Pedagogue Blog

Matthew Lynch published in Child Development

Why EVERY Kid Deserves a Clean Slate

Introduction:

Every child, regardless of their circumstances, deserves a clean slate to begin their lives. As they grow and evolve, they must have the opportunity to learn from their mistakes, cultivate strong moral values, and become responsible citizens. In this article, we will explore why giving a child a clean slate is crucial for their personal development and overall well-being.

1) The Power of Forgiveness

Forgiveness plays a vital role in offering a child a clean slate. Children need to understand that they will not be condemned or judged based on their actions forever. By granting them forgiveness, we encourage them to view life as an ongoing journey where making mistakes can lead to growth and self-improvement.

2) Developing Resilience

Children who are given the chance to start anew after making mistakes build resilience. They learn to overcome the challenges life throws at them and bounce back from setbacks more effectively. This fosters mental toughness, grit, and the ability to handle adversity in various aspects of life.

3) Reinforcing Accountability

By allowing children the opportunity for a clean slate, we reinforce accountability in their actions. They understand that they not only have the ability to make things right again but also have a responsibility toward themselves and others around them.

4) Encouraging Personal Growth

When offered the chance at redemption, children feel empowered to acknowledge their shortcomings and rectify them constructively. This encourages personal growth and self-awareness – two qualities essential for healthy human development.

5) Cultivating Compassion

Being awarded a clean slate helps children learn the value of compassion toward themselves and others. As they experience empathy from caregivers when given second chances, they are more likely to extend it towards people in similar situations.

6) Boosting Self-Esteem

Repeated negative feedback or punishment without an opportunity for redemption can harm a child’s self-esteem. Contrarily, providing a clean slate aids in boosting their belief in their abilities and reinforces the notion that they are deserving of love and care, regardless of their past actions or choices.

7) Building Trust

Trust is the foundation of any healthy relationship, and it starts at a young age. When children are given the opportunity to make amends and start fresh, they are more willing to trust their support system and confide in them when facing further challenges.

Conclusion:

Every child deserves a clean slate to ensure they have the best chance at success and can grow into responsible, compassionate, and well-adjusted adults. By providing empathy, encouragement, and opportunities to learn from mistakes without being burdened by them forever, we empower these young individuals to make a difference in the world.

So let’s embrace the idea of giving kids a clean slate – instilling hope, promoting personal growth, and creating an environment that allows everyone to learn from their mistakes and thrive.

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Matthew Lynch published in EdTech & Innovation

If You’re Still Using These 5 Words as a Teacher, It’s Time to Reconsider

Introduction:

As educators, we understand the importance of language in shaping our students’ perceptions and understanding of the world around them. It is essential that teachers constantly evaluate their language choices to ensure they are promoting a positive and inclusive learning environment. Here, we highlight five commonly used words that have negative connotations and provide suggestions on how teachers can reconsider and adapt their language use in the classroom.

1. “Fail”

The word “fail” can have a detrimental impact on students’ motivation, self-esteem, and willingness to take risks in their learning. Young learners, especially, might see failure as the end of their learning journey, rather than an opportunity for growth. Instead, consider using words like “not yet,” “improve,” or “grow” to emphasize that learning is a process and every challenge is an opportunity to sharpen skills.

2. “Shy”

Labeling a student as shy might discourage them from participating in class discussions and sharing their ideas; it also undermines the fact that each learner has unique strengths and weaknesses. To foster increased engagement among introverted students, be mindful of their sensibilities by offering alternative ways for them to express their thoughts, such as through written assignments in class or using anonymous digital platforms.

3. “Talent” or “Gifted”

Ascribing certain abilities purely to talent or natural gifts can inadvertently undermine the value of hard work, perseverance, and practice. It sends a message that only those who possess innate abilities can succeed in certain disciplines like maths or art. Instead of praising one’s talent exclusively, acknowledge the effort put into developing skills and abilities. Use phrases like “I can see that you’ve been working hard on this” or “Your determination is really paying off.”

4. “Boys” & “Girls”

Using gender-specific terms may contribute to reinforcing gender stereotypes in the classroom. When addressing students, strive to eliminate any hint of bias and exclusion by using more inclusive language, such as “students” or “class.” This promotes a more balanced learning environment and creates intentional spaces where every student feels valued and respected.

