strategies+for+introducing+world+religions.png" title="Daycare, preschool, and kindergarten teachers may be familiar with the doe-eyed look staring back at them as they present their class with new, intriguing information. Parents have likely experienced the never-ending stream of consciousness that mounts in frustration as their toddler asks a hundred and one questions and continually prods, never satisfied. Unfortunately, teachers and parents of older children may see that spark of curiosity less often. They may experience a child's intrigue as it dwindles. Sometimes, they don't even notice that the intensity of inquiry has slipped away. #teachinginquiry #criticalthinking #teachingmethods #elementaryteachers #lessonplanning" width="640" /></a></div>
As adults in today's world, we are continuously busy, immersed in work or technology, and we often forget about the sense of intrigue, the amazement of discovery, the engagement that we once felt as we learned a new skill or fact. Unfortunately, our children lose this desire to inquire earlier and earlier with each passing generation. Though our common classroom challenges, like incorporating <b>common core</b>, preparing for <b>standardized testing</b>, squeezing in assemblies and school-wide events and award ceremonies, take up a lot of our class time, finding time to encourage inquiry at an early age, and throughout <b>elementary school</b> (and <b>middle school</b>... oh, and <b>high school</b>, too!) is so critical for <b>student development</b> and growth.<br />
<br />
<b>Teaching inquiry</b> and <b>primary source analysis</b> doesn't have to be disingenuous or inconsistent with the rest of your <b>lesson plans</b>. Instead, focusing on <b>content </b>while practicing the <b>skills of inquiry</b>, primary source analysis, and <b>critical thinking</b>, can be a natural way to integrate inquiry into your <b>classroom</b>, no matter the grade level.<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
</h4>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Strategies of Inquiry</h4>
Spiral questioning: Use an <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2015/09/monday-mapping-effective-questioing-101.html" target="_blank">easy-to-hard questioning format</a> to build confidence, encourage the path of inquiry, and learn foundational information that can be strengthened and expanded upon with more complex questions.<br />
<br />
Student collaboration: Encourage discussion and inquiry by <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2014/09/groups-in-interactive-classroom-how-to.html" target="_blank">pairing students together or in groups</a>, presenting them with opportunities to <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2018/06/5-strategies-for-building-classroom.html" target="_blank">experience different viewpoints</a> and perspectives and expand their innate knowledge with this change in perspectives.<br />
<br />
Open-ended questions: Use short answer (or short essay) questions to ensure deeper student processing and critical thinking.<br />
<br />
Increased student choice: Create greater engagement and deeper inquiry by providing students multiple choices to decide their method or activity of learning.<br />
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
Teacher Perk! By encouraging inquiry in the classroom, teachers <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2014/09/grading-in-interactive-classroom.html" target="_blank">spend LESS TIME grading</a> for accuracy and instead encourage students to think critically and support their opinions with evidence.</h4>
<i>Allowing a "wrong" answer in analysis and inquiry activities provides students the opportunity to answer without the fear or anxiety of getting it wrong. This opens the door for greater discussion and more inquiry, analysis, and critical thinking, and students are more likely to get to the "right" answer because they're searching for and dissecting information to support their answer.</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ97SjBbnh1hiNssv9BODq1s7jrA2LkQye8pR0AAxm3SAqL4jxoChZ44doKVMjbJyarpoA-l0DU0ANBsVsJYPg9lifxe42FOga3MNkt7YFTvvP3T19TTqq4otoX2Wp7sdCOUB5L75Y92Ys/s1600/67528956_1124540901072162_3185983706263191552_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Elementary school teachers, Explore Early America with your students while analyzing primary sources, using task cards to encourage inquiry, and facilitating group collaboration. #elementaryteachers #teachinginquiry #criticalthinking #primarysourceanalysis" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ97SjBbnh1hiNssv9BODq1s7jrA2LkQye8pR0AAxm3SAqL4jxoChZ44doKVMjbJyarpoA-l0DU0ANBsVsJYPg9lifxe42FOga3MNkt7YFTvvP3T19TTqq4otoX2Wp7sdCOUB5L75Y92Ys/s640/67528956_1124540901072162_3185983706263191552_n.jpg" title="Elementary school teachers, Explore Early America with your students while analyzing primary sources, using task cards to encourage inquiry, and facilitating group collaboration. #elementaryteachers #teachinginquiry #criticalthinking #primarysourceanalysis" width="640" /></a></div>
Elementary school teachers, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Early-American-Explorers-Primary-Source-Analysis-Inquiry-Task-Card-Activity-4674943" target="_blank">Explore Early America</a> with your students while analyzing primary sources, using task cards to encourage inquiry, and facilitating group collaboration.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCtfoKViYHuPGJiWpxF2qmZZQ6xuVZSgy5VbY_BMPjyBNFtpbvhTBN6fd2oNmnfxk-B-4WWQ49Q6AoXaf5IxfDgr-ChIlllvoRqjoqhi-PF-arzXwxy0XkkPFTZhOt_MAlC3KKE5NdNigy/s1600/67833429_871492096583698_154832557408518144_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Middle school teachers, Excavate Ancient Civilizations with your class as students explore images and analyze text to spark inquiry. #middleschoolteachers #teachinginquiry #criticalthinking #primarysourceanalysis" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCtfoKViYHuPGJiWpxF2qmZZQ6xuVZSgy5VbY_BMPjyBNFtpbvhTBN6fd2oNmnfxk-B-4WWQ49Q6AoXaf5IxfDgr-ChIlllvoRqjoqhi-PF-arzXwxy0XkkPFTZhOt_MAlC3KKE5NdNigy/s640/67833429_871492096583698_154832557408518144_n.jpg" title="Middle school teachers, Excavate Ancient Civilizations with your class as students explore images and analyze text to spark inquiry. #middleschoolteachers #teachinginquiry #criticalthinking #primarysourceanalysis" width="640" /></a></div>
Middle school teachers, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Excavating-Ancient-Civilizations-Expedition-Centers-Activity-46274" target="_blank">Excavate Ancient Civilizations</a> with your class as students explore images and analyze text to spark inquiry.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYrEpbadgIQG8qbmQwQaznqWOL0CfI-i5oNZ9C7qhRB41SzP9cTOR6q89ZTCJQDdBzJvLSLCgZ_vVnwGQ9PLIA-23iqkDlPl2FFs5yBIdqiGECIzUMoecZFdlVgqDDJtvRQF1Yr5Ry5sQN/s1600/67299364_356053245071404_2381124105056288768_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="High school teachers, Dissect WWI Propaganda in your classroom by studying and analyzing propaganda of wartime, using inquiry tools and encouraging deeper analysis. #highschoolteachers #teachinginquiry #criticalthinking #primarysourceanalysis" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYrEpbadgIQG8qbmQwQaznqWOL0CfI-i5oNZ9C7qhRB41SzP9cTOR6q89ZTCJQDdBzJvLSLCgZ_vVnwGQ9PLIA-23iqkDlPl2FFs5yBIdqiGECIzUMoecZFdlVgqDDJtvRQF1Yr5Ry5sQN/s640/67299364_356053245071404_2381124105056288768_n.jpg" title="High school teachers, Dissect WWI Propaganda in your classroom by studying and analyzing propaganda of wartime, using inquiry tools and encouraging deeper analysis. #highschoolteachers #teachinginquiry #criticalthinking #primarysourceanalysis" width="640" /></a></div>
High school teachers, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/World-War-One-Propaganda-Inquiry-Analysis-Activity-Collaborative-Lesson-WWI-4690190" target="_blank">Dissect WWI Propaganda</a> in your classroom by studying and analyzing propaganda of wartime, using inquiry tools and encouraging deeper analysis.<br />
<br />
<h4>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNpdGX7IGq2MX9iVPormtcfNrc88mbMu3PY0ax2Ee_s0IlacsiAGn963Wkp_naDOSFWZWbJ1X9cBAlG8RjabiwcyewBGhMdXjXPSIQFpI4cGsVUyUD-fyZe7uxh0QaVLCFfblT8XLd4n-V/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+world+religions.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="As adults in today's world, we are continuously busy, immersed in work or technology, and we often forget about the sense of intrigue, the amazement of discovery, the engagement that we once felt as we learned a new skill or fact. Unfortunately, our children lose this desire to inquire earlier and earlier with each passing generation. Though our common classroom challenges, like incorporating common core, preparing for standardized testing, squeezing in assemblies and school-wide events and award ceremonies, take up a lot of our class time, finding time to encourage inquiry at an early age, and throughout elementary school (and middle school... oh, and high school, too!) is so critical for student development and growth. #studentdevelopment #teachinginquiry #inquiryskills #detectiveskills #primaryandsecondary" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNpdGX7IGq2MX9iVPormtcfNrc88mbMu3PY0ax2Ee_s0IlacsiAGn963Wkp_naDOSFWZWbJ1X9cBAlG8RjabiwcyewBGhMdXjXPSIQFpI4cGsVUyUD-fyZe7uxh0QaVLCFfblT8XLd4n-V/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+world+religions.png" title="As adults in today's world, we are continuously busy, immersed in work or technology, and we often forget about the sense of intrigue, the amazement of discovery, the engagement that we once felt as we learned a new skill or fact. Unfortunately, our children lose this desire to inquire earlier and earlier with each passing generation. Though our common classroom challenges, like incorporating common core, preparing for standardized testing, squeezing in assemblies and school-wide events and award ceremonies, take up a lot of our class time, finding time to encourage inquiry at an early age, and throughout elementary school (and middle school... oh, and high school, too!) is so critical for student development and growth. #studentdevelopment #teachinginquiry #inquiryskills #detectiveskills #primaryandsecondary" width="425" /></a>Welcome your students (of all ages) to introduce their inner Sherlock Holmes and embrace their Elementary-my-dear curiosity, no matter what their age or grade level. While the child-like sense of wonder often dwindles as children grow older and face the 'real world,' teaching them to foster this interest will lead them to seek out these skills later in life, and in future classes, too.</h4>
