Let’s talk about self-identity. What is self-identity? Self-identity is defined as recognizing your qualities and potential as an individual and in relation to society. If you’re here just for the how of helping your students feel more valued in the classroom by helping them tap into their identities, you can find my self-identity activity resource here: All About My Identity…. Read More
3 Fundamental Principles of Counting and How to Teach Them in an Equitable Way
The fundamental principles of counting are foundational to students’ mathematical development. Over the years I’ve worked with teachers to implement counting collections in their classrooms. I have found it to be a more equitable practice than traditional curricula and workbooks. There is an access point for all students, especially your English language learners. Let’s get into what the foundational counting… Read More
3 Effective Strategies to Promote Discussions in the Classroom
Are you looking for strategies to promote academic discussions in the classroom? Then keep on readin’! During my ninth year in education, I finally learned three strategies that work like charm. I know what you might be thinking… but will their conversations in the classroom actually stay on topic? Will they all be engaged? Will they be speaking and actually… Read More
5 Simple Steps to Help You Use The Pair Sharing Strategy Effectively
How Does Think Pair Share Work? This pair-sharing strategy can be extremely valuable to student learning if implemented effectively. It is mostly utilized during whole group instruction. When you are giving direct instruction, students are paired up so that they can process information throughout the lesson with each other. For example, if you have a 10-15 minutes lesson on parts… Read More
Why is Questioning in Math So Important to Student Success?
Questioning in math engages students, gives them the opportunity to deepen their conceptual understanding, and promotes metacognition. Metacognition, or thinking about your thinking, is our end goal in all areas for our students, right? We want them to think about why they are doing something, saying something, or how they can formulate words to verbalize their thinking. When students become… Read More
2 Fun and Engaging Cultural Diversity Activities to Use in Your Classroom
What is Cultural Diversity? Cultural diversity is the existence of people who come from different ethnic backgrounds. They practice various religions and have cuisine, language, music, art, social behaviors, etc… unique to their culture. Why is Cultural Diversity Important? Celebrating our own culture and learning about the cultures of others raises awareness and builds tolerance. In addition, it helps to… Read More