At its worst, a student presentation is a nervous, unprepared student reading note cards to the class in a barely audible voice. No one wants that. But with a little guidance, that same kid can create an interesting, dynamic presentation that will not only hold every one’s attention, but actually teach them something.Here are some ideas for improving your students’ presentations: Groups are Good A
Archives for January 2011
What Would You Do to Change the World?
What’s more, we are the first nation to be founded for the sake of an idea — the idea that each of us deserves the chance to shape our own destiny. That is why centuries of pioneers and immigrants have risked everything to come here. It’s why our students don’t just memorize equations, but answer questions like “What do you think of that idea? What
Valentine’s Day Worksheets for Free!
Valentine’s Day is Coming soon! Get your students to use their heads in this time of the heart with these two free Valentine’s Day worksheets.
No More Cupcakes – Alternative Class Birthday Ideas
We have all had our class birthday treats horror stories. Mine was a parent who sent in two dozen doughnuts – all different shapes, sizes, and flavors. That was fun. One of my friends had to deal with a fancy cake that was clearly not big enough for the class, ice cream, and no plates, spoons, or serving utensils. On top of logistics, today many children have
Should I Use a Graphic Organizer?
You can get the two Graphic Organizers pictured in this post plus one more for free here. The graphic organizer pictured to the right could easily be made into a question and answer worksheet format. The assignment would be fine, but the graphic organizer is a much more appealing and possibly more appropriate format. You probably use graphic organizers with your students all of the
3 New Years Resolutions for Teachers
Here we are in a brand new year…with the same old challenges. The same kids that drive you crazy and the same administrators that may also be driving you crazy. Too little time, too much to do, and so on and so on. So, here are three New Years resolutions to help you and your students make it to June. Resolution #1: Try something new
Get Three in a Row with Tic-Tac-Toe Choice Grids!
One of my mentors from my early teaching days said that we should strive to give students “freedom within structure.” Tic-Tac-Toe Choice Grids are one excellent way to do that. To make a Tic-Tac-Toe Choice Grid, simply put nine more or less equal projects, assignments, or activities into a 3×3 grid. Students must then choose three of the projects to complete. However, just like in
10 Fun and Creative Thank You Note Ideas
Writing thank you notes for holiday gifts doesn’t have to be a chore. Here are 10 creative thank you note ideas to help make writing thank yous fun! Make thank you notes into an art project: Get out the crayons, the glitter, and the glue. Have your child make a picture (ideally incorporating the gift), and then write a note underneath or on the back.