5 Ways to Empower English Language Learners

In American K-12 public schools, English language learners (ELLs) make up over 10% of students. 10% may not sound like much, but that’s over 5 million students!

Why Middle and High School Teachers Care about the Science of Reading and Transitional Literacy

While most early literacy development occurs in elementary school, teachers in middle and high schools continue shaping students' reading abilities, comprehension strategies, and critical thinking skills. By focusing on the science of reading, these teachers reinforce foundational literacy skills...

Transitional Literacy and the Science of Reading in Grades 6-12

Transitional literacy focuses on bridging the gap between basic reading skills and more advanced literacy skills necessary for success during middle and high school. While the science of reading lays the groundwork by equipping students with the necessary skills, transitional literacy focuses on...

Reconsidering Homework

Homework is unfair. 

Empowering Students for Future Success through Formative Assessment Strategies

With so much heated debate over the concept of teaching to the test, it almost seems counterintuitive to ask teachers to assess their students even more. However, assessments are the only way to discover if students are actually learning anything, and when done correctly, they can really help...

Scaffolding Skills and Writing in AP U.S. History

One of the greatest rewards of teaching history is when students can show that they can make effective arguments supported by historical evidence. From a practical point of view, argumentation is at the heart of the free response section of the AP® exam. This can be particularly difficult with...

Graphic Literary Analysis Presentations

When it comes to assessments in English classrooms, many teachers fall in the routine of short answer questions, multiple choice questions, and essays. Rinse then repeat. While this can often be tedious for a teacher, imagine how your students feel.

Changes to the AP® Psychology Curriculum

The world of AP Psychology is going through a curricular change. While this has been a works in progress for a number of years, not that the changes are here let’s discuss five upcoming changes to the course that will be reflected in the 2025 AP Psychology exam.

5 Reasons to Use a Student Engagement Rubric

Several years ago, I began using a 4-point Student Engagement rubric for assignments that were either early in the knowledge acquisition period or for process-type assignments. My Student Engagement Rubric is below: 

How To Manage Your Classroom And Keep Your Patience

Here’s my one caveat, if you’re bothered by a lot and expect quiet student perfection, this might not be the classroom management plan for you. But if you want to share a mutually-owned space with students who crave independence, yet want help through tough tasks, this might help you start your...