5. “Just”

This little word might slip into our language without us even realizing it; however, it often conveys implicit judgment when spoken before an instruction or expectation, such as, “just focus” or “just try your best.” Instead of minimizing the challenges that students may face, acknowledge the grit and effort required for the task. Communicate that you believe in their ability to overcome any obstacles they might face.

Conclusion:

Being mindful of the words we choose as educators is essential to creating a supportive and inclusive classroom culture. By reevaluating our language patterns and removing potentially harmful phrases, we can empower and encourage all students to thrive. Keep in mind that self-reflection is an ongoing process – continue to refine your teaching practice and make positive impacts on your students’ learning experiences.

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Matthew Lynch published in Art Education

Halloween Is for Kids. Why Can’t We Celebrate It at School?

Introduction:

Every year, as October 31st draws near, children all around the world look forward to the spooky fun and excitement that Halloween brings. With its origins rooted in ancient Celtic harvest festivals, Halloween has transformed into a day filled with costumes, trick-or-treating, and delicious candy. Yet, despite its importance in popular culture, many schools have chosen to cut Halloween celebrations from their curriculum. But why should this be the case? After all, Halloween is for kids and schools serve our youngest citizens.

The Importance of Halloween in Childhood:

For children, Halloween represents an escape from reality, allowing them to lose themselves within a world of imagination as they don their chosen costume. It promotes creativity and encourages self-expression as kids develop their own unique looks based on their favorite characters or concepts. Additionally, Halloween provides an opportunity for children to engage in social activities outside of school hours, building valuable interpersonal skills and bonds with their peers through communal trick-or-treating.

Inclusion and Sensitivity in School Celebrations:

Many schools argue that the reason behind banning or severely limiting Halloween festivities is due to religious or cultural sensitivity concerns. While it is important to respect the beliefs and customs of every student within diverse school environments, it is essential to recognize that inclusion does not necessarily mean exclusion. Schools can provide alternative activities or celebrations for those who do not wish to participate in Halloween-themed events or educate students about other fall traditions celebrated by different cultures.

Incorporating Educational Benefits:

Opponents of school-based Halloween celebrations may argue that these festivities take away from valuable instructional time that should be devoted solely to academics. However, integrating Halloween themes into lessons can actually enhance learning experiences for students. Teachers can use pumpkin carvings as a creative way to explore symmetry in geometry, assign readings from clasic spooky literature such as Edgar Allan Poe’s works or conduct science experiments incorporating Halloween themes like exploring chemical reactions through glow-in-the-dark slime creations.

Promoting Healthy Balance in School Life:

Schools are not just for academic growth but also serve to inspire a well-rounded and balanced life for children. Allowing students to engage in the whimsical celebration of holidays like Halloween at school helps them build cherished memories, emotional connections, and positive associations with their educational environment. Striking the right balance between academic pursuits and non-academic activities is essential in order to foster a healthy development of social and mental well-being.

Conclusion:

By recognizing the important role that Halloween plays in childhood, schools can adapt their practices to allow students a chance to participate in this unique and exciting holiday. Through a blend of inclusive celebrations, educational integration, and promoting a balanced school life, educators can help create lasting memories for their students. After all, Halloween is for kids – so why shouldn’t they be able to celebrate it within the walls of their schools?

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Matthew Lynch published in Classroom Management

5 Classroom Rules Posters That Every Teacher Needs

Creating a positive and productive learning environment is crucial for any teacher, and the use of classroom rules posters can play a significant role in promoting good behavior and cooperation among students. In this article, we present five must-have classroom rules posters that every teacher should consider utilizing.

1. Be Respectful, Responsible, and Safe

This poster focuses on three core values that are essential for maintaining a well-behaved classroom environment. By reminding students to be respectful of others, take responsibility for their actions, and make safe choices, teachers can foster a sense of mutual understanding and cooperation among their pupils.

2. Raise Your Hand Before Speaking

One essential element of creating an orderly classroom is managing discussions in a way that prevents chaos and provides all students with an equal opportunity to participate. By placing emphasis on raising hands before speaking, this poster encourages students to listen to their peers with patience and respect.

3. Follow Directions the First Time They Are Given

Acquiring the ability to follow instructions is vital for success not only in the classroom but also in life. This poster helps cultivate this skill by encouraging students to pay close attention to directions they receive from their teacher or other authority figures. As a result, class lessons can progress smoothly and efficiently without delays caused by repeated explanations.

