Teachers

Summer is winding down, and it’s time to gear up for the exciting new school year! One of the best ways to get students engaged and excited about learning is through read alouds. Whether you’re a teacher or a parent, here are 10 perfect back-to-school read alouds that will captivate young minds and set the stage for a successful academic year.

1. “The Kissing Hand” by Audrey Penn: This beloved classic follows a little raccoon named Chester as he overcomes separation anxiety on his first day of school.

2. “First Day Jitters” by Julie Danneberg: In this funny and relatable story, Sarah Jane Hartwell dreads her first day at a new school, only to discover a surprising twist.

3. “The Name Jar” by Yangsook Choi: Unpack themes of diversity, acceptance, and the power of identity with this heartwarming tale about a girl who is hesitant to share her Korean name at school.

4. “The Recess Queen” by Alexis O’Neill: This empowering read aloud teaches kids about friendship, bullying, and the importance of treating others with kindness and respect.

5. “Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten” by Joseph Slate: Join Miss Bindergarten and her diverse group of animal students as they prepare for the first day of school in this delightful rhyming book.

6. “Chrysanthemum” by Kevin Henkes: Explore the impact of bullying and the importance of self-acceptance through the story of a young mouse named Chrysanthemum.

7. “The Day You Begin” by Jacqueline Woodson: Celebrate individuality and the power of embracing differences with this poetic read aloud that encourages students to find the beauty in their own stories.
8. “Wemberly Worried” by Kevin Henkes: Address anxiety and coping mechanisms with Wemberly, a little mouse who learns to navigate her worries on her first day of school.

9. “Library Lion” by Michelle Knudsen: Discover the magical world of libraries and the power of breaking the rules for a good cause in this heartwarming tale about a lion who loves storytime.

10. “The Dot” by Peter H. Reynolds: Encourage creativity and self-expression with Vashti, a girl who discovers her artistic potential and inspires others along the way.

These 10 perfect back-to-school read alouds offer valuable lessons and foster a love for learning in young students. Whether you choose to read them in the classroom or at home, they are sure to make the start of the school year a memorable and educational experience. Happy reading!

1. The cheetah is the fastest land animal, capable of running up to 70 miles per hour!
2. The blue whale is the largest animal on Earth, measuring about 98 feet long.
3. Elephants are known for their exceptional memory and can recognize themselves in a mirror.
4. The giraffe has the longest neck among land animals, allowing it to graze from tall trees.
5. Dolphins are highly intelligent marine mammals that communicate using a series of clicks and whistles.
6. Penguins are expert swimmers and can reach speeds of up to 22 mph in the water.
7. Frogs use their long, sticky tongues to catch insects and other small prey.
8. The chameleon has the ability to change its color to blend in with its surroundings.
9. The kangaroo is a marsupial that carries its young in a pouch on its belly.
10. The polar bear is perfectly adapted to survive in cold environments and has a thick layer of blubber for insulation.
11. The honey bee performs a vital role in pollination, helping plants reproduce.
12. The octopus has the ability to change its skin texture and color to camouflage itself from predators.
13. The anteater uses its long, sticky tongue to eat ants and termites.
14. The peacock is known for its beautiful and colorful feathers, which it displays during courtship.
15. The tiger is the largest big cat species and is capable of jumping distances of up to 33 feet.
16. The red-eyed tree frog has large red eyes and is an excellent climber.
17. The bald eagle is a symbol of the United States and can spot prey from two miles away.
18. The hummingbird is the only bird that can hover in mid-air and fly backward.

These are just a few of the amazing animals that exist in our world. Learning about them can be both entertaining and educational for kids. Enjoy exploring the animal kingdom!

 

Zoom has become an essential tool for both educators and students alike. With its user-friendly interface and powerful features, it has revolutionized the way we conduct online classes. In this article, we will explore some important tips and tricks for teachers to make the most out of Zoom and enhance their online teaching experience.

1. Familiarize Yourself with Zoom:

Before diving into the various features of Zoom, it is important to get acquainted with the basic functionalities. Take some time to explore the platform and understand how to join meetings, schedule classes, share your screen, and manage participant controls. Familiarizing yourself with Zoom’s interface will help you navigate through different options effortlessly.

