Teaching Strategies, Tactics, and Methods

As teachers, we’re always looking for new and engaging ways to stimulate our students’ minds, helping them learn while also having fun. One method that has become increasingly popular is incorporating brain games into the classroom. These games not only promote cognitive development but also foster collaboration, problem-solving skills, and critical thinking. Here is a compilation of the best brain games for incorporating into your lesson plans.

1. 24 Game

This challenging math game encourages students to use their mental math skills to create the number 24 using four randomly chosen numbers. Played individually or in teams, this game can be easily adapted to different skill levels by varying the card values or limiting the arithmetic operations used.

2. Spot It!

Spot It! is a fast-paced visual matching game that challenges players to quickly identify matching patterns on circular cards. This game stimulates visual acuity and processing speed while being easily adaptable to various age groups and proficiency levels.

3. Set

This visual perception card game requires players to recognize common attributes among a group of cards displaying different shapes, colors, numbers, and shading patterns. Students need to employ their logical reasoning abilities to find sets that share certain characteristics while ignoring irrelevant information.

4. Qwirkle

Qwirkle combines elements of pattern recognition and strategy in this board game where students must match tiles by shape or color to earn points. The game promotes spatial awareness and strategic thinking while providing an interactive group learning experience.

5. Braintopia

Braintopia is a collection of eight mini-games that challenge students’ memory, concentration, speed, and perception through various tasks like pattern-matching or word association. These challenges require quick thinking and adaptability while increasing mental agility.

6. Scrabble

Scrabble not only helps students develop vocabulary but it also exercises their strategy skills as they find ways to maximize points by playing high-scoring letters on the board. This classic word game can be adapted for different skill levels, making it suitable for students of all ages.

7. Sudoku

Sudoku is an excellent exercise in logic and problem-solving. These number puzzles challenge students to fill a grid with digits under specific constraints, fostering critical thinking and numeracy skills. Teachers can create their own puzzles or find age-appropriate Sudoku games online.

8. Boggle

In Boggle, students are given a 4×4 or 5×5 grid of letters and must find as many words as possible by connecting adjacent letters within a limited time. This fast-paced game boosts vocabulary, word recognition, and pattern-finding skills.

9. Blokus

Blokus is a strategic board game that requires players to place geometric tiles on the board while blocking their opponents’ moves. This game helps improve spatial reasoning and planning skills in a competitive yet collaborative environment.

10. Quizlet Live

This online platform allows teachers to create custom quizzes that students compete in answering correctly as quickly as possible, promoting teamwork and solidifying lesson material through repetition and competition.

Incorporating these brain games into your classroom will not only foster cognitive development but also provide opportunities for students to engage, collaborate, and strengthen their problem-solving abilities, all while having fun!

Introduction:

Asking the right questions is essential for engaging students in math classes and helping them develop critical thinking skills. When students ask meaningful questions, they become more invested in the subject and take a more active role in learning. To encourage deeper understanding and foster a sense of curiosity in the classroom, here are eight ways to pose better questions in math class.

1. Open-ended questions:

Encourage students to explore various ways to solve a problem by asking open-ended questions that don’t have a single correct answer. This allows them to think creatively about different approaches and helps deepen their understanding of mathematical concepts.

2. Real-world connections:

Connect mathematical concepts to real-life situations by asking questions that relate to everyday experiences or practical applications. These types of questions help students see the relevance of math outside the classroom and improve their problem-solving abilities.

3. Encourage collaboration:

Allow students to share their ideas and build off each other’s suggestions by posing questions that require discussion or group work. This not only fosters teamwork but also exposes students to different perspectives on how a problem might be solved.

4. Scaffold questions:

Scaffold your questions so they progressively challenge students’ thinking, drawing them deeper into their understanding of the concept at hand. Start with simpler inquiries and gradually increase complexity as students become more competent.

5. Emphasize process over product:

Instead of focusing exclusively on correct answers, ask questions that reveal students’ thought processes to understand how they approach problem-solving. Encourage them to reflect on their strategies, highlighting what does or does not work.