4. Be Kind and Help One Another

Promoting kindness within the classroom not only encourages positive interactions among students but also fosters a general sense of community and support. This poster highlights the value of helping fellow classmates, reminding students that they are part of a larger team working towards similar objectives.

5. Keep Your Work Area Clean and Organized

A clutter-free work area is essential for maintaining focus and limiting distractions during class time. This poster asks students to take responsibility for their personal space, ensuring that materials are organized and easy to find when needed. Encouraging cleanliness also contributes to creating a pleasant environment for everyone within the classroom.

In conclusion, these five classroom rules posters provide simple yet effective guidelines for students of all ages. By incorporating these rules into daily instruction, teachers enhance their classroom environment and promote healthy interactions among classmates, contributing to a successful learning experience for all involved.

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Matthew Lynch published in English Education

We Can’t Wait for These 2018 Picture Books

Picture books hold a special place in the hearts of children and adults alike. They combine stunning artwork with captivating stories that can capture the imagination and inspire the love of reading in young minds. As we eagerly anticipate the new releases for 2018, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most anticipated picture books that promise to enchant children everywhere.

1. The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld

The Rabbit Listened is a beautifully illustrated, heartwarming story about empathy and friendship. When a child’s tower of blocks comes crashing down, several animals try to help by offering advice and solutions. However, it’s ultimately Rabbit’s quiet presence and attentive listening that brings solace to the child.

2. The Word Collector by Peter H. Reynolds

This delightful picture book follows Jerome, a young boy who loves words like no other. He collects them in every form – overheard conversations, scribbled notes, words from favorite songs – you name it! As his collection grows, Jerome learns powerful lessons about self-expression and how words can be used to create magic on a page.

3. The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson

In this touching story, a young girl named Angelina starts school and feels like she doesn’t fit in with her classmates. Acclaimed author Jacqueline Woodson explores themes of identity, diversity, and courage as Angelina discovers the value of her own uniqueness and the commonalities that bring people together.

4. Hello Lighthouse by Sophie Blackall

This stunning picture book transports readers to a lighthouse on a remote island where they’ll follow the daily life of its steadfast keeper. From maintaining the light to battling harsh storms, Blackall’s lyrical language and beautiful illustrations create an immersive experience that captures the magic of lighthouses.

5. Julián is a Mermaid by Jessica Love

This groundbreaking picture book recounts the story of a boy named Julián who discovers his newfound love for mermaids. With vibrant illustrations showcasing the power of imagination, Jessica Love’s debut captures the heart and spirit of self-expression and encourages readers to embrace their own identities.

These are just some of the exciting picture books that await us in 2018. With stories of friendship, courage, and self-discovery, these tales are sure to engage young readers and create memories that will last a lifetime. Happy reading!

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Matthew Lynch published in IT Infrastructure and Management

A Teacher’s Guide to Working With IT Staff

Introduction

In today’s technology-driven world, teachers and IT staff play critical roles in the educational landscape. IT staff ensures that the technology infrastructure, devices, and services required for efficient teaching and learning are in place and functional. As a teacher, knowing how to work effectively with your school’s IT staff can not only make your job easier but also improve the overall learning experience for your students. This article provides a practical guide to help teachers establish productive relationships with their school’s IT staff.

1. Understand Your IT Staff’s Roles and Responsibilities

Knowing what your IT staff is responsible for can help you set realistic expectations about their capacity and availability to assist with your needs. While specific responsibilities may vary greatly depending on the size and structure of your school, some common roles include:

– System administrators

– Network administrators

– Technical support specialists

– Educational technologists

2. Communicate Effectively

Clear communication is vital when working with your school’s IT staff. When making a request or reporting an issue, it’s important to:

– Be specific: Clearly describe the problem you are experiencing or the help you need

– Be concise: Your message should be brief yet informative

– Use appropriate terminology: This will help avoid confusion or misinterpretations

3. Plan Ahead

Understand that IT professionals handle many tasks and projects daily. If you know that you will need their assistance or face technology-related challenges in the future, communicate your needs well in advance to ensure proper planning.

4. Learn Basic Troubleshooting Skills

IT staff appreciate teachers who actively try to solve minor technical issues before requesting assistance. Learn simple troubleshooting techniques such as restarting devices or checking cables – it might save both parties time and effort.