2. Create Engaging Presentations:

One of the advantages of Zoom is the ability to share your screen and deliver interactive presentations. Utilize this feature to its fullest potential by incorporating multimedia elements such as videos, audio clips, and slideshows. This will help to keep your students engaged and make the learning experience enjoyable.

3. Utilize Breakout Rooms:

Breakout rooms are an excellent tool for facilitating group discussions and collaborative activities in an online environment. Divide your students into smaller groups and assign them specific tasks or topics to discuss. This promotes active learning and encourages peer interaction.

4. Use Polls and Quizzes:

To gauge student understanding and gather feedback, take advantage of Zoom’s polling feature. Conduct short quizzes or ask multiple-choice questions to assess comprehension. Polls can also be used to survey students’ opinions or preferences on certain topics, creating a more interactive and engaging learning environment.

5. Record and Share Sessions:

Zoom allows you to record your sessions for future reference or for students who may have missed the class. Recording classes can also be beneficial for revision purposes. After recording, you can upload the session to a cloud storage platform or a learning management system for easy access.

6. Implement Security Measures:

To ensure a safe and secure online learning environment, familiarize yourself with Zoom’s security settings. Set up a meeting password, enable waiting rooms, and utilize the participant and screen sharing controls effectively. Educate your students about internet safety and the importance of following proper online etiquette.

7. Encourage Communication:

Communication is key in any educational setting. Encourage students to ask questions, participate in discussions, and provide feedback. Consider using Zoom’s chat feature to address queries or conduct quick polls during the class. This promotes a collaborative learning environment and enhances student engagement.

These are just a few tips to help you get started with using Zoom for online teaching. As you explore the platform further, you will discover additional features that can enrich your virtual classroom experience. Embrace the power of Zoom and make the most out of this versatile tool to create an engaging and interactive learning environment for your students.

In this article, we will explore 15 amazing educational virtual field trips that can provide students with unique and enriching learning experiences from the comfort of their own homes. These virtual field trips offer a wide range of subjects and destinations, allowing students to explore the world without leaving their classrooms.

1. The Louvre Museum, Paris: Take a virtual tour of one of the world’s most famous art museums. Students can view famous artworks like the Mona Lisa and learn about art history.

2. National Museum of Natural History, Washington, D.C.: Explore the exhibits and collections of this renowned museum, including the Hall of Mammals and the Hall of Human Origins.

3. NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, Florida: Go on a virtual tour of NASA’s spaceport and learn about space exploration, rockets, and the history of space missions.

4. The Great Wall of China: Walk along the iconic Great Wall and learn about its history and significance in Chinese culture.

5. San Diego Zoo, California: Meet various animals through live cams and educational videos, while learning about their habitats and conservation efforts.

6. Ancient Rome: Step back in time and discover the ancient city of Rome, exploring famous landmarks like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum.

7. The White House, Washington, D.C.: Take a virtual tour of the residence and workplace of the President of the United States, learning about its history and significance.

8. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia: Dive into one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems and discover the marine life that inhabits this iconic coral reef.

9. Ellis Island, New York: Learn about the experiences of immigrants who arrived in the United States through this historical gateway, exploring the immigration process and the American Dream.

10. The British Museum, London: Virtually explore its vast collection of art and artifacts from different civilizations and time periods around the world.

11. Machu Picchu, Peru: Visit this ancient Incan city nestled in the Andes Mountains and learn about its unique architecture and cultural significance.

12. The Sistine Chapel, Vatican City: Take a virtual tour of this magnificent chapel and appreciate Michelangelo’s masterpieces, including the famous ceiling frescoes.

13. The Galápagos Islands, Ecuador: Explore the diverse ecosystem and unique wildlife of this archipelago that served as inspiration for Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution.

15. The International Space Station: Discover what living and working in space is like through virtual tours and videos, learning about astronauts’ daily routines and experiments conducted on the ISS.
16. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York: Delve into the world of art and history by exploring the extensive collections and exhibitions of this renowned museum.

These virtual field trips offer students the chance to learn about various subjects while providing an immersive and engaging educational experience. Whether it’s art, history, science, or nature, students can broaden their horizons and gain knowledge from the comfort of their own homes. So, embark on these virtual adventures and let the learning begin!

Introduction:

Mathematics can be a challenging subject for many students, but thanks to the advancement of technology, there are now numerous websites that make learning math a fun and engaging experience. Whether you’re a teacher looking for resources or a student wanting to improve your math skills, these 16 awesome websites are here to help you excel in math. Read on to discover some amazing online platforms that can easily enhance your math education.

