12 Ways to Motivate Reluctant Readers

…dozen strategies that are often included in Reading Workshop, and none of them involve stickers, certificates, or pizza. External rewards may work in the short term, but the best way…

Make Test Prep Meaningful!

…it’s a fact of life.I firmly believe that fabulous instruction within a safe and supportive classroom community is the best “test prep” strategy out there. That being said, it is…

What Every New Teacher Needs to Know

…for the real thing. You learn as you go and don’t be afraid to seek advice from your fellow team. There’s a lot more, but that’s a good start:) Best

Building EQ While Expanding IQ

…students understand that the word “frustrated,” for instance, is very different from “ballistic.” After choosing the cards that best labeled Sophie’s various states of anger, I asked my class to…

15 Super Gifts for Student Teachers!

…I asked the fans of my Teaching Resources Facebook page to share the best student teacher gifts they’ve given or received. Over 250 people responded, and even though there were…

How to Create a Class Handbook that Rocks!

…information now and update your handbook next year. Welcome letter Best way to contact you Class website or blog info Homework and grading policies Snack guidelines Birthday party policies List…

DonorsChoose: A Jackpot of Classroom Funding!

…expert because she reads and edits project proposals which means she knows exactly how to write them so they have the best chance of getting funded. She’s been using DonorsChoose…