5. Show Gratitude

Appreciate the hard work and efforts of your school’s IT staff by expressing gratitude when they assist you with any issue or concern. A simple “thank you” goes a long way in building positive working relationships.

6. Attend Technology Trainings

Many schools offer technology training sessions for teachers to learn about new tools, devices, or software. Attend these training sessions to increase your knowledge and enhance your technical skills.

7. Collaborate with Educational Technologists

Educational technologists can be a valuable resource for teachers. They can assist you in finding innovative ways to integrate technology into your lessons, ensuring that your approach aligns with curriculum goals and learning objectives.

8. Be Patient

It’s crucial to understand that IT staff have many responsibilities and often manage multiple requests simultaneously. If they haven’t addressed your issue immediately, be patient and trust that they are working on it.

Conclusion

Establishing a positive relationship with your school’s IT staff can result in countless benefits for both you and your students. By following this guide, you will not only foster strong partnerships but also contribute to effective educational experiences rooted in contemporary technology trends.

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Matthew Lynch published in Math Education

Use These Easy Homemade Spinners to Practice Fractions

Introduction:

Practicing fractions can be a tedious task, especially for young learners. Finding engaging and hands-on ways often makes learning simple and enjoyable. One effective way to achieve this is by using homemade spinners. Spinners are not only educational but also fun and interactive for children. In this article, we will discuss how you can create easy homemade spinners and use them to practice fractions.

Materials You’ll Need:

1. Cardstock or thick paper

2. Markers or colored pencils

3. Scissors

4. A paper clip

5. A pencil or small wooden dowel (for spinning)

Step-by-Step Guide to Make a Fraction Spinner:

Step 1: Cut a Circle

Cut out a circle from the cardstock or thick paper. The size is up to you, but we recommend a diameter of around 6 inches for ease of use.

Step 2: Divide into Sections

Using a marker or colored pencil, divide the circle into equally-sized sections, like a pie chart. Each section should represent a fraction corresponding to the number of sections you’ve created (e.g., if you have 8 sections, each will represent 1/8).

Step 3: Label the Sections

Write the fraction in each section using the marker or colored pencil. Be sure to use different colors for each fraction to make it visually appealing and easier for kids to differentiate the various fractions.

Step 4: Create the Spinner

Pierce the center of the circle with a sharp point (e.g., tip of the scissors). Place the paper clip onto the circle with one end on top of the center hole, while the other end rests on your spinning surface like an arrowhead. Insert the pencil or small dowel through the center hole and paper clip loop, ensuring it’s loose enough for easy spinning.

Activities to Practice Fractions with the Spinner:

Activity 1: Simple Fraction Recognition

Let your child spin the spinner and see which fraction it lands on. Ask them to say the fraction out loud and write it down. Repeat as needed – this activity helps reinforce fraction recognition.

Activity 2: Comparing Fractions

Set up two spinners with the same or different fractions. Have the child spin both and compare which fraction is larger or smaller. This teaches kids to analyze and compare fractions quickly, enhancing their mental calculations.

Activity 3: Fraction Addition/Subtraction

To perform this activity, use two spinners with similar fractions (e.g., halves, thirds, and sixths). Instruct the child to spin both and add (or subtract) the two fractions shown; then let them solve it using their learned techniques of adding or subtracting fractions.

Conclusion:

Easy homemade spinners provide an engaging way for kids of all ages to practice working with fractions. By creating these personalized tools, you are not only teaching children valuable math skills but also allowing them to enjoy learning in a fun and interactive manner. So grab some cardstock, markers, a paper clip, and a pencil – it’s time to make learning fractions exciting!

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Matthew Lynch published in Teachers

25 Must-Have Classroom Cleaning Supplies (Trust Us, You Need These!)

As a teacher or school staff member, maintaining a clean and healthy environment in your classroom is crucial. A well-organized and tidy space can contribute to better concentration and overall well-being for both students and teachers. Here are 25 must-have classroom cleaning supplies that you need to keep your learning space in tip-top shape!