Happy Teaching!<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />
<br />
<div class="mailmunch-forms-widget-667940">
</div>
Michele Luckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15138061226034855643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-57026880404079393292019-07-05T14:44:00.000-07:002019-07-05T14:44:01.408-07:00Creating an Interest in History in the Elementary ClassroomIn today’s technology-centered society, sparking an interest in anything that isn’t the latest app or gadget is difficult. Further, with Social Studies programs being cut around the country and History departments consistently underfunded and understaffed, many of our children are growing up without an interest in History. Cultivating an interest in History at the elementary level can inspire young students to pursue further Social Studies education, delve deeper into the history that influenced their past and present, and encourage them to broaden this pursuit beyond the classroom and into their everyday lives.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLGI97bWhVdOBs7INGQeqm6xCwkggiSmMvkeAvKnwaOZF_hUat6ibIW4_kTepwg_2bvPeCbxu0-ogYHpRf9a4s7XoqQZWJybiPGy_x6FKRB4tlHrMcueFQK0ZkcC4idS5KNoI0I0cNX4kV/s1600/20DE633A-D665-40A2-8B75-CB1CD1166AA0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="In today’s technology-centered society, sparking an interest in anything that isn’t the latest app or gadget is difficult. Further, with Social Studies programs being cut around the country and History departments consistently underfunded and understaffed, many of our children are growing up without an interest in History. Cultivating an interest in History at the elementary level can inspire young students to pursue further Social Studies education, delve deeper into the history that influenced their past and present, and encourage them to broaden this pursuit beyond the classroom and into their everyday lives. #elementaryhistory #elementaryclassroom #historyteacher" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLGI97bWhVdOBs7INGQeqm6xCwkggiSmMvkeAvKnwaOZF_hUat6ibIW4_kTepwg_2bvPeCbxu0-ogYHpRf9a4s7XoqQZWJybiPGy_x6FKRB4tlHrMcueFQK0ZkcC4idS5KNoI0I0cNX4kV/s640/20DE633A-D665-40A2-8B75-CB1CD1166AA0.png" title="In today’s technology-centered society, sparking an interest in anything that isn’t the latest app or gadget is difficult. Further, with Social Studies programs being cut around the country and History departments consistently underfunded and understaffed, many of our children are growing up without an interest in History. Cultivating an interest in History at the elementary level can inspire young students to pursue further Social Studies education, delve deeper into the history that influenced their past and present, and encourage them to broaden this pursuit beyond the classroom and into their everyday lives. #elementaryhistory #elementaryclassroom #historyteacher" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Simply implementing a few more History lessons into your elementary curriculum won’t cut it. Instead, using the right strategic lesson that address many necessary skills and standards engages students and creates an interest in History. By implementing techniques to read informational text, think historically, examine cause and effect, explore change over time, categorize, read for context and main idea, inference, and identify who, what, when, where, and why, students will be engaged in their History lesson and will be inspired to further develop their historical understanding of the world around them.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj67SgLvshBEvFI-SWRMFO_n42sdMV-louUmp_iO4R5sMnPm_2sHtD4Zvd3z0ohspixt30zM7bozJvM8Gb-busp_Rlh1NV8X2RqvhhXgJzJyee94udmVSVakqCw5d5cz8KzPUmE5hqBX4up/s1600/09BFE20D-FEBE-4DD8-AD56-D27FC23E893C.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="By implementing techniques to read informational text, think historically, examine cause and effect, explore change over time, categorize, read for context and main idea, inference, and identify who, what, when, where, and why, students will be engaged in their History lesson and will be inspired to further develop their historical understanding of the world around them. #learningstrategies #learningskills #commoncore #teachingskills" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj67SgLvshBEvFI-SWRMFO_n42sdMV-louUmp_iO4R5sMnPm_2sHtD4Zvd3z0ohspixt30zM7bozJvM8Gb-busp_Rlh1NV8X2RqvhhXgJzJyee94udmVSVakqCw5d5cz8KzPUmE5hqBX4up/s640/09BFE20D-FEBE-4DD8-AD56-D27FC23E893C.jpeg" title="By implementing techniques to read informational text, think historically, examine cause and effect, explore change over time, categorize, read for context and main idea, inference, and identify who, what, when, where, and why, students will be engaged in their History lesson and will be inspired to further develop their historical understanding of the world around them. #learningstrategies #learningskills #commoncore #teachingskills" width="640" /></a></div>
Though the art of the early-morning delivery of a meticulously-folded, black and white newsprint may be dead, people still rely on the news media for reporting of current events, upcoming activities, and important information and announcements. Whether utilizing digital news through social media, email, or other avenues, individuals need and want to know what’s happening around them. Use the History Headline News Daily Informational Readings to spark that same interest in your students.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVrr-4oYd7vEnatZWjJIBlayfdlWdjo65lxDMKL6Rjhp2p0tlqJPWOmJvSZXow96nwIAbbgNgnITS-1sVslcNCEeSAReVuqkYyIKaOFvVZ6vJ60Q6OiCV9RjnOTDxJAe6LuTWakwOkdTmK/s1600/21DE74D6-7DDE-45E2-9AA7-025E0F07F44D.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Though the art of the early-morning delivery of a meticulously-folded, black and white newsprint may be dead, people still rely on the news media for reporting of current events, upcoming activities, and important information and announcements. Whether utilizing digital news through social media, email, or other avenues, individuals need and want to know what’s happening around them. Use the History Headline News Daily Informational Readings to spark that same interest in your students. #newspaper #newsmedia #digitalnews #newsforlearning" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVrr-4oYd7vEnatZWjJIBlayfdlWdjo65lxDMKL6Rjhp2p0tlqJPWOmJvSZXow96nwIAbbgNgnITS-1sVslcNCEeSAReVuqkYyIKaOFvVZ6vJ60Q6OiCV9RjnOTDxJAe6LuTWakwOkdTmK/s640/21DE74D6-7DDE-45E2-9AA7-025E0F07F44D.jpeg" title="Though the art of the early-morning delivery of a meticulously-folded, black and white newsprint may be dead, people still rely on the news media for reporting of current events, upcoming activities, and important information and announcements. Whether utilizing digital news through social media, email, or other avenues, individuals need and want to know what’s happening around them. Use the History Headline News Daily Informational Readings to spark that same interest in your students. #newspaper #newsmedia #digitalnews #newsforlearning" width="640" /></a></div>
Why use History Headline News Daily Informational Readings to create an interest in History in your elementary classroom? These daily readings address many skills and standards to mesh with common core.<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<i>Reading informational text</i></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<i>Historical thinking</i></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<i>Cause and Effect</i></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<i>Change over time</i></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<i>Categorization</i></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<i>Reading for context</i></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<i>Reading for main idea</i></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<i>Inferencing</i></h4>
<h4>
<i><div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Identifying who, what, when, where, and why</i><br />
<br /></div>
</i></h4>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdh7ek00aB81aW-JEtzwZsa7lOXwrEwKGJIxzj-DmtIPB0D4yESrt5XB5CrITt0wi1_e1eiKRM8UhODwvaME8JExIUCvHy-6TGuu0rPOQ2DTAchH9iAKlXStJOIVN9k1fwsKFfCKUFddSW/s1600/7925015D-EFD7-4479-932D-4C475259AE06.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdh7ek00aB81aW-JEtzwZsa7lOXwrEwKGJIxzj-DmtIPB0D4yESrt5XB5CrITt0wi1_e1eiKRM8UhODwvaME8JExIUCvHy-6TGuu0rPOQ2DTAchH9iAKlXStJOIVN9k1fwsKFfCKUFddSW/s400/7925015D-EFD7-4479-932D-4C475259AE06.png" width="265" /></a></div>