6. Use “what if?” scenarios:

Invite exploration and creativity by posing hypothetical situations or making alterations to an existing problem. Ask them how a change in the given conditions might impact the outcome or solution, prompting them to think critically about multiple possibilities.

7. Avoid leading questions:

To ensure genuine understanding, frame questions neutrally and avoid inadvertently suggesting an answer. This enables students to think freely and challenges them to arrive at solutions independently.

8. Reflect and analyze:

Prompt students to self-evaluate their work by asking questions that encourage reflection on their progress, comprehension, and areas for improvement. This can help them gain insights into their strengths and weaknesses and become more independent learners.

Conclusion:

Asking better questions in math class can make a significant impact on students’ engagement, creative thinking, and problem-solving abilities. By implementing these eight strategies, educators can create an environment where critical thinking flourishes and students are inspired to deepen their understanding of mathematical concepts.

As a teacher, I know that when students return from winter break, they’re often bombarded with questions about their time off. However, it’s important to be mindful of what questions we ask to create an inclusive and comfortable classroom environment. Here are five questions I’ve chosen not to ask my students about their winter break – and why.

1. “Did you go on any vacations?”

Traveling during the winter break is a luxury that not all families can afford. By asking this question, we might inadvertently make those who didn’t travel feel left out or less fortunate. Instead of asking about vacations, try engaging the students in a conversation about something new or interesting they learned over the break.

2. “What gifts did you receive?”

This question assumes that all students celebrate holidays with gifts, which is not always the case. Some families may have different traditions or may not celebrate at all. To foster inclusivity, steer clear of this question and focus on asking about students’ favorite moments from their break instead.

3. “Did you spend time with your family?”

While this question may seem innocent, it can be sensitive for some students who have difficult family situations or are separated from their loved ones. Instead of prying into their personal lives, consider asking a more general question like, “What was the highlight of your winter break?”

4. “Did you do anything special for the holidays?”

Holidays are celebrated differently across cultures and religions. By assuming all students observed a specific holiday in a traditional way, we might exclude those who don’t celebrate them or who do so in a different way. A better option would be to ask, “Did you engage in any fun activities during your time off?”

5. “How did you celebrate New Year’s Eve?”

Not all cultures celebrate New Year’s Eve on December 31st or in the same way, so asking this question could alienate some students. As an alternative, ask students about any personal or academic goals they’ve set for themselves in the new year.

In conclusion, it’s essential to be mindful of the questions we ask our students after winter break. Focusing on inclusivity and understanding will help create a more positive and supportive learning environment for everyone.

Introduction:

Winter break is a time of year that is treasured by students and teachers alike. It’s a chance to unwind, recharge, and reconnect with family and friends after months of hard work in the classroom. One might think that time spent away from the classroom should be about relaxation and enjoyment rather than last-minute assignments or catch-up work. Yet, there seems to be an increasing trend of assigning homework over winter break. This practice not only detracts from the benefits of the holidays but also negatively affects the physical and mental wellbeing of everyone involved.

Benefits of an Assignment-Free Winter Break:

1. Improved Mental Health: Students need downtime to de-stress and maintain emotional wellbeing. A break free from academic responsibilities helps them recharge and reduces anxiety, which in turn improves their performance upon returning to school.

2. Strengthened Family Bonding: Winter break allows families to spend quality time together, building strong relationships that create a sense of stability and support crucial for successful learning.

3. Enhanced Extracurricular Engagement: Time off from school creates opportunities for students to pursue personal interests, hobbies, or sports, leading to new skills and well-rounded individuals.

4. Better Physical Health: Rest allows our bodies to repair and rejuvenate, ensuring that students return revitalized for the remainder of the academic year.

The Negative Impact of Homework over Winter Break:

1. Increased Stress Levels: Assigning homework during this time can contribute to heightened stress for both students and their families who already face various holiday-related responsivities.