1. Khan Academy (www.khanacademy.org)

Khan Academy is a well-known educational platform offering free math lessons and interactive exercises for learners of all ages. With its comprehensive math curriculum and personalized learning features, Khan Academy has become a go-to resource for students and educators worldwide.

2. Math Playground (www.mathplayground.com)

Math Playground provides a wide variety of math games, puzzles, and activities that are not only educational but also entertaining. Students can practice various math concepts while having fun at the same time.

3. IXL (www.ixl.com)

IXL is an online learning platform that covers a broad range of subjects, including math. It offers interactive practice questions and gives real-time feedback to help students improve their skills.

4. Prodigy (www.prodigygame.com)

Prodigy is a game-based learning platform that turns math into an exciting adventure. Students can engage in math battles, earn rewards, and level up their skills while exploring a virtual world.

5. Mathway (www.mathway.com)

Mathway is a handy tool that solves math problems step-by-step. Whether you’re struggling with algebra, trigonometry, or calculus, Mathway can be your reliable math assistant.

6. Desmos (www.desmos.com)

Desmos is an advanced graphing calculator that allows users to plot functions, create interactive graphs, and explore various mathematical concepts visually.

7. Coolmath.com (www.coolmath.com)

Coolmath.com offers math lessons, games, and puzzles designed to make learning math enjoyable. It covers a wide range of topics and provides clear explanations that are easy to understand.

8. Math-Drills (www.math-drills.com)

Math-Drills provides an extensive collection of printable math worksheets for various grade levels. Students can practice different math skills, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

9. Mathletics (www.mathletics.com)

Mathletics is an online platform that combines math learning with gamification. Students can compete in math challenges and earn points while improving their math abilities.

10. Aplusclick (www.aplusclick.org)

Aplusclick features a vast collection of math problems, puzzles, and IQ quizzes that help students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. It offers challenges suitable for different age groups.

11. BrainPOP (www.brainpop.com/math)

BrainPOP offers animated videos and interactive activities to teach various math topics. It provides engaging and accessible content that can enhance students’ understanding of mathematical concepts.

12. Math.com (www.math.com)

Math.com offers a wealth of math resources, including practice problems, study tips, and interactive lessons. It covers a wide range of math topics and provides useful tools for students and educators.

13. National Library of Virtual Manipulatives (www.nlvm.usu.edu)

The National Library of Virtual Manipulatives provides interactive simulations and virtual manipulatives that allow students to explore mathematical concepts through hands-on activities.

14. MathisFun (www.mathisfun.com)

MathisFun offers clear explanations, interactive games, and puzzles to make learning math enjoyable and engaging. It covers a wide range of math topics and caters to learners of all ages.

15. Math Goodies (www.mathgoodies.com)

Math Goodies provides interactive math lessons, worksheets, and games for students, as well as resources for teachers. It focuses on building a strong foundation in math concepts.

16. EdHelper (www.edhelper.com/math)

EdHelper offers a vast collection of math resources, including worksheets, lesson plans, and educational materials. It covers various math topics and provides resources for both teachers and parents.

Conclusion:

These 16 awesome websites offer a diverse range of resources and tools to help students excel in math. Whether you’re looking for interactive games, virtual manipulatives, or step-by-step problem-solving assistance, these websites have got you covered. By utilizing these online platforms, both teachers and students can enhance their math education and make learning math an engaging and enjoyable experience.

1. 1. Addition War

This game is played like traditional War, except instead of comparing cards based on their numerical value, players must add the values of their cards together. The player with the highest sum wins the round.

1. 2. Fraction Flip

In this game, players take turns flipping cards and creating fractions using the numbers on the cards. The goal is to correctly order the fractions from least to greatest.

1. 3. Number Line Rummy

Players must form sequences of numbers in ascending or descending order by collecting cards and arranging them on a number line. The player with the longest and most accurate sequence wins the game.

1. 4. Multiplication Memory

This memory game requires players to match multiplication equations with their correct products. It helps students practice their multiplication facts while having fun.

1. 5. Fraction War

Similar to Addition War, students compare fractions instead of numbers. The player with the highest fraction takes the cards. This game helps reinforce the concept of comparing fractions.

