There has been a lot of brain research in the last 10 years that has really informed teachers about what is happening with students who fidget a lot (or those who don’t but are sleepy and not engaged). Brains today are not the same brains that existed 1000 years ago. I wasn’t there 1000 years ago, but neuroscientists tell me so and I believe them. There are many aspects of brain ... Read More about Solutions for Fidgety Students
Stress Free Chrome Book Use in the Classroom
I have used a chrome cart in my classroom on a regular basis for the last 3 years. Before that, I was trekking to the computer lab (we wasted a lot of class time, but we got some exercise).I have used a variety of Internet activities in my classroom ever since my third year of teaching. Over that time, aside from the focused tasks that we accomplish online, I have learned some basic rules ... Read More about Stress Free Chrome Book Use in the Classroom
August Sampler Freebie Available
How did it get to be August 1 already? I am going back to school tomorrow and have mixed emotions, sorry to be going back while it is still sooooo hot and excited to meet my new students and try out some new activities with them. Students are returning on this Friday (I know, who has students start school on Friday, right?) and one of the activities I am going to use is my conversation ... Read More about August Sampler Freebie Available
My New Solution to New Students
Last year I will be the first to admit that I was really worn out and frazzled by the constant stream of new students floating through my classes. I have read a lot of blogs and it appears that other teachers do not have this problem. The students they begin the year with are the same set they end the year with--I am jealous. I understand that there are always a few schedule changes. ... Read More about My New Solution to New Students
I Have Postiphobia–There I’ve Said It
Postiphobia--the fear of running out of Post-It's-- is a real problem. I should know, I suffer from it. My Postiphobia is so bad that I have begun to hoard them, and last year I am embarassed to admit that a perfectly lovely student asked for 1 (a single post-it, not a pack) and I gave her the most horrified look and said "No, these are MY post its". She looked at me like I was insane. ... Read More about I Have Postiphobia–There I’ve Said It
Back to the Future (Next Year Plans)
Since I broke my arm (really, really broken in many pieces) I have been off work, which has left me with a lot of mixed feelings. I needed the time to heal, and regain use of my arm, but I have missed out on my wonderful classes. I really had some extraordinary students this year and not only have I missed seeing them, but on Friday they will have their 8th grade promotion and move ... Read More about Back to the Future (Next Year Plans)