Download the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/History-Headline-News-Full-Year-Long-Informational-Text-Current-Events-BUNDLE-4668519" target="_blank">FULL YEAR of History Headline News</a> at a special bundled price. Use these quick readings for daily activities, bellringers, or topic reviews. Or, try the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/History-Headline-News-Informational-Text-Social-Studies-Reading-Summer-Set-3680533" target="_blank">FREE Summer Bundle</a> set! Introduce these beneficial skills to your students by using History Headline News to create an interest in History in your elementary classroom this year!<br />
<br />
<br />
Happy Teaching!</div>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />
<br />
<div class="mailmunch-forms-widget-667940">
</div>
Michele Luckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15138061226034855643noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-63106762924262827802019-05-29T13:00:00.000-07:002019-05-29T13:00:02.554-07:00Wrapping up the School Year: End of the Year Review and Test PrepSearching for the perfect end-of-the-year wrap-up activity? A comprehensive lesson to review the content, prepare for standardized exams, study for final exams, and bring another successful school year to a close? Look no further! The perfect activity doesn't require loads of planning or preparation, and it certainly doesn't demand more than you may be willing to give during these last few weeks of school. Using a complete analysis, annotation, and timeline activity is the ideal way to bring the school year full circle.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBxrirwaLewBgjF0nwAH69tUX4SOavekjeB4SGrZaSRX3vzFMB8UabQ7G9jPmc0ow6JQi9lzvCbDnot_taEHJYi_OeyIzF5OdXI9NwJSZ6e-DF4fF-rWldinccyy-TuUugQCsDFFlLj54O/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+3+strategies+for+introducing+world+religions.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Searching for the perfect end-of-the-year wrap-up activity? A comprehensive lesson to review the content, prepare for standardized exams, study for final exams, and bring another successful school year to a close? Look no further! The perfect activity doesn't require loads of planning or preparation, and it certainly doesn't demand more than you may be willing to give during these last few weeks of school. Using a complete analysis, annotation, and timeline activity is the ideal way to bring the school year full circle. #endoftheyear #review #wrapup #endofyearlesson" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBxrirwaLewBgjF0nwAH69tUX4SOavekjeB4SGrZaSRX3vzFMB8UabQ7G9jPmc0ow6JQi9lzvCbDnot_taEHJYi_OeyIzF5OdXI9NwJSZ6e-DF4fF-rWldinccyy-TuUugQCsDFFlLj54O/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+3+strategies+for+introducing+world+religions.png" title="Searching for the perfect end-of-the-year wrap-up activity? A comprehensive lesson to review the content, prepare for standardized exams, study for final exams, and bring another successful school year to a close? Look no further! The perfect activity doesn't require loads of planning or preparation, and it certainly doesn't demand more than you may be willing to give during these last few weeks of school. Using a complete analysis, annotation, and timeline activity is the ideal way to bring the school year full circle. #endoftheyear #review #wrapup #endofyearlesson" width="640" /></a></div>
Middle school and high school students will appreciate the different aspects of this lesson, including analysis, annotation, timeline study, skills review, chronology study, and more. Not only does this activity offer 70+ topic cards, but it also has options for individual student and whole class implementation, a SPRITE organizer and key, and teaching suggestions and implementation directions. Squeezing this wrap-up activity in at the end of the year is easy and beneficial.<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Implementation Strategies</h3>
<h4>
<br />Create an Archaeological Dig</h4>
Have students dig deep into the well of knowledge they've filled over the past year. This activity will get students out of their seats and on their feet! Divide students into groups or have them work individually with these task cards and then present information to the class.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Line up through History</h4>
Have students create a human timeline with these task cards. By engaging in the lesson hands-on, students are likely to retain more information and can really embrace their event to represent and present to their peers.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Final SPRITE Analysis</h4>
In pairs or groups, have students complete the SPRITE organizer one last time. SPRITE analysis is a skill that will benefit your students for many years (and many more classes!) to come. Ingraining these skills throughout the year will prepare them for future coursework by reminding them how to analyze and compare Social, Political, Religious, Intellectual, Technological, and Economic attributes.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE3Gi9BVN1vtgG42a1uyPWx9b2qff2odNGE4E9Tlyzb8dVe3_zVK5n0589R7OxGEVNtOVIUUJqRyyPI_AFjoQplmY2iA7u4aOWuydl7e4hb1gGfCitYmRUzJ6nCAVU_mG-rdnGELBRUIey/s1600/61478771_860677790952814_4437914411885133824_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="First year teacher dreading the end-of-the-year wrap-up? Overwhelmed by the sheer volume of content you need to cover for standardized testing? Using this easy review activity, you can easily prep for standardized testing and final exams! #newteacher #firstyearteacher #endoftheyear #endofyearwrapup" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE3Gi9BVN1vtgG42a1uyPWx9b2qff2odNGE4E9Tlyzb8dVe3_zVK5n0589R7OxGEVNtOVIUUJqRyyPI_AFjoQplmY2iA7u4aOWuydl7e4hb1gGfCitYmRUzJ6nCAVU_mG-rdnGELBRUIey/s640/61478771_860677790952814_4437914411885133824_n.jpg" title="First year teacher dreading the end-of-the-year wrap-up? Overwhelmed by the sheer volume of content you need to cover for standardized testing? Using this easy review activity, you can easily prep for standardized testing and final exams! #newteacher #firstyearteacher #endoftheyear #endofyearwrapup" width="640" /></a></div>
<h4>
Missed the window for end-of-the-year planning? No worries! This activity is great as an introductory lesson for a unit, at the beginning of the year, or even as a daily bellringer throughout the year! </h4>
The <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Early-World-History-End-of-Year-Review-Analysis-Annotation-Timeline-Activity-4510443" target="_blank">Early World History End of the Year Review Timeline Activity</a> will adequately prepare your World History class for even the hardest of standardized tests or final exams! Or, browse the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Modern-World-History-End-of-Year-Review-Analysis-Annotation-Timeline-Activity-4510722" target="_blank">Modern World History End of the Year Review Analysis, Annotation & Timeline Activity</a> to use with your Modern World History students. Teaching US History? Download the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/US-History-End-of-Year-Review-Analysis-Annotation-Timeline-Activity-4510234" target="_blank">US History End of the Year Review Analysis, Annotation & Timeline Activity</a> instead!<br />
<br />
<h4>
Bonus! Pair with the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Social-Studies-Academic-Vocabulary-Graphic-Organizer-2138786" target="_blank">Social Studies Academic Vocabulary Graphic Organizer</a> for Social Studies fluency!</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNJ-hWkH56KA6Y480PDHF6cKdkwR0hZIPPgnO3Wcs1kvguxtKL7Kxuk5ptXkT2JRpUGW5NQbQETVhZv8NpTfEQsEqyPCTCF-HkYhAfWl4UIRDQv_E1FvmzC_RPKHNTBitQzB_f5_4swK-w/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+world+religions.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for a surefire activity to kick-off a new unit? Want to engage your students in a review activity to help retain knowledge? Archaeological digs and task cards can help to bridge the gap between content and retention! #knowledgecheck #teachershelpingstudents #classroomreview #ushistory #worldhistory" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNJ-hWkH56KA6Y480PDHF6cKdkwR0hZIPPgnO3Wcs1kvguxtKL7Kxuk5ptXkT2JRpUGW5NQbQETVhZv8NpTfEQsEqyPCTCF-HkYhAfWl4UIRDQv_E1FvmzC_RPKHNTBitQzB_f5_4swK-w/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+world+religions.png" title="Looking for a surefire activity to kick-off a new unit? Want to engage your students in a review activity to help retain knowledge? Archaeological digs and task cards can help to bridge the gap between content and retention! #knowledgecheck #teachershelpingstudents #classroomreview #ushistory #worldhistory" width="425" /></a></div>
The compilation of the previous year's content can seem daunting for even your most advanced students. However, using engaging techniques like human timelines, task cards, archaeological digs, and graphic organizers, you can breeze through a whole year's review with little stress! Embrace the chaos at the end of the school year with some activities to get students moving and learning.<br />
<br />
Happy teaching!<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />
<br />
<div class="mailmunch-forms-widget-667940">
</div>