1. Disinfecting Wipes: Perfect for quickly wiping down desks, chairs, and other high-touch surfaces.

2. Hand Sanitizer: Keep a bottle at the front of the room so students can use it upon entering and exiting.

3. Microfiber Cloths: These cloths are excellent for wiping down whiteboards, computers, and other delicate surfaces.

4. All-Purpose Cleaner: An essential item for cleaning a variety of surfaces, from countertops to windows.

5. Glass Cleaner: Keep your windows and glass surfaces sparkling clean with a streak-free cleaner.

6. Vacuum Cleaner: A good vacuum will pick up dust, dirt, and debris from carpets and hard flooring.

7. Carpet Spot Remover: Quickly tackles spills and stains on carpets.

8. Dustpan & Brush: Ideal for spot cleaning small messes on hard surfaces.

9. Broom & Mop: Sweep away dirt and mop up spills with these essential tools.

10. Air Freshener: Keep your classroom smelling fresh by using air fresheners to neutralize odors.

11. Trash Bags: Choose sturdy bags that resist tearing to prevent messy spills during cleanup.

12. Recycling Bins: Encourage eco-friendly practices with clearly marked recycling bins for paper, plastic, and metal waste.

13. Paper Towels: Have plenty on hand for quick cleanup jobs or drying hands after washing.

14. Antibacterial Soap: Promote hand hygiene by providing antibacterial soap in the bathroom or at a designated handwashing station.

15. Rubber Gloves: Keep a pair on hand for handling harsh chemicals or messy projects.

16. Chalk Eraser: A quality eraser is important for keeping chalkboards clean and free from debris.

17. Whiteboard Eraser: Keep your whiteboard looking new with a soft, easy-to-clean eraser.

18. Spray Bottle: Fill with water or cleaning solutions for easy application to surfaces.

19. Caddy or Tote: Organize and transport cleaning supplies with ease using a handy caddy or tote.

20. Disinfectant Spray: Ensure all surfaces are germ-free with a high-quality disinfectant spray.

21. Sponges: Versatile and durable, sponges make the job of cleaning easier and more efficient.

22. Floor Cleaner: A gentle but effective cleaner will keep your floors looking their best without damaging finishes.

23. Upholstery Cleaner: Clean and freshen up fabric-covered chairs with a suitable upholstery cleaner.

24. Desk Organizers: Keep papers, pens, and other essentials neat and easily accessible.

25. Storage Bins & Shelves: Use bins and shelves to store supplies, games, and other materials that can clutter the environment.

By equipping your classroom with these 25 essential cleaning supplies, you’ll be able to create a sanctuary of cleanliness and organization that benefits both teachers and students! So go ahead, take control of your learning environment, and foster the best conditions for success!

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Matthew Lynch published in Classroom Management

27 All-Star Ideas for a Sports-Themed Classroom

1. Trophy Display Shelf: Showcase student achievements with a trophy display shelf in the classroom.

2. Team Banner Display: Hang team banners on the walls to celebrate school sports teams and their accomplishments.

3. Locker Room Cubbies: Implement locker room-style cubbies for students to store their supplies and personal items.

4. DIY Stadium Seating: Build stadium-style seating to encourage collaboration and communication among students during group activities.

5. Sports Field Rug: Add comfort and style to your classroom with a sports field rug.

6. Coach’s Corner: Set up a space for one-on-one meetings, resembling a coach’s office with sports memorabilia.

7. Sports Equipment Storage Rack: Create an organized storage spot for recreational sports equipment used during breaks or physical education activities.

8. Scoreboard Attendance Tracker: Design a scoreboard-style attendance tracker to encourage punctuality and daily engagement.

9. Game Plan Whiteboard: Utilize a large whiteboard as a game plan for upcoming lessons, activities, and assignments.

10. Jersey Number Seating Chart: Use jersey numbers on the desks or chairs to assign seating arrangements.

11. Inspirational Sports Quotes Posters: Hang motivational posters with famous sports quotes to inspire students daily.

12. Personalized Locker Tags: Have personalized locker-themed name tags for each student on their desk or cubby area.

13. Classroom Cheerleaders Board: Recognize classroom helpers and leaders with designated cheerleader spots on a bulletin board.

14. Fitness Breaks: Integrate short exercise breaks during class time to encourage movement, focus, and energy rejuvenation.

15. Team Mascot Reading Corner: Set up a reading corner with beanbag chairs, books, and other resources dedicated in honor of the school’s mascot or team colors.

16. PE Warm-Up Activities Cards Deck: Create an activity card deck filled with quick warm-up exercises for students to get their minds and bodies moving into learning mode.