2. Diminished Family Time: Homework responsibilities over winter break can diminish precious family bonding opportunities, harming relationships during a time when connection should be a priority.

3. Reduced Motivation: A lack of restorative downtime may lead to burnout, making it difficult for students to perform at their best upon returning to school.

4. Inequity Among Students: Assigning homework during the winter break may disproportionately affect those students who lack access to internet, technology, or learning resources at home.

Conclusion:

Assigning homework over winter break takes away from the intended purpose of the holiday – a time to rest, disconnect, and reconnect with loved ones. Educators should consider the adverse effects of this practice on students’ mental and physical health and family life. Instead, let’s give our students the carefree and restorative space they deserve during winter break. With ample time for rejuvenation, they’ll return to the classroom more passionate, enthusiastic, and ready to learn than ever before.

Introduction:

The shift to online teaching has presented numerous challenges for both teachers and students alike. However, it has also opened the door for creative and innovative solutions to make distance learning more engaging and effective. From making your own document camera to other handy hacks, this article will introduce you to 11 online teaching tips that could revolutionize the way you conduct your virtual classes.

1. DIY Document Camera:

By using a smartphone or tablet with a decent camera, you can create your own makeshift document camera. Simply position your device above a flat surface in a way that its camera can capture whatever is placed below it. You can then mirror or share your screen in your video conferencing software to display live handwriting, drawing, or demonstrations.

2. Virtual Backgrounds:

Customize your online classroom with virtual backgrounds. Many video conferencing platforms offer this feature, allowing you to change the background image during video calls for a more immersive and professional experience.

3. Interactive Teaching Tools:

Incorporate interactive teaching tools like Nearpod, Kahoot!, Quizlet, or Google Classroom into your lessons for increased engagement and interaction among students.

4. Video Speed Controls:

Encourage students to use video speed controls when watching pre-recorded lectures or educational videos to enable them to learn at their own pace.

5. Breakout Rooms:

Utilize breakout rooms available in various video conferencing platforms for group discussions and collaborative activities without leaving the main virtual classroom.

6. Green Screen Magic:

A green screen can be an inexpensive and fun tool for online teaching. Bring lessons to life by placing yourself in various environments or give presentations in front of custom-made virtual backgrounds.

7. Adopt Hybrid Learning Strategies:

Combine traditional educational techniques with digital technology by using a mix of live online classes, recorded lectures, discussion boards, and supplementary resources.

8. Check-In Surveys:

Keep track of your students’ progress and wellbeing by periodically sending out check-in surveys that cover both academic and emotional aspects. This helps identify potential issues early and allows you to adapt accordingly.

9. Gamify the Learning Process:

Turn learning into a game by incorporating competitive elements, such as leaderboards, points, or badges, to increase student motivation and involvement.

10. Time Management Techniques:

Employ time management techniques like the Pomodoro Technique within your online lessons to help students maintain focus and reduce burnout.

11. Encourage Peer Collaboration:

Foster a sense of community within your online classroom by encouraging peer collaboration through group assignments, discussion boards, or shared documents.

Conclusion:

As online teaching becomes more commonplace, it is crucial for educators to adapt their strategies and find new ways to engage students in this digital environment. By incorporating these hacks into your virtual classes, you can enhance the overall learning experience and make online teaching more enjoyable for both you and your students.

Introduction:

Organizing your life and maintaining orderliness can be a daunting task. However, lining-up strategies can provide much-needed assistance in keeping your life manageable and stress-free. Below is a list of 15 effective lining-up strategies that can make your life significantly easier.

1. Prioritize tasks:

Establishing a hierarchy of priorities is essential. Determine which tasks are crucial and complete them first before moving on to smaller, less urgent jobs.

2. Break tasks into smaller steps:

Breaking down large or overwhelming tasks into smaller, more manageable segments can dramatically increase productivity and efficiency.

3. Create a weekly plan:

Forming a comprehensive plan for the week can promote better time management as it allows you to map out essential tasks beforehand.