Michele Luckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15138061226034855643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-70202588589294693472019-05-07T13:00:00.000-07:002019-05-07T13:00:00.793-07:005 Reasons You Should Use Scavenger Hunts to Teach Your Next Social Studies LessonIn the world of education today, there are many different <b>teaching styles</b>, <b>learning styles</b>, and the "next big thing" is always being recommended to fulfill the ever-changing needs of our <b>students</b>. Keeping up with the<b> trends in teaching</b> can be overwhelming and time-consuming. What if you were able to find a <b>resource </b>that caters to all learning styles, incorporates <b>experiential lessons</b>, provides <b>hands-on engagement</b>, and offers your students an engaging opportunity to build a lasting knowledge base?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj813sDwYcD2t4ugRTq5E-3yv2cjZbO5FJ7RS2NJ22oXIjQFrnwHpO_F4v-bRfzUJYqq6EwWTt3vyEq4mjZwStmsSdACGDFsHIJ4SdRxTlH-1f3q5hQvujb36yT3KKdR0HBQ7Uu89UFZtWh/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+3+strategies+for+introducing+world+religions%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1"><img alt="In the world of education today, there are many different teaching styles, learning styles, and the "next big thing" is always being recommended to fulfill the ever-changing needs of our students. Keeping up with the trends in teaching can be overwhelming and time-consuming. What if you were able to find a resource that caters to all learning styles, incorporates experiential lessons, provides hands-on engagement, and offers your students an engaging opportunity to build a lasting knowledge base? Read further for 5 reasons you should use Scavenger Hunts to teach Social Students lessons! #socialstudieslessons #scavengerhunts #socialstudiesfun #learnsocialstudies" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj813sDwYcD2t4ugRTq5E-3yv2cjZbO5FJ7RS2NJ22oXIjQFrnwHpO_F4v-bRfzUJYqq6EwWTt3vyEq4mjZwStmsSdACGDFsHIJ4SdRxTlH-1f3q5hQvujb36yT3KKdR0HBQ7Uu89UFZtWh/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+3+strategies+for+introducing+world+religions%25281%2529.png" title="In the world of education today, there are many different teaching styles, learning styles, and the "next big thing" is always being recommended to fulfill the ever-changing needs of our students. Keeping up with the trends in teaching can be overwhelming and time-consuming. What if you were able to find a resource that caters to all learning styles, incorporates experiential lessons, provides hands-on engagement, and offers your students an engaging opportunity to build a lasting knowledge base? Read further for 5 reasons you should use Scavenger Hunts to teach Social Students lessons! #socialstudieslessons #scavengerhunts #socialstudiesfun #learnsocialstudies" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Scavenger Hunts may make you reminiscent of Easter egg hunts circa early childhood, or remind you of the wave of geocaching events that populated the latter half of the 2000s. On the surface, you may even recognize Scavenger Hunts as a fun and engaging way to kick off the new school year or pass time before a break, but Scavenger Hunts can offer so much more to your <b>middle school</b> and <b>high school students</b> and can take your basic <b>Social Studies lesson plans</b> from "blah" to "Ta-da!" Scavenger Hunts can be modified and implemented in any lesson. Read further for 5 reasons you should use Scavenger Hunts to teach Social Students lessons!<br />
<br />
<h4>
1. Scavenger Hunts are substantial. </h4>
Do you often scour the web for ready-made lesson plans, only to find half-baked ideas that may take up about 20 minutes of your class time, leaving you to scramble to fill the remainder of the block? Do your activities teach but not test, discuss but not develop deep understanding, encourage but not engage? Scavenger Hunts are easily modifiable and can be cut down or fleshed out to fit your needs, and they're comprehensive in that they offer introductory concepts to begin a lesson and also review and check for understanding as you wrap-up.<br />
<br />
<h4>
2. Scavenger Hunts are easy to implement. </h4>
Gone are the days where you spend the whole weekend prepping for Monday's lesson. Scavenger Hunts are a simple cut and display process, and you can really modify the lesson to fit your classroom needs. Display the scavenger hunt cards around the room, read the instructions, and let your students get to work! View the <a href="https://alessonplanforteachers.blogspot.com/2016/06/how-to-do-scavenger-hunt-in-your.html" target="_blank">Scavenger Hunt How-To</a> for more tips and tricks.<br />
<br />
<h4>
3. Scavenger Hunts cater to all learning styles. </h4>
Scavenger Hunts are great in large classrooms because you can really cater to different learning styles and provide a unique learning experience for each of your students. Visual learners can view pictures and historical documents. Those that learn by reading can delve into summaries and text-based slides. And your students who need to get up from their seats and engage in the lesson will stay on task, excited about learning, and focused.<br />
<br />
<h4>
4. Scavenger Hunts encourage teamwork. </h4>
Students can pair up or join groups to cover all of the content. Assign one team to a certain center and then allow for a larger-group exchange of information at the end. Allow students to become Subject Matter Experts on one area and then trade with their peers. Performing the Scavenger Hunt in groups will encourage your students to consider different perspectives, forge bonds with classmates and work together peacefully, and work collaboratively toward a common goal. This leads to a successful and happy classroom environment!<br />
<br />
<h4>
5. There's a Scavenger Hunt for EVERYTHING! </h4>
Looking to introduce the geography of a certain country, region, or continent? Browse the geographical scavenger hunts! Searching for an engaging lesson to wrap up a holiday study or lead into a break? Choose a Holiday/Event themed scavenger hunt! Or, use Scavenger Hunts to welcome students on the first day of school or dive into a new unit! Browse the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Michele-Lucks-Social-Studies/Category/Scavenger-Hunts-38734">Scavenger Hunt category on Michele Luck's Social Students</a> for even more Scavenger Hunts!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyphenhyphenfs0YUdrNGVVC0lYMikCF-eyyoCPYwf0GXCMAefIN3P0OeLATbLoM061-JdIlQObWXXkyvrxLyTom7zWDUsXgj0ofrCgYcFrIUPMszVVLeb1_d8Ur1pjHkBjvRdNjkW2DNoqEnFpec1u/s1600/IMG_7125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Overwhelmed by all this talk of differential learning? Too many learning styles and modifications to keep them all straight? Use ready-to-implement scavenger hunts to teach your next Social Studies lesson and address al learning styles at once! #learningstyles #scavengeforknowledge #socialstudiesscavengers" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyphenhyphenfs0YUdrNGVVC0lYMikCF-eyyoCPYwf0GXCMAefIN3P0OeLATbLoM061-JdIlQObWXXkyvrxLyTom7zWDUsXgj0ofrCgYcFrIUPMszVVLeb1_d8Ur1pjHkBjvRdNjkW2DNoqEnFpec1u/s640/IMG_7125.JPG" title="Overwhelmed by all this talk of differential learning? Too many learning styles and modifications to keep them all straight? Use ready-to-implement scavenger hunts to teach your next Social Studies lesson and address al learning styles at once! #learningstyles #scavengeforknowledge #socialstudiesscavengers" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Geography Scavenger Hunts:</h4>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/North-America-Scavenger-Hunt-Task-Cards-Bundle-3-Country-Set-CCSS-Review-Fun-727167">North America Scavenger Hunt Bundle</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/European-Countries-Scavenger-Hunt-Task-Card-Game-Sets-BUNDLE-5-Sets-1-Price-545395">European Countries Scavenger Hunt Bundle</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Native-Americans-Settlement-in-North-America-Task-Cards-or-Scavenger-Hunt-1082396" target="_blank">Native American Settlement in North America Scavenger Hunt</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Explorers-to-America-and-New-World-Task-Cards-or-Scavenger-Hunt-1082890" target="_blank">Explorers to America and New World Scavenger Hunt</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/American-Colonies-Task-Cards-or-Scavenger-Hunt-2187814" target="_blank">American Colonies Scavenger Hunt</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/China-Scavenger-Hunt-Task-Card-Activity-Great-Game-for-Review-or-End-of-Year-217285" target="_blank">China Scavenger Hunt </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/India-Scavenger-Hunt-Game-Card-Set-or-Archeological-Dig-FUN-Task-Cards-698948" target="_blank">India Scavenger Hunt </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Japan-Scavenger-Hunt-Task-Cards-Game-for-Review-Geography-Facts-More-535485" target="_blank">Japan Scavenger Hunt</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Holiday/Event Scavenger Hunts:</h4>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Presidents-Scavenger-Hunt-Presidents-Day-Review-540214" target="_blank">Presidents Scavenger Hunt for President's Day</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mardi-Gras-New-Orleans-Scavenger-Hunt-Task-Cards-or-Walking-Tour-Activity-1038319" target="_blank">New Orleans Scavenger Hunt for Mardi Gras</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Martin-Luther-King-Jr-Scavenger-Hunt-Task-Card-or-Walking-Tour-Activity-MLK-Day-1029958" target="_blank">Martin Luther King Jr. Scavenger Hunt for MLK Day</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Other Great Scavenger Hunts:</h4>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Key-to-the-World-Scavenger-Hunt-of-Fun-Geography-Facts-Task-Cards-1156378" target="_blank">Key to the World Scavenger Hunt </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/A-Totally-Editable-First-Days-of-School-Classroom-Scavenger-Hunt-3992099" target="_blank">A Totally Editable First Days of School Classroom Scavenger Hunt </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
