The Evolving Role of Librarians
These days, more schools are transforming traditional libraries into learning commons—places where students collaborate and participate in learning.
Reading and Literacy
Creating a Reading Culture (Even When You’re Low on Time and Funds)
"Why read when you can watch the movie?" In my eight years as an educator, no other sentiment has been quite so crushing to hear from children.
Learning with Podcasts
Podcasts are increasingly popular: one-third of Americans say they’ve listened to one in the past month. This emerging technology could play a key role in the K–12 classroom.
Teaching the Real Purpose of Writing
In English classes, which require students to sit and read or write for extended periods of time, it can be challenging to get them to want to do their work.
Sit. Stay. Read: How Dogs Can Help Improve Literacy
One of the best literacy teachers Jane Swire knows is her dog, Blizzard. She and Blizzard visit the local library once a week during the school year as part of a reading program.
How Technology Can Help (and Hinder) with Reading Development
For students who struggle with reading, adding technology can be hugely beneficial. But there’s still a lot to be said about old school methods.
Helping Kids With Dyslexia
Technology can be a classroom boon for those who are dyslexic. Computer-based experiences can promote social emotional learning, while apps can help to promote reading skills.
Preventing the Summer Slide
Perhaps some learning loss is to be expected during summer vacation, but there are reasonable concerns about how the break may weaken students’ reading and math skills.
“But I’m just not a good writer”
As soon as I utter the words “writing assignment,” a look of panic appears on my students’ faces. Their hands shoot up like rockets and the questions immediately start.
Students as Teachers
Nothing commits knowledge to memory better than having to teach it. Thus, what better way to teach students a piece of literature than to have them teach it themselves?