4. Set deadlines:

Assigning deadlines to each task encourages a sense of urgency, prompting you to work efficiently towards completing them within the stipulated time frame.

5. Use digital tools:

Take advantage of technology by using digital tools like calendars, to-do lists, and productivity apps that provide reminders and help with organization.

6. Declutter regularly:

Regularly clearing unnecessary items from your workspace or living space cultivates an orderly environment, reducing stress and promoting focus.

7. Develop daily routines:

Adopting routines for various aspects of your life fosters efficiency by helping you manage your time effectively and eliminating wasted moments.

8. Break up major projects into phases:

When pursuing significant projects, dividing them into phases allows for better organization and streamlined progress tracking.

9. Delegate when possible:

Delegation is essential in easing the burden of responsibility and promoting teamwork while ensuring that vital tasks are completed efficiently.

10. Set aside time for relaxation:

Creating dedicated moments for relaxation helps improve mental health, reduces burnout risk, and fosters increased productivity during work times.

11. Adopt the “2-minute rule”:

If a task takes less than two minutes to complete, do it immediately instead of postponing it. This approach clears small tasks quickly, paving the way for more significant jobs.

12. Use the Pomodoro Technique:

Working in focused blocks of 25 minutes, followed by a short break, maximizes productivity and helps maintain focus throughout the day.

13. Review your day:

Taking time to review your day’s accomplishments can help identify areas needing improvement and measures to enhance workflow.

14. Label and categorize items:

Labeling items and organizing them into distinct categories makes locating them much easier, reducing wasted time searching for items.

15. Utilize a systematic approach to paperwork:

Organize essential paperwork by using folders or filing systems, ensuring important documents are accessible when needed.

Conclusion:

Incorporating these 15 genius lining-up strategies into your daily life can significantly ease the pressures of organization and promote a healthier work-life balance. Remember that change takes time; start by incorporating a strategy one at a time until you establish a routine that works for you.

Are you looking for creative and practical ways to incorporate chalkboards into your home? Look no further! Here are six insanely clever repurposed chalkboard ideas that you can easily DIY!

1. Chalkboard Serving Tray

Transform an old or unused serving tray into an attractive and functional chalkboard serving tray. Simply paint the interior portion with chalkboard paint, let it dry, and voila! Write cute messages or easily label the snacks on your tray for your next get-together. This works great for parties, brunches or just a fun family dinner.

2. Reclaimed Door Chalkboard

Give a new life to an old door by transforming it into a large, vertical chalkboard. Remove any handles or hardware, sand it down, and coat with chalkboard paint. Attach to a wall or lean against it for a trendy chalkboard option perfect for writing down shopping lists, meal plans or scheduling appointments.

3. Chalkboard Cabinet Makeover

Breathe new life into dated kitchen cabinets by giving them a quick chalkboard makeover. Paint the cabinet doors with non-toxic chalkboard paint, and then use decorative knobs or pulled to add charm. Not only does this give your kitchen a stylish update, but it also lets you keep track of inventory inside each cabinet!

4. Chalk Mug Design

Upgrade your morning coffee routine with this simple DIY project! Grab some plain mugs and ceramic-chalkboard paint from your local craft store, then let your imagination run wild! Customize each mug with cute sayings, drawings or initials of family members, making each one unique to its user.

5. Chalk Paint Vases

Revamp your plain glass vase collection by giving them a fresh coat of chalk paint! Apply multiple layers until the glass surface is completely covered. Once dried, embellish your vases with personalized messages or fun doodles. They make perfect, customizable centerpieces for any dining table.

6. Upcycled Window Frame Noticeboard

Turn an old window frame into a rustic chalkboard noticeboard! Simply remove the glass panes and paint the frame with your desired color. Then, cut a piece of plywood to fit within each empty pane space and coat with chalkboard paint. Secure the wooden chalkboards inside the frame, and hang it in your family room or entryway to create a central hub for communication.