For a seamless unit plan, use the continent bundles for <br />multiple Scavenger Hunts at a discounted price! </h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggTBMV40zxw-3WDN6DtA6RfSoOWkuPPQ3k3k6PUZ4a6moBLd9ApJUHOYgocTKERqFVY7Osn19KRvn3fEizOK66eQc4jv_jfBOeBFqwAV-0wBzM7RzWlHun15JLO7jit8PsjHpcuMcwv4qD/s1600/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+world+religions%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Did you procrastinate this upcoming week's lesson plans? Stuck on the same boring activities, and frustrated with students snoozing during your Social Studies lecture? Get students on their feet with these Social Studies lesson plans! Students are sure to develop an interest in the content at hand and engage in this experiential lesson! #experientiallearning #scavengerhunts #scavengerhuntsarefun" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggTBMV40zxw-3WDN6DtA6RfSoOWkuPPQ3k3k6PUZ4a6moBLd9ApJUHOYgocTKERqFVY7Osn19KRvn3fEizOK66eQc4jv_jfBOeBFqwAV-0wBzM7RzWlHun15JLO7jit8PsjHpcuMcwv4qD/s640/Copy+of+Copy+of+Copy+of+world+religions%25281%2529.png" title="Did you procrastinate this upcoming week's lesson plans? Stuck on the same boring activities, and frustrated with students snoozing during your Social Studies lecture? Get students on their feet with these Social Studies lesson plans! Students are sure to develop an interest in the content at hand and engage in this experiential lesson! #experientiallearning #scavengerhunts #scavengerhuntsarefun" width="426" /></a></div>
Your students learn leaps and bounds faster when they are able to engage one-on-one with the content you're teaching. Push the desks to the side, encourage your students to get on their feet, and let them explore hands-on. They're more likely to learn quicker and retain more if they're engaged in an exciting, experiential lesson! Try a Scavenger Hunt for your next big lesson.<br />
<br />
<br />
Happy Teaching!<br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />
<br />
<div class="mailmunch-forms-widget-667940">
</div>
Michele Luckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15138061226034855643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-13935473065982932112019-04-22T09:00:00.000-07:002019-04-22T09:00:09.669-07:00Traces of Ancient Egypt: Thoughts from an Egyptologist Turned Kids' Writer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>I</b></span>nstead of posting this week on a new strategy or resource for teaching in the Social Studies classroom, I have invited <b>Malayna Evans</b> to write a guest post about teaching <i>Ancient Egypt</i> to middle school students. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi88TA2rDRMHvgjqL8q0T9u9Yog0Ivtg2IKDfjEnZwqEpC-iIfsf0HgEq3OMc89MuHbvPmRt217E6bkYNj7GvaPiSBe4eVWPEiSgrVfGUBSqfcBZtP1x_KhtisGpf-auJwNQwyjFZxZdBsC/s1600/Guest+Post+Malayna+Evans.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Malayna Evans is releasing her book, Jagger Jones and the Mummy's Ankh, in May and she is guest blogging on A Lesson Plan for Teachers on #teaching about Ancient Egypt in the #middleschool classroom. I know students will love her #3." border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi88TA2rDRMHvgjqL8q0T9u9Yog0Ivtg2IKDfjEnZwqEpC-iIfsf0HgEq3OMc89MuHbvPmRt217E6bkYNj7GvaPiSBe4eVWPEiSgrVfGUBSqfcBZtP1x_KhtisGpf-auJwNQwyjFZxZdBsC/s640/Guest+Post+Malayna+Evans.png" title="Malayna Evans is releasing her book, Jagger Jones and the Mummy's Ankh, in May and she is guest blogging on A Lesson Plan for Teachers on #teaching about Ancient Egypt in the #middleschool classroom. I know students will love her #3." width="640" /></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<style><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
&lt;!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"MS 明朝";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:1;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:0 0 0 0 0 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
--&gt;&nbsp;
<</span></style><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Malayna Evans</b> was raised in the mountains of
Utah and spent her childhood climbing, skiing, reading Sci-Fi, and finding
trouble. Many years later, she earned her Ph.D. in ancient Egyptian history
from the University of Chicago. She's used her education to craft a time-travel
series set in ancient Egypt. Book one, <i>Jagger
Jones and the Mummy's Ankh</i>, is out in May of 2019. She enjoys
visiting classrooms to share her passion for ancient Egypt, travel, and
coffee. Malayna lives in Oak
Park, Il, with her two kids, a rescue dog, and a hamster.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Here are her thoughts!</b> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<style><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
&lt;!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"MS 明朝";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:1;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:0 0 0 0 0 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
--&gt;&nbsp;
</span></span></style><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With the upcoming release of my middle grade debut novel, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Jagger-Jones-Mummys-Malayna-Evans/dp/194867162X/"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Jagger Jones and the Mummy’s Ankh</i></a>,
I’ve been busy talking to kids about ancient Egypt. I start like this. “Imagine
you lived over 3,000 years ago in ancient Egyptian. How would your life be
different?” </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kids point out that they wouldn’t have an iPhone or Nikes or
slime. Girls wonder if they’d have gone to school. (No, nor would most boys.)
Some wonder if they’d have worshiped different gods, or ended up as mummies,
or if they’d fit in or stand out.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDU6uHNUBBM9Y0JwgFEgSo9zm91fp4uBo1tD4-b_H44GIwJgVtZTi5x1J30yQU_wve5ICe9-uPkgSsoTBUXOv-_sYbiWUpRsTV3GTSW56TyHD2hKT_Qdc0tYqfVMitnZVU9tVpJFELiDx8/s1600/egypt+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDU6uHNUBBM9Y0JwgFEgSo9zm91fp4uBo1tD4-b_H44GIwJgVtZTi5x1J30yQU_wve5ICe9-uPkgSsoTBUXOv-_sYbiWUpRsTV3GTSW56TyHD2hKT_Qdc0tYqfVMitnZVU9tVpJFELiDx8/s400/egypt+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kids are full of smart guesses and clever questions. What surprises
many are the modern objects and practices we inherited from ancient Egypt. I’ve
found that talking about how this fantastical culture is still with us is a
great way to engage kids.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You want to try it? Great. Here are just three things to
highlight.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">1. They gave us our system
of writing</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The ancient Egyptian were the first to marry written signs
to phonetic values, starting around 3,000 BC. With thousands of signs, the
language cycled through five stages and had a longer life span than any other
language. It was lost until 1799, when scholars used the Rosetta Stone to crack
the code--it had the same decree written in three texts: hieroglyphs, demotic,
and Greek. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It’s not only the alphabet we can trace back to ancient
Egypt, but also writing instruments. Egyptians took the leap from carving words
into stone and clay tablets to writing on papyrus with reed pens early in
Egyptian history. This spread to the Mediterranean and West Asia during the
first millennium BC, when papyrus became a valued export. Eventually, Europe started
using parchment and China invented paper around 100 BC, using a technique that
we still use today.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5mcaDytx0jCPGKWxX8SlUAexf8GkgdyafkOjcboYzEHYh1Wo6FHGS8yLtVR13T_l_TDnPJSrD3cO42_S97c92Z7BLKB6FdHd_dlca6SJe5eNZ7aYfBZ2OLdSewhXn2bkLyDaXG6j2Wr8W/s1600/Egypt+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5mcaDytx0jCPGKWxX8SlUAexf8GkgdyafkOjcboYzEHYh1Wo6FHGS8yLtVR13T_l_TDnPJSrD3cO42_S97c92Z7BLKB6FdHd_dlca6SJe5eNZ7aYfBZ2OLdSewhXn2bkLyDaXG6j2Wr8W/s400/Egypt+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">2. They established
the systems we use to mark time</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kids are more surprised to learn that the Egyptians invented
our calendar.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Okay, it was a little different. It was split into three
seasons and twelve months, each made up of three ten-day-long weeks. If you do
the math, you’ll see that only equates to 360 days, which meant the calendar slowly
shifted out of synch with the irrigation cycle. So they tacked five extra days
onto it--birthdays of the gods. In 30 BC, the Romans tweaked this calendar,
adding an extra day every fourth year, to give us the calendar we use today. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ancient Egyptians were also the first to measure time using
