You have probably heard the term inquiry-based learning at some point in your teaching journey. There has been a significant focus and push on this approach in the last several years. I know there has been a myriad of PD in our local school district about this approach. But maybe…
As science teachers, one of our most important tasks is to convey complex scientific concepts in an engaging and accessible manner. Among these, the greenhouse effect stands as a cornerstone of climate science and environmental studies. Explaining it effectively to middle and high school students can be both challenging and…
What is Density? Teaching middle and high school students about density is paramount because it lays the groundwork for a deeper understanding of the physical world and fosters critical thinking. Density is all about how closely packed the particles in a substance are. It's the ratio of mass to volume,…
Exploring the wonders of our planet, especially its enigmatic interior, is a pivotal part of Earth Science education in middle and high school. The Earth's interior is a fascinating realm filled with layers, mysteries, and scientific marvels waiting to be uncovered in your classroom. Teaching about the Earth's interior might…
Attendance tracking in a classroom can often be a mundane task, but it doesn't have to be. With a little creativity, you can turn this routine process into an engaging and interactive activity that your students will actually look forward to. Let's explore six innovative ideas that not only simplify…
As a classroom teacher, it's important to ensure that substitute teachers are set up for success in your classroom. This will make life easier for you, the sub, and your students too! In your absence, your students can continue to learn and thrive and when you return, you can continue…
Are you heading into the classroom for the first time? Or maybe you’re a new teacher in the first few years of teaching? You’ve probably asked for and received a lot of advice, maybe even some that was unsolicited! Some say that teaching is both an art and a science.…
As teachers in middle school and high school we know that having a strong knowledge of our subject matter is only one key to success. Another key to success, and perhaps one that might dominate all others, is having effective classroom management strategies. No matter how much we know our…
When you step into your classroom, do you and your students feel a sense of confidence and comfort? As high school teachers, we often hesitate to explore classroom decor ideas because many options available seem more suited for elementary settings. However, it is entirely possible to create a positive, engaging,…
Throughout the school year, we as teachers focus on building relationships between teachers and students. These teacher-student relationships create an in-class dynamic that supports the social and academic development of students, and often makes the work in the classroom, especially for classroom management, easier. But as we close out a…
While our primary focus in the classroom often revolves around content and meeting curriculum requirements, it is crucial not to overlook the realm of learning skills that lie just beyond. Among these vital skills are student organization and time management, which may not always be the most captivating aspects of…
The start of any new course comes with excitement and a bit of trepidation about planning it all! I like to channel that excitement into planning so I can alleviate some stress. Maybe you’re like me and you like to map things out too. Having an overall plan means you’re…
A virtual field trip is a guided exploration to travel the globe and visit natural environments without leaving the classroom. These educational experiences allow students to explore sites from the present or past. And the best part is they are aligned with curriculum standards to meet your classroom expectations and needs.
For over a decade, my relationship with lesson plans has been quite a journey, resembling a rollercoaster ride. I was first introduced to the concept of lesson plans during my college education courses. My professors emphasized their significance, highlighting how they provide teachers with a structured framework and a sense…
