7 Ways to Unleash Curiosity with Phenomena

In a recent post, we discussed how phenomena can transform teaching and learning by serving as a catalyst that sparks curiosity and student engagement. This idea translates across all grade levels and subjects because it presents students with real-world situations and questions that ignite imaginations and inspire inquiry-based learning.  To effectively integrate phenomena into your … read more »

Tech Tool of the Month: iThrive Sim – Part 2

In part one of this blog post, we introduced you to iThrive Sim 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.  iThrive Sim provides several interactive educational simulations tailored for secondary students that focus on civics and … read more »

Making Space for Juneteenth: Creative Ways to Celebrate and Educate

Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, marks the end of slavery in the United States and commemorates the announcement of freedom to enslaved African Americans in Texas, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. It offers a profound opportunity to delve into the complexities of American history and the ongoing journey toward … read more »

Let’s Talk About: Media Literacy

As an educator, it’s essential to grasp the significant role CNN plays in the ‘CNN Effect,’ a term coined to describe the profound impact of CNN on the news industry. Since its inception in June of 1980, CNN has transformed news delivery, shifting from periodic updates to 24-hour coverage. This shift has made real-time information … read more »

Tech Tool of the Month: Microsoft Designer – Part 1

Microsoft Designer is a simple-to-use, powerful AI tool that produces high-quality images based on your prompt. Use the chat box to input as much descriptive language as possible, click enter, and Designer will produce three or four images that match your prompt. Don’t like any of the options? You can generate a new set of images … read more »

Let’s Talk About: 4 Activities for Oral Language Practice

As teachers, we have the unique opportunity to witness the transformative power of authentic spoken communication practice in our students. This not only cultivates essential language skills but also nurtures confidence, creativity, and learner agency. Today, let’s embark on a journey of exploration with four cross-curricular engaging activity ideas that harness student voice while fostering … read more »

Let’s Talk About: Tech for Littles

As we observe National Kindergarten Day, let’s consider instructional approaches for our littlest learners. The annual observance reminds us of the unique needs of our primary students and the importance of creating supportive learning environments. Among the various approaches, one strategy stands out – the intentional integration of literacy work with other content.  Literacy experiences … read more »

Multilingual Learners and Your School Library

School libraries play a pivotal role in enhancing multilingual learning experiences by providing resources and support to ensure that all students, regardless of their language background, have equal opportunities to learn and thrive. There are many effective strategies for leveraging school library resources to support multilingual learners, but a diverse library collection is the first … read more »

Celebrating World Voice Day in the Classroom

Have you heard of World Voice Day? On April 16, people around the globe celebrate the significance of our voices and the art of communication. As we approach World Voice Day, it’s an excellent opportunity to engage our students in conversations about the importance of vocal health and effective communication. This day, with its motto … read more »

Enhancing Communication for Diverse Learners Through Multimodal Learning

Designing instruction that addresses many unique learning styles and individual student needs is vital in today’s diverse classrooms. Multimodal learning is a powerful approach to instruction that engages learners of all backgrounds, abilities, and preferences by offering activities in many different formats. This learning approach enhances classroom communication by including supportive and inclusive lessons that … read more »