How to Transform Your Science Bell Ringers With Phenomena That Instantly Boost Engagement
If your science bell ringers feel like they’re falling flat, you’re not alone. You put them up every day. Students answer them (sometimes). But the energy in the room doesn’t really change. It still takes 10–15 minutes to “warm up” their thinking, and by then your lesson has already lost momentum. The problem usually isn’t […]
How To Handle Missed Labs Without Losing Your Mind
Missed labs. They happen. A student is sick, a field trip runs long, someone forgets to set an alarm… and suddenly your carefully planned, hands-on lab feels like a logistical nightmare. But here’s the truth: missed labs don’t have to derail your class—or your sanity. Over the years, I’ve developed a system that keeps things […]
When Students Don’t Care About Science…How to Spark Engagement That Actually Works
Let’s be honest—there are days when it feels like your students could not care less about science. You bring your best energy, you set up the coolest demo, and somehow…nothing lands. Blank stares. Shrugs. Maybe even a few “Is this for a grade?” questions. I’ve been there—many times. Over the years, though, I’ve learned that […]
How Stickers Became My Most Powerful Classroom Management Hack
Yes, you read that right. Stickers. I’ve worked in several schools over the years, and no matter the zip code, class size, or curriculum, one thing never changes: I’m the teacher with the stickers. You’ll find them tucked in my lesson plan book, on my desk, or peeking out of my pocket during a fire […]
How to Make Science Awards More Meaningful Than Just a Certificate
Let’s be honest—being a secondary science teacher means wearing a lot of hats. We’re not just teaching content; we’re nurturing curiosity, encouraging problem-solving, and helping students discover their place in a complex world. That’s why it’s so important to take a step back and recognize our students—not just for their grades, but for their growth, […]
New Teaching Approaches for Middle and High School Teachers
We all know that since 2020 teaching has changed dramatically. The content has remained the same for the most part but the teaching approach and the learning process have fundamentally changed. It’s not just students who have changed, but teachers too! Therefore, new teaching strategies are necessary to help the learning process for everyone in […]
Transform Your Science Teaching with the Magic of a Pacing Guide
Do you like puzzles? If so, I’ve got a teacher tool that’s like a puzzle in that you fit pieces together, and upon completion, you can marvel at your work with a great sense of accomplishment. Spoiler alert: It’s a pacing guide for your science class! Using a pacing guide in your science class is […]
Engaging Science Activities to Fill Your First Week of School
Ah, the first week of school. The energy in the building is a mix of excitement, nerves, and fresh-start optimism. New faces, unopened notebooks, and a full year of scientific discovery ahead. For teachers, the first week is more than just introductions and reviewing rules. It is your chance to set the tone for the […]
Tips To Know When and How to Re-teach Science Lessons
You know that moment when you’re in the middle of a new unit and you mention something from the last unit and see a sea of furrowed brows or tilted heads. Knowing as a teacher that what you just said was definitely covered in a science lesson, an activity, and covered on an evaluation. And […]