Today is World Voice Day, and the theme this year is “Focus on Your Voice”. While the organizers are more concerned with the science behind vocal communication, there is an opportunity here to encourage student voice. As educators, we can help students learn to contribute their values and perspectives to conversations as we teach and … read more »
As I write this blog, millions of students are out of school, some indefinitely, due to closures related to the coronavirus outbreak. Educators immediately jumped into action to provide at-home lessons for students. Some sent home learning packets; others didn’t even have time to prepare at-home materials yet have found ways to stay in touch … read more »
Poetry is when an emotion has found its thought and the thought has found words. Robert Frost Next month is National Poetry Month, a celebration of poetry and poets in the United States. Also, March 26 marks the anniversary of the birth of Robert Frost, the well-known American Poet Laureate over 100 years ago. As … read more »
African American history is celebrated every year during February. Why not all year long? African American history has existed as long as America. If you are looking to add more African American History in your classroom, there are a multitude of resources available. No matter whether you are looking for general African American history … read more »
African American History Month began when Carter G. Woodson created Negro History Week in 1926. It is always celebrated in February. According to the Library of Congress, it “celebrates the contributions that African Americans have made to American history in their struggles for freedom and equality and deepens our understanding of our Nation’s history.” … read more »
A new year is a time for reflection and resolutions. Perhaps you have taken the time to reflect upon your teaching and want to make some changes. One area all teachers should think about is how well they effectively communicate with parents and family members as part of their ongoing efforts to make all students … read more »
“I had to make my own living and my own opportunity. But I made it! Don’t sit down and wait for the opportunities to come. Get up and make them.” Madam C. J. Walker Have you heard of Madam C. J. Walker? She is famous for being one of the first African-American female millionaires. With … read more »
November 19 marks the anniversary of the Gettysburg Address given by Abraham Lincoln in 1863. This extraordinary speech is taught in classrooms around the country as an example of a powerful speech that shares the principles of democracy and freedom during a difficult time in American history. Although relatively short (about 2 ½ minutes), this … read more »
“No skill is more crucial to the future of a child than literacy.” Los Angeles Times November 1st kicks off Family Literacy Month with National Family Literacy Day. These events highlight the importance of family literacy programs. Typical activities include inviting family members to the school to read to students, book drives, celebrity readers, and … read more »
Story Maker is a simple digital storytelling tool for elementary students to write a story. Students can practice their writing skills, add color, add additional pages, and then save (or print) when finished. Story Maker is part of the ABCya site, offering countless free web games, interactives, and learning experiences. Grade level Story Maker … read more »