1. 6. Place Value Go Fish

Players take turns asking for cards that represent different place values. The objective is to collect sets of cards that represent the same value, such as 100s or 10s.

1. 7. Probability Poker

Using a deck of cards, players calculate the probability of various poker hands. This game encourages strategic thinking and understanding of mathematical probability.

1. 8. Division Bingo

Players solve division problems to mark off numbers on their bingo cards. The first player to complete a line or a blackout wins the game and practices division skills.

1. 9. Geometry War

Players compare geometric shapes based on their properties, such as number of sides or angles. The player who correctly identifies the relation wins the round.

1. 10. Order of Operations Uno

This game combines the rules of Uno with practicing the order of operations. Players must perform the math operations on their cards in the correct order to play them.

1. 11. Skip Counting Go Fish

Players practice skip counting by asking for cards that follow a specific counting pattern, such as counting by twos or fives.

1. 12. Decimals War

In this variation of War, players compare decimals instead of whole numbers. The player with the highest decimal takes the cards.

1. 13. Data Analysis War

Players compare sets of data represented on cards and determine which set has the largest mean, median, or mode. This game reinforces data analysis skills.

1. 14. Prime Factor Bingo

Players find the prime factors of numbers on their bingo cards by using multiplication and division. The first player to complete a line or a blackout wins the game.

1. 15. Roman Numeral Memory

In this memory game, players match cards with Roman numerals to their equivalent Arabic numerals. This game helps students practice converting between the two numeral systems.

1. 16. Equation Solitaire

Players try to form valid equations using the cards on the table. The goal is to use all the cards and create equations that are true.

1. 17. Place Value War

Similar to traditional War, but players compare the place value of their cards instead of their numerical value. This game helps reinforce the concept of place value.

1. 18. Graphing Go Fish

Players ask for cards that represent specific points on a coordinate grid. The goal is to collect sets of cards that lie on the same line or create other geometric shapes.

1. 19. Money Bingo

Players solve money-related problems, such as adding or subtracting amounts, to mark off numbers on their bingo cards. The first player to complete a line or a blackout wins the game.

1. 20. Measurement War

Players compare measurements, such as length, weight, or volume, by using the cards. The player with the largest or smallest measurement wins the round.

In the modern age, technology has become an integral part of our lives. With the current pandemic situation, many children are learning from home, and online resources have become increasingly important. To help parents and educators, here are 20 amazing websites for kids learning at home.

1. ABCmouse (www.abcmouse.com) – This comprehensive learning platform offers interactive lessons in various subjects for kids aged 2 to 8.

2. National Geographic Kids (kids.nationalgeographic.com) – This website provides educational resources about animals, geography, and science, while also offering games and videos.

3. Scholastic Learn at Home (www.scholastic.com/learnathome) – Scholastic provides daily projects to keep kids engaged in reading and learning across different grade levels.

4. Khan Academy (www.khanacademy.org) – Khan Academy offers free video lessons, practice exercises, and quizzes covering a wide range of subjects, from math to science.

5. Funbrain (www.funbrain.com) – Funbrain offers interactive games, books, and videos to make learning enjoyable for kids from preschool through 8th grade.

6. Code.org (code.org) – This website offers free coding lessons for kids of all ages, helping them develop problem-solving and logical thinking skills.

7. PBS Kids (pbskids.org) – PBS Kids provides educational games, videos, and activities based on popular children’s shows to enhance learning for kids ages 2 to 8.

8. BrainPOP Jr. (jr.brainpop.com) – BrainPOP Jr. offers animated educational videos, quizzes, and games in various subjects, including science, social studies, reading, and math.

9. NASA Kids’ Club (www.nasa.gov/kidsclub) – NASA Kids’ Club introduces children to the wonders of space through fun games and activities.

10. Duolingo (www.duolingo.com) – Duolingo makes learning languages enjoyable with game-like lessons suitable for both kids and adults.

11. Cool Math 4 Kids (www.coolmath4kids.com) – This website offers fun and interactive math games, puzzles, and lessons for kids of different grade levels.

12. Time for Kids (www.timeforkids.com) – Time for Kids provides child-friendly news articles, quizzes, and activities to improve reading comprehension and current affairs knowledge.

13. Smithsonian Learning Lab (learninglab.si.edu) – This website offers access to millions of digital resources from the Smithsonian Institution, including images, videos, and articles for interactive learning.