both water clocks and sun/shadow clocks.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">3. They were very
fashion forward</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kids get a kick out of learning that Egyptians were serious
fashionistas. They invented loads of items designed to beautify that are still
with us today.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Wigs, for example, were commonly worn by men and women, as
was make-up. They made lipstick and blush from clay, eyeliner and eye shadow
from fat, and their nail polish and hair color was a form of henna. They used
toothpaste, toothbrushes, and breath mints. And yes, their toothpaste really
did include mint. Their breath wasn’t the only thing that smelled good: they
made perfume from aromatic woods, incense and animal fats, sometimes using it
in wax form so it would melt throughout the day, leaving the wearer smelling
fresh and yummy. Oh, and their clothes and jewelry were to die for. They even
had high heels!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8KC3v0jQRp6sgZ2UzOfnAq_f_tc9B2vmlXurad_Rp06A4J607Rh6_8o-y_mryNCB5BYBhdP1aKok8076MjwNG9DBNKKh4dTWKM0ya-DR33jwlPsQ7_fG372EzN347qo2WhyaC-_Gib3qV/s1600/egypt+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1036" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8KC3v0jQRp6sgZ2UzOfnAq_f_tc9B2vmlXurad_Rp06A4J607Rh6_8o-y_mryNCB5BYBhdP1aKok8076MjwNG9DBNKKh4dTWKM0ya-DR33jwlPsQ7_fG372EzN347qo2WhyaC-_Gib3qV/s200/egypt+6.jpg" width="129" /></a>I hope these starter ideas are helpful. One of the most
rewarding things about using my Ph.D. in ancient Egyptian history to write a
middle grade book was invisibly weaving aspects of the history kids probably
don’t already know about into the adventure. Well, that and the mummies!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><style><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
&lt;!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"MS 明朝";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:"MS 明朝";
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
a:link, span.MsoHyperlink
{mso-style-priority:99;
color:blue;
mso-themecolor:hyperlink;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}
a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed
{mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
color:purple;
mso-themecolor:followedhyperlink;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
--&gt;
</span></span></style><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Find out more about Malayna through the links below. </span></span></b><br />
<div class="yiv9383428937MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
Website: <a href="http://malaynaevans.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" shape="rect" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">http://malaynaevans.com</a></div>
<div class="yiv9383428937MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/Malayna" rel="noopener noreferrer" shape="rect" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/Malayna</a>
</div>
<div class="yiv9383428937MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
IG: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/malaynaevans/" rel="noopener noreferrer" shape="rect" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/malaynaevans/</a>
</div>
<div class="yiv9383428937MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
GR: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17571369.Malayna_Evans" rel="noopener noreferrer" shape="rect" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">https://www.goodreads.com/autho/show/17571369.Malayna_Evans</a>
</div>
<div class="yiv9383428937MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
Amazon:
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Jagger-Jones-Mummys-Malayna-Evans/dp/194867162X/" rel="noopener noreferrer" shape="rect" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">https://www.amazon.com/Jagger-Jones-Mummys-Malayna-Evans/dp/194867162X/</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAnYxot2wCEpGHKbKjjrQF_zAeebBSG2be1u7q7iiuh0T4LWmScXGNQwAdqQPsU092KtSLOH2ltwi3xp9_X2J0n6GnjO5osuFx6RBbjyDbZFwor5B72JhDjl6zy6lGf7gpVxtDMh6UTfsq/s1600/ancient+egypt.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Malayna Evans is releasing her book, Jagger Jones and the Mummy's Ankh, in May and she is guest blogging on A Lesson Plan for Teachers on #teaching about Ancient Egypt in the #middleschool classroom. I know students will love her #3." border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAnYxot2wCEpGHKbKjjrQF_zAeebBSG2be1u7q7iiuh0T4LWmScXGNQwAdqQPsU092KtSLOH2ltwi3xp9_X2J0n6GnjO5osuFx6RBbjyDbZFwor5B72JhDjl6zy6lGf7gpVxtDMh6UTfsq/s320/ancient+egypt.png" title="Malayna Evans is releasing her book, Jagger Jones and the Mummy's Ankh, in May and she is guest blogging on A Lesson Plan for Teachers on #teaching about Ancient Egypt in the #middleschool classroom. I know students will love her #3." width="212" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> <b>And if you'd like classroom-ready resources to supplement those from Malayna, take a look at my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Ancient-Egypt-COMPLETE-UNIT-Plans-wActivities-on-Ancient-Egyptian-Civilization-380089" target="_blank">Complete Ancient Egypt Unit</a> with interactive resources to keep students engaged and excited about learning history.</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Happy Teaching!</span><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />Michele Luckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15138061226034855643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-91680317028094216672019-03-27T14:00:00.000-07:002019-03-27T14:00:07.853-07:00How to Introduce the Asian Continent in an Engaging Way"Class, meet Asia." Well, that was easy, wasn't it? But introducing your students to the Asian continent requires a bit more than a simple introduction. In fact, easing into a unit on Asia can be overwhelming as students may have trouble relating to those on a completely different continent. But it doesn't have to be a dreaded transition! Introducing the Asian continent in an engaging way will spark students to seek knowledge, approach the lessons with curiosity, and begin to draw conclusions about the continent all while skipping over that overwhelmed resistance to learn new things.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSeN3nevGAZu3wwzSKRweNVmb3EdGFGDtQPjPFt8KZKZLbbmjZf5xQQMN4F6hZHcX15OjNyeyQYpAspjYeZm47JOkA6iIN4QC53yWl2IRdi8C-lwdmeqeQ-mlfJQsJ-D6I2MMo5h9vsbSH/s1600/AF691109-0402-421B-8D63-81C474BF718E.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt=""Class, meet Asia." Well, that was easy, wasn't it? But introducing your students to the Asian continent requires a bit more than a simple introduction. In fact, easing into a unit on Asia can be overwhelming as students may have trouble relating to those on a completely different continent. But it doesn't have to be a dreaded transition! Introducing the Asian continent in an engaging way will spark students to seek knowledge, approach the lessons with curiosity, and begin to draw conclusions about the continent all while skipping over that overwhelmed resistance to learn new things. #asia #lessonplanning #teachinghighschool #teachingmiddleschool #teachaboutasia #learnaboutasia" border="0" data-original-height="1285" data-original-width="1563" height="526" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSeN3nevGAZu3wwzSKRweNVmb3EdGFGDtQPjPFt8KZKZLbbmjZf5xQQMN4F6hZHcX15OjNyeyQYpAspjYeZm47JOkA6iIN4QC53yWl2IRdi8C-lwdmeqeQ-mlfJQsJ-D6I2MMo5h9vsbSH/s640/AF691109-0402-421B-8D63-81C474BF718E.jpeg" title=""Class, meet Asia." Well, that was easy, wasn't it? But introducing your students to the Asian continent requires a bit more than a simple introduction. In fact, easing into a unit on Asia can be overwhelming as students may have trouble relating to those on a completely different continent. But it doesn't have to be a dreaded transition! Introducing the Asian continent in an engaging way will spark students to seek knowledge, approach the lessons with curiosity, and begin to draw conclusions about the continent all while skipping over that overwhelmed resistance to learn new things. #asia #lessonplanning #teachinghighschool #teachingmiddleschool #teachaboutasia #learnaboutasia" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
