Brain-Based Learning

Sound familiar? I am sure it does. We hear it all the time. But, what does it mean? I hate going to workshops with presenters who drop a lot buzz words and assume that everyone in the room knows exactly what they are referring to.

So for all of my teachers out there, who may not have received a clear picture of what brain-based learning looks like in the classroom, this is for YOU!

Brain-Based Learning = engaging students with strategies that cater to way their mind works.

Below are some of the instructional strategies that you can use to reach all the learners in your class. But, you are so AWESOME, you are probably using these already!

--Storytelling--Mnemonic Devices--Manipulative--Music--Games--Movement--Visuals--Cooperative Learning--Discussion--Role Play--Graphic Organizers--Technology--Analogies--

Another great resource is Worksheets Don't Grow Dendrites by Marcia L. Tate. 

READ IT, LOVE IT

Click Here to visit this author's website

This is for my CCS Lateral Entry Teachers :-)

I am so excited to working with you all. I am posting the instructions for the magic book here. This way you will always know where to find it if you ever need it.

Click for Magic Book PDF

Cool Video!

Tablets in the Classroom

A colleague sent me this infographic that lists FREE app for education. Enjoy!

http://www.slideshare.net/gtoews/free-apps-list

26 Newcomers

Last week I had the opportunity to work the new lateral entry teachers that will be entering our county. I must say, I thoroughly enjoyed myself. It was a day of laughter and learning. I would like to say to all who attended: I truly believe that if you take heed and put into practice the information given during Mini-Camp you will have a very successful year. Remember to always seek wise counsel and be receptive to good guidance. 

 

Preparing for the First Days of School? No Sweat!

Setting Up Your Classroom

Your classroom arrangement has a direct impact on student behavior and learning. Be sure to spend quality time and thought in the planning of your class layout.  Your classroom organization will speak to the students the very moment they step foot into your room. It will speak to them about the type of teacher you are. What message do you want to send to your students on the first day?

Remember:

-         - All students need an unobstructed view of the board or primary instruction area.

-       -  Your layout should promote the ability of interaction between students. Pairs or triples are great for the beginning of the year. (Personally, I would not recommend groups larger than 4 for the start of the year).

-        - You and the students need to be able to move easily through the aisles. Create sections of desks by placing large gaps between rows. This ensures that you will be able to physically reach every student.

-        - Students should have access to classroom supplies. So, be sure to make them accessible.

You can save yourself some back pain by visiting: http://teacher.scholastic.com/tools/class_setup/, on this site you can arrange and rearrange your classroom virtually.

Click here to get started!

I've Enjoyed My Break!

Well, I'm back at it! Please excuse my absence. I took the summer off :-)

 NEW blog posts are coming soon.

Today I spent the day working in my classroom in preparation for the upcoming school year. Here are some pictures of progress. I didn't get very far, but I'll be sure to post the "after" pictures.

 I'm so excited to meet my new kids and to begin sharing ideas with you  again.