This chapter explains how to implement purposeful puzzles, a helpful Differentiated Instruction support for students who might fidget a lot during class or need to be “doing something” when they are listening or participating in a classroom discussion. Read More
Imagine the possibilities for changing student attitudes and perspectives if students were invited not only to share their fascinations but also to serve as classroom experts and teachers in those areas. This quick excerpt provides ideas for building classroom expertise via student interests and passions. Read More
Today's classrooms have changed significantly since many educators received their formal training. As inclusive classrooms become the norm, many teachers are hungry for insights that will help them ensure students with various abilities make strides individually while their classes progress as a whole. Here are five fresh approaches you can apply to create successful inclusive classrooms. Read More
In this article from IDA's Perspectives on Language and Literacy, Jennifer Wells Greene, Ph.D., author of Academic Vocabulary for Middle School Students, describes the vocabulary needs of middle school students, with a focus on academic vocabulary. Read More
Adapted from Engagement of Every Child in the Preschool Classroom, this colorful sample floor plan lays out for preschool educators one option in using their space efficiently and effectively to maximize student learning. Sidebar annotations provide the research-based reasoning behind this proposed classroom set-up. Read More
Zones are a great way to organize centers in your early childhood classroom! Download this tip sheet to get 6 basic rules of thumb for setting up zones successfully and making them work for you and your students. Read More
Here's a helpful chart on which least-intrusive adaptations early childhood teams should make in certain situations so that young students can most benefit from play time. Read More
Any preschool teacher can tell you that behavior is critical to a positive learning and play environment. Fostering young children's social-emotional development not only smooths out the preschool day for everyone, but also helps children do better later in school and life. Here are 4 tools you can use to make sure your program is implementing best practices, supporting children's social skills, and addressing challenging behaviors. Read More
