Teaching Long Division. I can almost feel the pain just typing the words. I think I have some residual PTSD from erasing a hole through my paper in Ms. Donahue's fourth grade class in the 80's. Guessing wrong how many times 37 "go-zin-ta" 566... and not knowing until the end of a traumatic subtraction exercise complete with WAY too much ... read more
Video Math Lessons Help Students Self-Assess
One of the most challenging aspects of teaching math is assessing each student’s level of understanding. It feels like it changes minute by minute- and there’s no neon ticker scrolling over their heads! I was shocked when I realized that the video math lessons I was already making, might actually help with assessment. My biggest fear, ... read more
Digital Writer’s Notebook
In 2018, I toyed with the idea of digital writer's notebooks. In 2019 I piloted it with just one class during the Writer Wednesday part of our weekly ELA warm ups. When we found ourselves in a global pandemic in 2020, I was glad I took that risk! If you'd like to try my templates out for yourself, click here. I love this format for a few ... read more
How to Teach Multiplying Fractions
It took me years to figure out how to teach multiplying fractions so that students could conceptualize a part of a part. I learned that the traditional algorithm had to take a back seat to drawing and color coding models. When teaching this unit, I've found that the most important tool for my students- is sharpened colored pencils. We ... read more
Subtracting Mixed Numbers with Video Lessons
Every year, many of my students struggle to subtract mixed numbers when regrouping is needed. Flipping my instruction around subtracting mixed numbers has made a HUGE difference! Once I have initially launched the concept, students work through problems at their own pace. First, they attempt a problem independently. Next, they click on ... read more
Reading Each Other’s Writing
Are you hoping for your students to read and enjoy each other's writing? I was too! And I found it so challenging for so long. This strategy, I call the Writing Shuffle, has made all the difference. Not only do students get excited to read each other's work- but they are thoughtful about feedback, and can engage in the entire process from ... read more
No More Reluctant Writers
For years, the reluctant writers in my classroom were my biggest stressor when it came to teaching middle school writing. There were so many students in my class that just needed to pick up their pencil and write!! No matter how much I begged, some students just would not write... and if they wouldn't write, it was hard to get to those ... read more
Halloween Math Choice Boards
Differentiating math lessons for ALL of your learners can be hard. With a few go-to strategies though, it doesn't have to be overwhelm you! One of my favorite ways to reach students at a a variety of levels in one lesson, is by creating math choice boards. I create my choice board with three student avatars in mind: one who is working on ... read more
Cooperative Learning: Jigsaw
Are you looking for a cooperative learning structure that will really get your students working together? If so, the jigsaw strategy is for you! Using a jigsaw in your classroom is a great way to teach students to work cooperatively, as they truly rely on each other. Just like all of the pieces of a puzzle are needed to complete a ... read more
Group Work Tips: Partnering
I'm always on the lookout for a handy student group work strategy. This one, Clock Partners, is one of my favorites! Sometimes when you prepare for group work, you stay up too late the night before making sure everyone has just the right partner. Have you been there? I have! And, honestly, even if it goes well- it leaves me dreading doing ... read more
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