17. March Madness Math: Engage students with sports-related math activities, like collaborative bracket-building to practice probability skills.

18. Writing Prompts on Sports: Incorporate writing prompts related to sports topics, motivatonal stories or student role models.

19. Sports-Themed Word Wall: Create a word wall decorated with sports imagery to display vocabulary words, sport jargon and terminology.

20. Athletic Team-Building Activities: Implement team-building activities that encourage communication, collaboration, and confidence among students.

21. Hall of Fame Athlete Biographies: Dedicate a bulletin board to short biographies of famous athletes who have excelled in academics and sports.

22. Sideline Snack Area: Set up a snack zone in the classroom decorated like a game-day concession stand stocked with healthy snacks for brain fuel.

23. Classroom Olympics: Organize a year-round series of educational games and activities based on Olympic events.

24. Growth Mindset Sports Psychology Lessons: Teach students about the power of growth mindset through sports psychology concepts like resilience, grit, and determination

25. Goal-Setting Huddle: Allow students to write down their goals periodically throughout the year in a designated Goal-Setting area in the classroom

26. Sports Movie Fridays: Show motivational sports films that promote positive messages on Fridays or as reward for meeting classroom goals collectively.

27. Memorabilia Wall Gallery: Invite students to bring in their own sports memorabilia or souvenirs, such as autographs or event tickets, to contribute to an ever-growing wall gallery in the classroom.

Teachers who integrate these 27 All-Star ideas into their sports-themed classrooms will foster engaging learning environments that teach teamwork, drive and perseverance; attributes predominant amongst great athletes.

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Matthew Lynch published in Professional Development

How to Use Social Media as Teacher PD

Introduction

Professional development for teachers is not only about attending workshops and seminars. With the evolving world of technology, social media has emerged as a valuable tool for professional growth, learning and networking. This article will guide teachers on how to effectively use social media platforms to enhance their professional development.

1. Choose the right platforms

There are numerous social media platforms available, each with its unique features and target audience. Identify the platforms that will be most useful to you as a teacher, such as Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram or Pinterest. Select those which align with your professional goals and interests.

2. Set clear goals and objectives

Before diving into the world of social media, set your professional development goals. Identify your skills or subject areas where you want to improve and use social media to achieve those goals. For example, if you want to learn more about integrating technology in the classroom, follow experts in this field to stay updated with the latest trends.

3. Follow relevant accounts

Find and follow educators, organizations, researchers, or institutions that are relevant to your field of expertise. Doing so will ensure your feed is full of interesting content related to your area of interest and pedagogy.

4. Participate in online discussions and groups

Take an active role in online discussions by engaging with colleagues around the globe who share your interests. Join designated groups on platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn where educators exchange ideas and resources on specific topics related to teaching strategies or curricula.

5. Utilize Twitter chats

Many educational Twitter chats occur regularly using predetermined hashtags that create live conversations among teachers on various subjects. These chats allow you to ask questions, share insights and connect with like-minded professionals worldwide.

6. Create an online Personal Learning Network (PLN)

Building a PLN involves connecting with other educators globally through sharing resources, knowledge, experiences and ideas on various teaching-related subjects. This helps in growing your professional network and allows you to learn from a diverse range of fellow educators.

7. Curate and share content

Sharing relevant content with your followers helps in establishing yourself as a thought leader and continues the process of learning not just for yourself but for others too. Use the platforms to share articles, blog posts, videos, or infographics that you have found valuable as a teacher.

8. Reflect and act on what you learn

As you engage with social media for professional development, consistently evaluate your progress towards your goals. Apply ideas and insights you have gained through social media interactions back into your classroom practice, and continuously refine your teaching methods based on the feedback.

Conclusion

While social media cannot replace traditional professional development efforts, it offers numerous opportunities for teachers to grow, learn and network on their own terms. If used effectively, social media can be a powerful tool assisting teachers in staying abreast of the latest educational research and practices while also expanding their professional network with like-minded professionals across the globe. Embrace social media as an integral part of your Teacher PD journey and witness its potential in transforming your teaching career.

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Matthew Lynch published in Middle School Education

How I Teach My Middle School Students Financial Literacy in a Way That Stays With Them

In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving world, it is more important than ever to equip our youth with the proper tools to navigate through the complex realm of personal finance. As a middle school teacher, I have made it my mission to educate students on financial literacy in a way that not only instills knowledge but also stays with them for years to come. In this article, I will share my methods for creating a lasting impact on my middle school students.

