The evolving landscape of student behavior, especially in a post-pandemic era, has prompted us to delve deeper into the factors influencing these shifts. Beyond the commonly cited culprits like screen time and socialization, there lies a fascinating connection between problem behaviors and cognitive challenges. In this blog post, let's explore insights from the ASCD article "What's Behind the Rise in Problem Behavior? It Could Be Cognitive," shedding light on how understanding cognitive factors, specifically executive function and memory, can empower teachers to navigate and enhance student behavior.

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When it comes to the Common Core Standards, one of the areas we find that the most growth is needed is in the speaking and listening strand. One strategy that we have introduced into our curriculum over the past few years to help build those skills is adding podcasts into our classroom instruction. There are many benefits to adding podcasts into your classroom instruction. If you’ve ever wondered about how podcasts could benefit your instruction, read on dear TTD followers, we have got some ideas for you! 

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Discover how a paradigm shift in education, driven by the insights from Natalie Wexler's book "The Knowledge Gap," is revolutionizing reading comprehension. Explore the importance of prioritizing knowledge over mere skills, bridging educational gaps, and empowering students for a brighter future. Learn how evidence-based practices are transforming classrooms.

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In the ever-evolving landscape of English Language Arts (ELA) instruction, educators are continually seeking innovative ways to enhance literacy skills. One often underutilized but potent tool is morphology—the study of word structure. Let’s explore how to seamlessly integrate morphology lessons into your ELA classroom, enriching vocabulary and fostering a deeper understanding of language.

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Project based learning (PBL) is a teaching method in which students gain knowledge and skills by working a couple of weeks to delve into learning and writing to an authentic, hopefully engaging and complex question / problem / challenge. Students generate their inquiry, plan out their learning progress, and figure out how to present their new found knowledge to the world.

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In the real world of education in America, teachers often find themselves faced with the challenge of managing extreme behavior in students. A recent article on ASCD's Educational Leadership platform provides valuable insights and strategies to help educators navigate these situations with finesse and empathy.

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Today, I want to talk to you about a class book to teach in the classroom – "The Little Prince" by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. Be sure to check out our Little Prince lesson plans in our TpT store for how we teach it.

Now, I know what you might be thinking. "But isn't that just a children's book?" Oh, how wrong you are! "The Little Prince" is a masterpiece that can be appreciated by readers of all ages, and as teachers, we have the unique opportunity to share its beauty and wisdom with our students.

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Our classrooms are made up of amazing, beautiful, and diverse students. Therefore, we feel that our curriculum should reflect that same diversity. The stories we read, the texts we share, the videos we watch, the images we use within our lessons should all act as mirrors and windows for our students.

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Have you ever wondered why some students struggle with reading comprehension, despite having strong word reading skills? The answer lies in the fascinating world of executive functioning. This cognitive powerhouse plays a pivotal role in learning, particularly in the realm of successful reading comprehension.

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In 2024, teachers in the United States are facing challenges related to curriculum restrictions and censorship in the classroom. Laws known as "educational gag orders" have proliferated since 2021, aiming to limit what teachers can teach, particularly on topics like race, gender, sexuality, and U.S. history. These laws are vague and carry severe penalties, leading to self-censorship among teachers and depriving students of valuable learning experiences.

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Having opportunities to work as a team helps to build a strong and healthy classroom community.

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