I have been a classroom teacher or instructional coach in upper elementary grades for over 30 years. I get asked for advice or “words of wisdom” all the time. (This happens when you become one of the “elders” at your school!) So, I’ve been collecting some thoughts that are tried and true. Pick and choose… Read More
The good thing about a very chatty class is that they are social and love to talk to each other! The bad thing about a very chatty class is that they can be a bit too social. The trick is to channel that chatter in positive, engaging ways. Here are 15 tips. 1 – Teach… Read More
Do I really have to talk about expectations and rules and consequences on the first day of school? According to Michael Linsin of Smart Classroom Management, the answer is yes. Talking about behavior, rules, and consequences on the first day might seem harsh. But think about how your students are feeling. They might be nervous… Read More
Once upon a time, when I was student teaching, we used Madeline Hunter’s seven-step lesson plan. It has held up over time and remains a great model for direct instruction. (I found a PDF online, the same document we used at UNC-Chapel Hill back then.) While she is known for her lesson plan format, another… Read More
You’ve planned your first day and first week of school activities. You have made copies and collected supplies. You’re observing your students work on the activities, talking to each other, and enjoying every moment in your classroom. Then you hear the dreaded words: “I’m finished! What do I do now?” Welcome to the world of… Read More
I have over 30 years experience teaching and instructional coaching in upper elementary grades. Clearly, I love it or I would not have lasted this long! Here are 40 of my best tips for teaching upper elementary grades. Student Relationships 1 – Building relationships with every single student is job #1. Every day. Even the… Read More