With these six repurposed chalkboard ideas, you’ll be able to bring creativity and functionality into your home effortlessly. Give these DIY projects a try and amaze yourself with just how easy it is to transform ordinary items into beautiful chalkboard masterpieces!

Teaching students about notable figures in the arts can help them develop a better understanding of the rich history and diverse talents encompassed within the realm of creative expression. One such figure that deserves attention in the classroom is Simon Callow, a highly versatile and well-respected English actor, director, and writer. In order to effectively engage students in learning about Callow, it’s essential to utilize an array of teaching methods and materials that cater to different learning preferences.

Career Overview

Simon Callow is a multitalented artist who has excelled in various aspects of the performing arts throughout his career. Born in 1949, Callow initially worked as a box office clerk before enrolling in London’s Drama Centre. His acting career took off with his appearance in the play “The Thrie Estates” in 1974. Since then, he has appeared in numerous stage productions, television series, and films, such as “Four Weddings and a Funeral,” “Amadeus,” and “Shakespeare in Love,” among many others.

Callow has also made significant contributions behind the scenes, directing numerous plays like “Carmen Jones” and “The Woman in White.” As a writer, he has authored multiple biographies, including those of Charles Laughton and Orson Welles, as well as his own memoirs.

Teaching Strategies

1. Discussion-led Learning: Start by providing students with background information on Simon Callow’s life and accomplishments. Then, facilitate an open discussion where students can share their initial impressions of this accomplished artist and ask questions that spark curiosity.

2. Visual Presentations: A picture is worth a thousand words; therefore, incorporate images and videos from Callow’s various performances to give students a better idea of his work. For example, you could show clips from some of his classic film and stage appearances, as well as interviews and behind-the-scenes footage.

3. Comparing Works: Encourage students to analyze and compare Callow’s performances in different productions. This activity will allow them to appreciate the artistic range he displays in his various roles, from comedic to dramatic, on stage and screen.

4. Written Assignments: Assign biographical or research-based essays that require students to delve deeper into the life and career of Simon Callow. This process will encourage critical thinking and introduce them to valuable resources, such as interviews, articles, books, and documentaries.

5. Creative Interpretation: Have students showcase their own creative talents by asking them to reenact or reinterpret one of Callow’s memorable performances. This activity will not only engage students in understanding his work on a more profound level but also help develop their acting and performance skills.

6. Guest Lectures & Workshops: If possible, invite local actors or theater experts to the classroom for guest lectures or workshops. Such interaction with professionals can provide insights into the practical aspects of working in the arts industry and inspire students to consider pursuing a career in this field.

Conclusion

Teaching students about Simon Callow provides an opportunity to explore the multifaceted world of performing arts while inspiring creativity and critical thinking. By utilizing diverse teaching strategies that cater to different learning preferences, educators can foster an engaging learning experience that encourages both artistic appreciation and personal growth among their pupils.

Introducing students to the influential figures in ecology can help increase their understanding and appreciation for this important scientific discipline. One prominent figure worthy of study is Dr. Chris Humphries: a pioneering ecologist and educator instrumental in developing the advancements in biogeography, systematics, and conservation biology. This article aims to provide an overview of Chris Humphries’ life, his contributions to the field of ecology, and methods for teaching students about his work effectively.

Early Life and Education

Chris Humphries was born in London on February 20th, 1947. He developed a love for nature early in his life, which eventually led him to pursue a degree in botany at the University of Reading. In 1969, he went on to receive a Ph.D. in systematic botany from the University of Bristol. During his Ph.D., he began focusing on geographical distribution patterns across plant species, especially those within the family Compositae.

Career and Contributions

After completing his Ph.D., Humphries began a two-year postdoc position at the University of Helsinki. There, he focused on floristics—the study of plants’ geographic distributions. This set the foundation for his research into biogeography, which aimed at understanding plants’ distribution across the world and their evolutionary relationships.

In 1975, he became an assistant professor at the University of Reading where he continued to delve deeper into biogeography studies. Following this, he received an offer from The Natural History Museum, London (then known as The British Museum) to lead their botanical research division. It became one of the most productive periods of his career as he expanded on the techniques that integrated geology, taxonomy, and geography.