There are many resources on the wide-reaching world wide web for teaching about Asia, but your middle school and high school students may disengage from lessons that are boring, repetitive, lacking in creativity, and catering to only one learning style. Instead, using engaging walking tours like this <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Asia-Walking-Tour-on-History-Culture-Physical-Geography-Economy-993631" target="_blank">Asia Walking Tour</a> will act as a quick catalyst to encourage learning. By integrating this walking tour, along with these other Asia-centered lesson plans, into your unit plans, your students can broaden their existing knowledge and develop a deeper interest in Asia.<br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Stroll Around Asia (well, your classroom): Engage students with this interesting <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Asia-Walking-Tour-on-History-Culture-Physical-Geography-Economy-993631" target="_blank">Asia Walking Tour</a> which requires groups of students to walk around the room and interact with different cards about Asia, collecting information to compare and contrast, learn basic demographic information, delve into cultural, social, and political descriptions, and more.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinxIpQKaPp3hQOuQhFvYMpMGsjJSVfs508SMvdaUp04oI6zR_5-eE3rrtm4L5esOB2LRfFN5jkOWjhk51ywkebKcCgwXqZ9WO65CE6Ki631jlBfzB2VoS8oggn77C-k8hqUkpYopEk0Asg/s1600/DEF17FCA-3BE3-4668-9108-0B04FD7EA09E.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Overwhelmed about teaching a new unit? Stressed about planning long, drawn-out lessons? Fear not! Using ready-made lesson plans that are engaging and interesting for your students will ease your workload and provide the results you want to see in your classroom! #teachingmadeeasy #teachingaboutasia #learningaboutasia #newteacher #howtoteach" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinxIpQKaPp3hQOuQhFvYMpMGsjJSVfs508SMvdaUp04oI6zR_5-eE3rrtm4L5esOB2LRfFN5jkOWjhk51ywkebKcCgwXqZ9WO65CE6Ki631jlBfzB2VoS8oggn77C-k8hqUkpYopEk0Asg/s640/DEF17FCA-3BE3-4668-9108-0B04FD7EA09E.jpeg" title="Overwhelmed about teaching a new unit? Stressed about planning long, drawn-out lessons? Fear not! Using ready-made lesson plans that are engaging and interesting for your students will ease your workload and provide the results you want to see in your classroom! #teachingmadeeasy #teachingaboutasia #learningaboutasia #newteacher #howtoteach" width="640" /></a></h3>
<div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
</div>
Once you've grazed the surface, you can encourage deeper learning by integrating these other Asia activities into your lesson plans. <br />
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
Map it Out with the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Asia-Geography-Introduction-Atlas-Activity-166438" target="_blank">Asia Geography Introduction Atlas Activity</a> or the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mapping-the-New-Asian-Empires-Activity-for-World-History-161884" target="_blank">Mapping the Asian Empires Activity</a></h4>
<h4>
Dig into the Chinese Dynasties with the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Chinese-Dynasties-Shang-thru-Han-wConfucius-and-Silk-Road-Interactive-Notes-48785" target="_blank">Chinese Dynasties Interactive Lecture</a>, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Chinese-Han-Dynasty-Silk-Road-Activity-437040" target="_blank">Chinese Han Dynasty & Silk Road Activity</a>, or a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Chinese-Dynasties-Archeological-Dig-Activity-World-History-China-437057" target="_blank">Chinese Dynasties Archaeological Dig</a></h4>
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
Analyze Imperialism with the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Imperialism-of-Africa-4-Thought-Organizer-Reading-Guide-Lesson-Materials-30708" target="_blank">Imperialism 4-Thought Organizer and Primary Source Analysis Activity</a> or <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Age-of-Imperialism-Guided-Notes-Student-Handouts-211590" target="_blank">Age of Imperialism Guided Notes</a> </h4>
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
Do it all with the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Geography-of-Asia-COMPLETE-UNIT-Physical-Human-Geo-CCSS-993756" target="_blank">Complete Unit on Asia</a>! </h4>
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
For other activities to build your unit on the Asian Continent, check out more than 20 resources on Asia <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Michele-Lucks-Social-Studies/Search:asia" target="_blank">here</a>! </h4>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQdf9gD7pzOfGLTo7AaPudKUOahyphenhyphenDrJb8aET0xmClMjvC9I-b-d5rW65BjCuvZ_UKKJGqi5vmIahCCW_DMr48Y7fjkPUjE89uLywV-zSzsbxLhR3_cD3YEa1hgoqQKgN1DyS78SSYPC9Td/s1600/0821762F-DF49-4C93-A02D-09F73E620D0D.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="At this point in the year, your students are likely counting down the days to summer vacation. You may be inclined to ease up on the content and let students coast through to standardized testing. Don't forget your responsibility to prepare your students for more than the tests! Prepare them for life, prepare them for college, prepare them for further education. But even more importantly, prepare them to work consistently toward a strong knowledge base! Be the teacher that pushes them just a bit further, that encourages them to work another day, that instills a love for learning so great, they're unable to put their desire for knowledge to bed. #encouragelearning #teacheveryday #learneveryday #alwayslearning #teacherexpectations" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQdf9gD7pzOfGLTo7AaPudKUOahyphenhyphenDrJb8aET0xmClMjvC9I-b-d5rW65BjCuvZ_UKKJGqi5vmIahCCW_DMr48Y7fjkPUjE89uLywV-zSzsbxLhR3_cD3YEa1hgoqQKgN1DyS78SSYPC9Td/s640/0821762F-DF49-4C93-A02D-09F73E620D0D.png" title="At this point in the year, your students are likely counting down the days to summer vacation. You may be inclined to ease up on the content and let students coast through to standardized testing. Don't forget your responsibility to prepare your students for more than the tests! Prepare them for life, prepare them for college, prepare them for further education. But even more importantly, prepare them to work consistently toward a strong knowledge base! Be the teacher that pushes them just a bit further, that encourages them to work another day, that instills a love for learning so great, they're unable to put their desire for knowledge to bed. #encouragelearning #teacheveryday #learneveryday #alwayslearning #teacherexpectations" width="426" /></a></div>
Building a strong, engaging unit on Asia doesn't have to be difficult. In fact, it can be exciting for students and can provide a firm foundation for learning more about the continent. Using these existing resources limits your planning time, and these activities are sure to fit into any unit on Asia!<br />
<br />
Happy Teaching! <br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" />
<br />
<div class="mailmunch-forms-widget-667933">
</div>
Michele Luckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15138061226034855643noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2436655704554112462.post-60204645408142820422019-03-13T11:00:00.000-07:002019-03-13T11:00:02.247-07:00Tired of Playing Catch-up in the Classroom? Here’s How to Fix It!Are you <b>tired of playing catch-up</b> in the <b>classroom</b>? Scrambling to <b>plan </b>and <b>prep</b>, <b>grade papers</b>, and always racing against the clock? It doesn’t have to be that way! Luckily, if you’re always playing catch-up in the classroom, there’s an easy way to fix it. By<b> working ahead</b> instead of staying behind, planning and <b>prepping over the summer break</b> to lay a strong foundation for the<b> start of the school year</b>, and using readily-available <b>tips and techniques</b> to make <b>lesson planning</b>, <b>grading</b>, and <b>teaching </b>easier, you can find yourself ahead of the game before the next break!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8gdEugZjGovqKkmkTODGWLjgG_po0XNGhmc2hFpaGqP0MpTEy-bYaJgKkeeAuGgRQUQq7gAOZfQPd1o737oxfvOgHb9OnSMP0bYvol5aIXmWGdcwN6srqGOqu8njK8Hpzy4NkjyB5t-xr/s1600/563E912B-3973-4A8C-9738-35AA99E07AC0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you tired of playing catch-up in the classroom? Scrambling to plan and prep, grade papers, and always racing against the clock? It doesn’t have to be that way! Luckily, if you’re always playing catch-up in the classroom, there’s an easy way to fix it. By working ahead instead of staying behind, planning and prepping over the summer break to lay a strong foundation for the start of the school year, and using readily-available tips and techniques to make lesson planning, grading, and teaching easier, you can find yourself ahead of the game before the next break! #lessonplanning #classroommanagement #whyiteach" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8gdEugZjGovqKkmkTODGWLjgG_po0XNGhmc2hFpaGqP0MpTEy-bYaJgKkeeAuGgRQUQq7gAOZfQPd1o737oxfvOgHb9OnSMP0bYvol5aIXmWGdcwN6srqGOqu8njK8Hpzy4NkjyB5t-xr/s1600/563E912B-3973-4A8C-9738-35AA99E07AC0.png" title="Are you tired of playing catch-up in the classroom? Scrambling to plan and prep, grade papers, and always racing against the clock? It doesn’t have to be that way! Luckily, if you’re always playing catch-up in the classroom, there’s an easy way to fix it. By working ahead instead of staying behind, planning and prepping over the summer break to lay a strong foundation for the start of the school year, and using readily-available tips and techniques to make lesson planning, grading, and teaching easier, you can find yourself ahead of the game before the next break! #lessonplanning #classroommanagement #whyiteach" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The most effective teachers don’t try to recreate the wheel. Instead, they use resources that are easily-accessed, easy-to-implement, and easy on the budget! Luckily, there are a few resources and techniques that will help you finally put the game of catch-up to bed. Implementing some or all of these fixes will help you to not only find more time in your hectic school day, but also lessen your stress level! (And in today’s school environment, don’t we all need a little stress relief?!)<br />
<h4>
<br /></h4>
<h4>
How do you get started? Well, building a solid foundation is the best way to kick off the school year right. By effectively planning your units, you can ensure that you’re meeting all content standards, maximizing student understanding, and making your job easier!</h4>
