What is this newsletter about?
Each month, we will be sharing tips, strategies, information, and ideas for your classroom. If you are in need of resources, materials, etc., let one of the instructional coaches or Ms. Greiner know and we will help in any way!
The following words are used throughout standardized testing for the state of Missouri:
- analyze
- cite
- compare
- comprehend
- contrast
- describe
- evaluate
- explain
- identify
- infer
- interpret
- organize
- retell
- summarize
- synthesize
Classroom Strategy to Increase Participation
One Classroom Strategy I love to use in my classroom is Think-Pair-Share. Think-Pair-Share (TPS) is a collaborative learning strategy in which students work together to solve a problem or answer a question about the assigned reading. This technique requires students to (1) think individually about a topic or answer to a question; and (2) share ideas with classmates. Discussing an answer with a partner serves to maximize participation, focus attention and engage students in comprehending the reading material.
Create and use the strategy:
- T : (Think) Teachers begin by asking a specific question about the text. Students "think" about what they know or have learned about the topic.
- P : (Pair) Each student should be paired with another student or a small group.
- S : (Share) Students share their thinking with their partner. Teachers expand the "share" into a whole-class discussion.
6 Great Strategies to Use in a Classroom
- VISUALIZATION: helps to bring concepts to life. Examples include: photos, audio clips, videos, field trips
- COOPERATIVE LEARNING: promotes students working together in a small group or whole class activity. Examples include: conducting science experiments, acting out drama sketches/plays, solving mathematical puzzles
- INQUIRY-BASED INSTRUCTION: helps students to ask and find answers to thought-provoking questions. Examples include: teachers asking questions and allowing students time to research, experiment, etc. to find the answer; can be math or science-driven (but NOT only limited to those subjects), is not just a worksheet; students are answering open-ended questions
- DIFFERENTIATION: teachers are allocating tasks based on student abilities to ensure all students are moving forward and not being left behind. Examples include: worksheets with varying degrees of complexity, work stations based on needs (may also be called centers), using iReady data (students are already grouped based on needs/abilities
- TECHNOLOGY IN THE CLASSROOM: students are able to use technology in various ways to promote engagement in the classroom and drive learning. Examples include: iReady use, Quizlet, using Google Classroom/Forms/Documents/Slides, Plickers, etc.
- BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT: teachers are establishing routines and procedures to outline specific expectations to eliminate student confusion. Students know what is expected and the consequences if expectations are not met. Examples include: reward time, Fun Friday, etc. (based on meeting established expectations), classroom rules/procedures
Contact Information:
Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Philippians 4:9