Humphries co-authored two highly influential research papers with Lynne Parenti during this time—’Cladistics,’ published in 1981 and ‘Phylogenetic biogeography,’ in 1986. These works laid the foundations for a modern understanding of biogeography.

Teaching Strategies for Chris Humphries’ Work

To engage students in Chris Humphries’ accomplishments and research contributions, consider using these teaching strategies:

1. Biographical Introduction: Start with explaining Chris Humphries’ early life, detailing how his childhood experiences prepared him for his illustrious career. Grasping his personal journey can help students connect with Humphries on a more relatable level.

2. Focused Discussions: Hold classroom discussions about the significance of biogeography, systematics, and conservation biology during Humphries’ time of research. Ensure that students understand how his work aided in advancing each of these fields.

3. Interactive Learning: Use hands-on activities, such as creating visual aids that demonstrate principles related to biogeography, cladistics, and the distribution of plant species that Humphries studied. This can help students better visualize how his work contributed to the realm of ecology.

4. Case Studies: Incorporate case studies relevant to Humphries’ work on the Compositae family into your lessons. Ask your students to analyze maps depicting plant distributions and relate them to geological features that influenced their emergence.

5. Exploring Legacy: Discuss how Chris Humphries’ work has influenced modern ecological studies and encourage students to explore contemporary research built upon his findings.

Conclusion

Teaching about pioneers like Dr. Chris Humphries is important for fostering students’ passion for ecology and understanding the interconnectedness between different biological, geographical, and geological aspects. Utilizing engaging teaching strategies can help captivate students’ interest as they delve into the study of this influential figure’s work within ecological sciences.

Jeremy Jackson is an acclaimed American artist, photographer, and environmental activist whose work has spanned numerous disciplines and garnered international attention. Integrating his passion for art with his commitment to environmental conservation, Jackson serves as a valuable role model for students who hope to make a difference in the world while pursuing their creative passions. This article aims to guide educators in teaching students about the life and achievements of Jeremy Jackson.

Early Life and Artistic Beginnings:

Born on December 29th, 1960, in Vestal, New York, Jeremy Jackson showed exceptional creative talent from an early age. While majoring in fine arts at Syracuse University, he honed his skills in different mediums – including painting, sculpture, and photography. Educators should highlight these formative years as a way to demonstrate the cultivation of talent through education and practice.

Interdisciplinary Art:

One of the standout features of Jeremy Jackson’s career is the diverse range of mediums he has worked within. From traditional painting to cutting-edge digital art, he is constantly pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. Teachers can use these examples to spark discussions about interdisciplinary thinking and embracing new tools and technologies.

Environmental Activism:

Alongside his artistic pursuits, Jeremy Jackson is also a formidable advocate for environmental causes. He has used his formidable skills as a photographer to capture striking images of endangered ecosystems around the world. These images have been prominently featured in galleries, books, and multimedia projects that raise awareness of environmental issues.

In the classroom setting, teachers can use works such as Tread Softly (2011), which portrays delicate ecosystems under threat from climate change, as starting points for discussions on environmental activism and responsible citizenship.

Collaborations with Other Artists:

Jeremy Jackson frequently collaborates with other artists from various fields. This networking aspect can be used in class discussions that focus on the importance of interdisciplinary collaborations and how they can lead to successful projects. By introducing students to these connections, teachers can encourage them to be open-minded and explore collaborations in their own creative endeavors.

Using Media for Environmental Activism:

In recent years, Jackson has used social media platforms like Instagram to advocate for environmental issues and raise awareness of climate change. This modern approach to activism is an excellent way to help students understand the role that technology and media play in shaping public opinion and driving social change.

Teaching students about Jeremy Jackson’s career requires educators to navigate a rich tapestry of artistic mediums, bold environmental advocacy, and skilled networking. By understanding these elements, teachers can equip their students with the tools they need to engage in artful activism themselves.