If you’ve ever planned a direct instruction lesson and found yourself wondering, “Am I teaching a skill or a concept?” you’re not alone. Understanding the difference between procedural and declarative lessons can completely change the clarity and effectiveness of your…
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Parent-teacher conferences are one of the most important touchpoints between educators and families. It’s a time to connect, build relationships, and provide a clear picture of a student’s academic journey. However, these meetings can sometimes focus too heavily on areas…
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State testing season is over, and the data is in. While you can’t rewind and adjust instruction for this year’s students, summative assessment data offers a goldmine of information to propel your teaching practices forward in the new year. Here’s…
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The school year is winding down, and as educators, we’re naturally reflecting on the whirlwind of lessons, tests, and triumphs (and maybe a few tears) of the past months. But before you pack away your lesson plans and head for…
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As the doors of a new school year swing open, the first week sets the tone for the months ahead. Within the excitement and anticipation, the role of teacher clarity becomes important. Clear communication and well-defined expectations, also known as…
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Getting students to take a part in their learning is teacher clarity. One way to increase teacher clarity and empower your students to become more independent readers and thinkers is through reciprocal teaching. What is Reciprocal Teaching? Reciprocal Teaching was…
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Coming back to school after holiday breaks always creates a time to review simple routines and expectations. It’s also an opportunity for a fresh start. Here are five of my favorite things to do when returning from breaks! Talk about…
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Educational researcher, John Hattie, found that the tipping point of a .4 effect size was the point at which student performance surpasses the expectation of one year’s growth in one year’s time. He says that the vast majority of what…
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One of the best things I ever taught my students was that it’s okay to struggle. Struggling develops grit and perseverance and leads to success. The way I taught this to my students was by introducing the “Learning Pit.” I…
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“Success criteria” is not just another buzzword that is flying around education right now. Success criteria are essential in helping your students reach high levels of achievement, and you might be already doing it! So, let’s get into exactly what…
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