14. National Gallery of Art Kids (www.nga.gov/education/kids.html) – This website provides interactive art activities, games, videos, and stories to inspire children’s creativity and appreciation for art.

15. TypingClub (www.typingclub.com) – TypingClub offers free typing lessons and games to help kids develop efficient typing skills.

16. Exploratorium (www.exploratorium.edu) – Exploratorium provides interactive science activities, videos, and experiments that children can do at home.

17. Cool Science Kids (www.coolsciencekids.com) – This website offers interactive science experiments, projects, and games for curious young minds.

18. National Geographic Kids Games (kids.nationalgeographic.com/games) – National Geographic Kids Games offers various educational and entertaining games that explore nature and wildlife.

19. Highlights Kids (www.highlightskids.com) – This website offers educational and interactive content, including stories, puzzles, and science experiments, for kids of all ages.

20. Project Noah (www.projectnoah.org) – Project Noah allows kids to explore, share, and document wildlife and nature discoveries through interactive field guides and missions.

Remember to supervise your child’s online activities and encourage them to use these websites as educational tools. These 20 amazing websites provide a wide variety of resources to make learning at home both fun and engaging for kids.

In today’s diverse classrooms, it is crucial for white teachers to acknowledge and embrace color. Understanding and acknowledging the diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds of their students can lead to a more inclusive and impactful educational experience. Here are a few reasons why white teachers need to see color:

1. Representation matters: By recognizing and appreciating the diversity of their students, white teachers can provide a more inclusive learning environment. Seeing color means acknowledging that students come from different racial and ethnic backgrounds, which helps promote a sense of belonging and representation in the classroom.

2. Cultural competency: Seeing color allows teachers to develop a better understanding of the cultures and traditions of their students. By learning about their students’ backgrounds, white teachers can incorporate culturally relevant content into their lessons, making education more relatable and engaging for all learners.

3. Tackling bias and stereotypes: By seeing color, white teachers can become more aware of their own biases and challenge stereotypes that may exist within the educational system. Recognizing and addressing these biases can help create a more equitable and just learning environment for all students.

4. Empathy and understanding: Seeing color can foster empathy and understanding among teachers and students. By valuing and respecting diverse perspectives and experiences, teachers can create a classroom culture that encourages open dialogue, promotes empathy, and celebrates differences.

5. Building bridges: White teachers who see color can act as allies and advocates for their students. By actively engaging in conversations about race and promoting racial equity, teachers can help dismantle barriers and ensure that all students have access to equal opportunities.

In conclusion, it is essential for white teachers to acknowledge and see color in order to create a more inclusive and equitable educational environment. By embracing diversity, challenging biases, and promoting understanding, white teachers can play a crucial role in fostering positive change and support for all students, regardless of their racial or ethnic background.

Introduction:

TED Talks provide an exceptional platform for sharing ideas and knowledge. For educators seeking inspiration, guidance, and new perspectives, there are numerous TED Talks specifically aimed at teachers. In this article, we have compiled a list of 12 must-see TED Talks that will undoubtedly ignite your passion for teaching and spur your professional development.

1. “How to Escape Education’s Death Valley” by Sir Ken Robinson
2. “Teach Teachers How to Create Magic” by Christopher Emdin
3. “Every Kid Needs a Champion” by Rita Pierson
4. “The Power of Introverts” by Susan Cain
5. “Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance” by Angela Lee Duckworth
6. “How to Speak So That People Want to Listen” by Julian Treasure
7. “The Surprising Habits of Original Thinkers” by Adam Grant
8. “The Key to Success? Grit” by Richard St. John
9. “Want to Innovate? Become a “Now-ist”” by Joi Ito
10. “The Puzzle of Motivation” by Dan Pink
11. “How to Teach Kids to Talk About Taboo Topics” by Liz Kleinrock
12. “The Danger of a Single Story” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Conclusion:

These 12 must-see TED Talks represent a diverse range of topics that can inspire and empower

teachers to bring positive change to their classrooms. From fostering creativity to understanding the power of perseverance and empathy, these talks offer valuable insights into the art of teaching. Whether you are an experienced educator or just starting your teaching journey, these talks are sure to provide you with fresh ideas and renewed motivation. Dive into these talks, embrace their wisdom, and let them fuel your growth as an educational professional.