<br />
<b>Organized Curriculum Mapping</b>: This <u>(FREE!)</u> <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Curriculum-Calendar-or-Map-Template-134816" target="_blank">Curriculum Calendar or Map Template</a> will help you map or organize your unit plans with ease. No longer will you look down to find your desk littered with lesson plans and no longer will you struggle to properly format your weekly/monthly/unit-long plans. Remove the guesswork with the Curriculum Calendar.<br />
<br />
<b>Seamless Lesson Planning</b>: Use these <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Lesson-Unit-Plan-Google-Drive-Templates-for-Middle-or-High-School-2389923" target="_blank">Google Drive templates</a> to lesson plan and unit plan! Design online and print as needed. You can include standards, objectives, program of studies, daily activities, bellringers, exit slips, modifications, and more! Adaptable for a 15 day unit plan and great for students who need to complete make-up work.<br />
<br />
<b>Clearly Communicating Your Expectations</b>: Just as important as a well-developed unit plan, a syllabus is instrumental to starting the school year off on the right foot. Providing clear, understandable expectations to your students from day one will help to smoothe the inevitable transition period at the beginning of each school year, and will allow everyone to easily access the plan for the year. This specific <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/World-History-or-World-Studies-Syllabus-Advanced-Class-15630" target="_blank">World History Syllabus template</a> includes strategies for teaching World History content, student responsibilities, discipline policies, grading policies, and a parent/student contract. Easily editable, this syllabus is perfect for any World History or World Studies class.<br />
<br />
<b>Advanced Placement (AP) Preparation</b>: Though all classes need proper preparation, your AP courses especially need thorough development and attention to detail! Using this editable <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-AP-Course-Introduction-Summer-Assignments-Packet-3147831" target="_blank">16-page AP Introduction Packet</a>, you can communicate strategies, expectations, grading options, course requirements, supply lists, summer assignments, thesis assistance, study skills, and graphic organizers! A complete resource for AP courses, this one is a must-have.<br />
<br />
<b>Complete Back to School Classroom Organization</b>: To ensure that you have ALL the resources, tips, and techniques necessary to start the school year right, this <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Back-to-School-Classroom-Organization-Management-BUNDLE-1905519" target="_blank">Back to School Organization and Classroom Management Bundle</a> aligns with <a href="https://thecornerstoneforteachers.com/" target="_blank">Angela Watson’s 40 Hour Teacher Workweek</a>. This bundle includes seating charts, organizational tools and posters, lesson organization, classroom management tools, first day activities, student organizers, teacher portfolio guides, and tons of other products!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRmNXetbBS8BwR2ZbGs9jHaThbGGhpzYotBNRZ6Kn9hXig4oStTORjzRCLIM-Hz-rOARcsiX11Nx2baU1f8lcHbusnLJtsrw7EsjoTlj0lyysIoy8VWIgyHv8Dy7DZTtImNF8EGPmbmdWT/s1600/CE2B91E6-209C-4E15-8C50-93E96B46DC47.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="New teacher? First day jitters? Don't become the teacher who is always playing catch-up in your classroom! Staying two steps behind in a classroom that is moving at full-speed around you will only lead to stress and resentment toward your career! By planning throughout the summer and implementing new teaching techniques and fixes to help ease you into your first school year, you can start the year on a solid foundation that will surely lead to success! #newteacher #whyiteach #firstdayofschool #firstyearteacher" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRmNXetbBS8BwR2ZbGs9jHaThbGGhpzYotBNRZ6Kn9hXig4oStTORjzRCLIM-Hz-rOARcsiX11Nx2baU1f8lcHbusnLJtsrw7EsjoTlj0lyysIoy8VWIgyHv8Dy7DZTtImNF8EGPmbmdWT/s1600/CE2B91E6-209C-4E15-8C50-93E96B46DC47.jpeg" title="New teacher? First day jitters? Don't become the teacher who is always playing catch-up in your classroom! Staying two steps behind in a classroom that is moving at full-speed around you will only lead to stress and resentment toward your career! By planning throughout the summer and implementing new teaching techniques and fixes to help ease you into your first school year, you can start the year on a solid foundation that will surely lead to success! #newteacher #whyiteach #firstdayofschool #firstyearteacher" /></a><img src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/ecaf0127-b42d-4514-8e83-687a489c36c2" /></div>
<br />
<b>The Ultimate Lesson Plan for Teachers</b>: For a more comprehensive guide to all things teaching, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/A-Lesson-Plan-for-Teachers-New-or-Old-Experienced-that-is-Guidebook-15542" target="_blank">A Lesson Plan for Teachers, New or Old (Experienced, that is!)</a> is a step-by-step guide for any student teacher, new teacher, or experienced teacher. It covers all aspects of an effective, efficient, high-expectations classroom. Including organization, the first day of school, administration, co-worker relationships, and many antecdotes, this book really has it all.<br />
<br />
<b>Combatting First Day Jitters</b>: If you need a little more help in the first day of school department, this <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/First-Day-of-School-Lesson-Plan-for-Teachers-Middle-High-School-2679877" target="_blank">First Day of School Guide</a> will help to plan the perfect start to your school year. With an introduction on expectations and standards, a full agenda with ice breakers, introductions, syllabi coverage, and more, this guide will help you plan a first day lesson plan that you can work through without the butterflies.<br />
<br />
<b><u>BONUS!</u></b> Scavenge your way through the first day with this <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/A-Totally-Editable-First-Days-of-School-Classroom-Scavenger-Hunt-3992099" target="_blank">Editable First Days of School Classroom Scavenger Hunt</a>. With a little humor, you’ll survive the first day basics without a hitch!<br />
<br />
<b>Soliciting Student Feedback</b>: After you’ve perfectly planned and executed the first day, this <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Student-Study-Survey-Learning-Evaluation-Parent-Conferences-Spanish-Version-3037981" target="_blank">Student Survey for Learning Evaluation</a> will ensure that all expectations are communicated effectively and your students have a good understanding of how the year will progress. Providing them this outlet for feedback involves everyone in the learning process.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyf10XnYZFj6SPBGxn7m6kuNERooARzMpJj4-qtsa14lIQrc7zTwTtYNFaj3DRwy5Czq6eCCVg5PlU34vvsjmXxL3Ui0DDyiY8Omyq43Z-uPAzVyUj7_vHN5giODJPGFh0Y8gqSCCHLZGK/s1600/BEDD8831-8863-46A0-9D47-463C47FD50A3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you a Grade A procrastinator, barely surviving school year after school year, finishing each lesson plan a day late and a dollar short with a stress level off the charts? Why?! There are so many existing techniques, lesson plans, and teaching techniques that can break your procrastination habit! Start the next school year on solid ground with summer preparation that will set you up for a successful school year! #procrastinatingteacher #gradeaprocrastinator #teacherswhoprocrastinate #teachingstrategies" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyf10XnYZFj6SPBGxn7m6kuNERooARzMpJj4-qtsa14lIQrc7zTwTtYNFaj3DRwy5Czq6eCCVg5PlU34vvsjmXxL3Ui0DDyiY8Omyq43Z-uPAzVyUj7_vHN5giODJPGFh0Y8gqSCCHLZGK/s640/BEDD8831-8863-46A0-9D47-463C47FD50A3.png" title="Are you a Grade A procrastinator, barely surviving school year after school year, finishing each lesson plan a day late and a dollar short with a stress level off the charts? Why?! There are so many existing techniques, lesson plans, and teaching techniques that can break your procrastination habit! Start the next school year on solid ground with summer preparation that will set you up for a successful school year! #procrastinatingteacher #gradeaprocrastinator #teacherswhoprocrastinate #teachingstrategies" width="426" /></a></div>
Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, and your parents probably drilled the same adage into your head. To be successful, be prepared! A teacher who is playing catch-up in the classroom is already two steps behind. It’s hard enough to get caught up, but even harder to get ahead! Planning and preparing over the summer can help you to build a strong foundation for the school year and you can move with ease to the next break! Using these resources to keep daily obligations at a minimum and tweaking lessons and grading to work effectively for you will help you to stay one step ahead of the next curve ball that comes your way.<br />
<br />
Happy Teaching!<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5AEymXFofPgsKs4wLS5OIhxNwJKSQ8SirZU-sBXYyKf_BTjsqkJE6Vac1yAWRZPR-52R9vttg_-fenu1955PKEnluv-0rm378x46LEyyJaNQ0ETuMxW9UIB1dtWWRkLm1S8eRjFTYqY/s1600/Michele+Signature.png" style="text-align: center;" />
<br />
<div class="mailmunch-forms-widget-667436">
</div>
Michele Luckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15138061226034855643noreply@blogger.com0