Elementary Grids: Tips From Our How-To Guide

Amanda BolonBlog, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Grade Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Mastery Done Better, Personalize Student Learning Better

TL;DR: When implementing The Grid Method with primary grades, consider the physical setup of your room. Evaluate your routines. Create an environment where failure is welcomed. When a student succeeds quickly, or they need a break from learning, allow them to lead. Run student-led conferences in your classroom. Elementary Grids: Tips From Our How-To Guide Is mastery learning something elementary … Read More

Grades, Feedback, and Assessments

Kristen KoppersBlog, Grade Better, Personalize Student Learning Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: The focus in school is frequently on the grades received rather than the skills obtained. Feedback and the improvement of skills should be valued more. We all need to work together to create this change. In 2015, I attended the “What Great Educators Do Differently” conference with my colleague in education and best friend. I attended a session by … Read More

ISJ and ISNB Introduction

Teach Better TeamBlog, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Mastery Done Better, Personalize Student Learning Better, Teach Further

 TL;DR: Science is a messy process that leads to understanding. Students need to learn and appreciate the messy process in addition to the end result. Interactive science journals (ISJ) and interactive science notebooks (ISNB) are tools that will help students understand the difference between the process and the end result. “Take chances, make mistakes, get MESSY!” – Ms. Frizzle, The … Read More

Designing Assessments According to Learning Styles

Sanam EdwardsBlog, Differentiate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Personalize Student Learning Better

TL;DR: Assessments should be conveyed in various forms appropriate for each student. Getting to know your students is imperative before beginning to design assessments. Designing Assessments According to Learning Styles We are witnessing an age of radical education where teachers are collectively raising their voices to advocate for our students’ benefit. They cry out for transformation, hungry for more autonomy … Read More

Redefining Personalization as a Pedagogy for Humanization

Teach Better TeamBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Personalize Student Learning Better

TL;DR: Personalized learning can ensure equitable learning in classrooms. We must reframe personalization not as a pedagogy of individualization, but as a pedagogy for humanization and connectedness. If there’s one thing that’s clear, it’s that the primary purpose of personalization is to ensure equitable learning in our classrooms. We know full well that students come into our classrooms as unique … Read More