Read alouds happen in my class nearly everyday. I teach sophomores, some of whom have twelfth grade or college reading levels. Still, read alouds, almost every day. 

Why? Well, language is meant to be heard. Fluent reading comes from hearing fluent readers. Clear writing comes...

If you're reading this, you're probably already a parent, or about to be one, or know someone who is. Congratulations. Parenthood is the hardest job of all because the responsibilities keep changing without letting you know.

So there really isn't one specific year that will test you the most...

I’m guessing most teachers have employed simulations and role play in their class. It’s a great way to learn. This Hacking Engagement Podcast episode demonstrates how you can combine role play and simulations with my favorite student activity.

I love Socratic seminars!...

Technology makes students more engaged. That’s not just a statement; it’s a fact that can be supported with research. A study from 2016 indicates that the iPad improved the literacy of students in kindergarten. It’s effective for all ages, too. Another study,...

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the abundance of incoherent writing ideas taking up space in your brain? When I conference with writers, they often let me know that they’re experiencing this by sharing statements like…..

“This is hard.”

“I’m not even sure...

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 42 percent of students who are bullied report that it happens in school hallways and stairwells.

Thirty-four percent say they’re bullied in the classroom, right under their teachers’ noses.

In an article at Edutopia.org,...

• First we establish the substructure of the space, which is prepared before...

Before we can teach kids to police their own social media practices, we must police our own actions on social networks, because kids are watching.

I was reminded of this lesson recently, during an enthusiastic debate on Facebook. I explain in the podcast episode above.

5 strategies to teach kids...

Going Google in Your School or District

Brad Currie, Billy Krakower, Scott Rocco

Rolling out a G Suite for Education plan for a school or district is an exciting yet daunting undertaking that requires time, support, and patience. The initiative requires a commitment to the Chrome Browser and an...

Hacking the Scavenger Hunt with QR Codes

By James Sturtevant

As I read through the 20 page assignment on the Industrial Revolution, I kept thinking to myself...Wow, this is boring! If I was feeling that burn; imagine what my students were going to feel.

I decided it was time to break out of...