1. Start with the basics

Before diving into any complicated financial concepts, I always begin by building a solid foundation of basic financial principles. Some concepts that I emphasize include: budgeting, saving, understanding expenses, and distinguishing between needs and wants. Once students grasp these fundamental ideas, they can build upon this knowledge by exploring more complex topics such as investing and debt management.

2. Make it interactive and fun

To ensure that my students truly engage with the material being presented, I focus on incorporating interactive activities and games into our lessons. Financial literacy does not have to be dull or boring! By making concepts relatable and fun, students will be more likely to retain information through experiential learning. Examples of interactive activities include budget simulations, stock market games, and financial decision-making exercises.

3. Utilize real-life scenarios

One of the most effective ways to teach financial literacy is by illustrating how key concepts are utilized in real-life situations. This helps students understand the practicality of these lessons in their everyday lives. By demonstrating how budgeting can help them save for future purchases or why understanding debt is crucial for making responsible decisions, they can develop a deeper appreciation for the importance of financial planning and responsibilities.

4. Involve parents in the process

Teaching financial literacy does not solely rely on what is covered in the classroom – it also requires reinforcement from home. I encourage parents to discuss financial matters with their children, possibly by giving them an allowance and encouraging responsible spending habits. Working together as a team helps solidify the foundation of financial education and prepares students for a future of making sound financial choices.

5. Continual reinforcement and application

Financial literacy is an ongoing process, not a one-time lesson. As a teacher, I aim to continuously incorporate financial principles in my daily lessons across various subjects. For example, when teaching math, I often include word problems focused on budgeting or investment returns to keep these concepts fresh in students’ minds.

By combining these strategies, I have discovered a winning formula for imparting lasting financial literacy knowledge to my middle school students. Through engaging lessons, real-life examples, parental involvement, and ongoing reinforcement, my students are armed with the tools they need to navigate their financial futures with confidence and success.

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Matthew Lynch published in English

26 Beautiful and Inspiring Spring Poems for the Classroom

Introduction

As the days grow longer and warmer, and nature begins to awaken from its winter slumber, there is a renewed sense of rejuvenation and vitality in the air. Spring is a season of growth, renewal, and beauty, making it the perfect time to introduce your students to inspiring poetry that captures the essence of this magical time. In this article, we present 26 beautiful and inspiring spring poems that will make a great addition to any classroom.

1. “Loveliest of Trees” by A.E. Housman

2. “Spring” by William Blake

3. “Lines Written in Early Spring” by William Wordsworth

4. “A Light Exists in Spring” by Emily Dickinson

5. “The Trees” by Philip Larkin

6. “Today” by Billy Collins

7. “April Rain Song” by Langston Hughes

8. “To Spring” by Robert Herrick

9. “In Just-” by E.E. Cummings

10. “Spring Quiet” by Christina Rossetti

11. “The Enkindled Spring” by D.H. Lawrence

12. “Song of Solomon 2:11-13”, an excerpt from the Bible’s Old Testament

13. “A Prayer in Spring” by Robert Frost

14. “Spring and Fall” by Gerard Manley Hopkins

15. “Nothing Gold Can Stay” by Robert Frost

16. “Spring Morning” by A.A.Milne

17. “The Great Lover” by Rupert Brooke

18. “Easter Wings” by George Herbert

19. “Awakening” by James Wright

20. “Miracle Fair” by Wislawa Szymborska

21. “Daisy Time” by Marjorie Pickthall

22. “April Love” by Ernest Dowson

23. “It’s Spring” by Ntozake Shange

24. “The Flower Garden” by William Bryant

25. “A Meeting” by Robert Browning

26. “Spring” by Edna St.Vincent Millay

Each of these spring poems offers a unique perspective on the season, exploring themes such as renewal, beauty, and the fleeting nature of time. By sharing these inspiring works with your students, you not only expose them to a variety of poetic styles and voices but also help them develop an appreciation for the natural world.

In conclusion, incorporating these lovely spring poems into your curriculum can create an atmosphere of creativity and inspiration in your classroom. As your students delve into the verses and metaphors that capture the essence of spring, they will surely be encouraged to explore their own creative expression, developing a deeper connection with the world around them and the power of poetry itself.

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