The Stories We Miss: Uncovering the Lesser-Known Contributors to History

Author: Sharon Hall | Posted:
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Although teaching significant historical events is important, we sometimes overlook opportunities to recognize those who contribute to the story in lesser-known ways. Integrating these underrecognized persons into lessons offers opportunities for deeper learning and understanding of world events while increasing student engagement. In addition, learning about the lesser-known stories in history enables students to explore … read more »

The Power of Retrieval Practice for Long-Term Learning

Author: Traci Hedetniemi | Posted:
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Every minute spent studying should strengthen a student’s grasp of the material, yet many common review techniques leave learners with a false sense of mastery while doing little to cement long-term understanding. In this post, we’ll explore how retrieval practice—a research-backed learning strategy that asks students to actively recall information—boosts retention, and we’ll share practical … read more »

Tech Tool of the Month: Wriddle – Part 2

Author: Melissa Henning | Posted:
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In part one of this blog, we introduced you to Wriddle and discussed applying the SAMR Model and the Triple E Framework to using it in your instruction. Today’s post offers detailed instructions for using this tool and shares classroom ideas.  Wriddle is a free multimedia literacy tool where students can write, draw, and record … read more »

Tech Tool of the Month: Wriddle – Part 1

Author: Melissa Henning | Posted:
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Wriddle is a creative literary development tool for young learners that combines the power of writing, drawing, and speaking. Students can use the tool to draw pictures using the provided online markers and paint options, add text, and create recordings. Teachers can develop FREE accounts, including up to 150 students and five additional teacher collaborators. … read more »

Celebrating Family Literacy: Engaging Ideas for All Ages

Author: Sharon Hall | Posted:
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“Literacy is the most basic currency of the knowledge economy.” Barack Obama In 1994, Congress passed a joint resolution designating November 1 as Family Literacy Day. This day kicks off Family Literacy Month and emphasizes the importance of reading and learning together as a family. It’s vital to emphasize to students and families of all … read more »

Enhance Reading and Writing with Microsoft Tools for the Classroom

Author: Sharon Hall | Posted:
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In today’s digital age, technology offers many tools for enhancing reading and writing skills. Microsoft integrates several innovative tools into its products, including Reading Coach, Word Online, and Forms. These AI-powered tools empower teachers to meet students’ individual needs, fostering literacy growth through personalized reading practice, peer collaboration, and differentiated instruction. With features that promote … read more »

How to Learn to Love AI for High School Research & Writing

Author: Erin Mulvany-Mankowski | Posted:
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Let’s take a minute to talk about artificial intelligence (AI). The Terminator, Blade Runner, and The Matrix warned everyone about the dangers of AI, but it’s been unleashed on an unsuspecting world, and we need to navigate it. At first, we struggled to keep it in check: students turned in horrific AI-generated essays, and teachers lamented the loss of … read more »

What is so Phenomenal about Phenomena?

Author: Megan Boletta | Posted:
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“A Scientist in his laboratory is not a mere technician; he is also a child confronting natural phenomena that impress him as though they were fairy tales.” – Marie Curie The introduction of the NGSS Science Standards placed an emphasis on the use of phenomena in the classroom. But what exactly is a phenomenon, and … read more »

Making Measurement Matter on National Metric Day

Author: Traci Hedetniemi | Posted:
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Measurement is a mathematical and scientific skill we use daily, but it’s often only explored in singular lessons or units rather than infused throughout the math and science curriculum. Helping students experience measurement as a natural way they “see” and “do” math is essential for building a mathematical mindset. The National Council of Teachers of … read more »

Enhance Student Learning Through Underrepresented Historical Figures: Elizabeth Cady Stanton

Author: Sharon Hall | Posted:
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I forged the thunderbolts. She fired them. Elizabeth Cady Stanton Elizabeth Cady Stanton is a name that might sound familiar, but what do you know about her contributions to American history? Perhaps, more importantly, what do your students know about her contributions? Students often obtain a deeper understanding of history when they learn about lesser-known … read more »