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A Lesson Planning Framework That Leads to Productive Struggle

As a teacher, you know that one of the best ways to help your students succeed is to create a lesson plan that leads to productive struggle. In other words, you want to create a framework that challenges your students while also providing opportunities for them to grow and learn.

Luckily, there is a lesson planning framework that can help you achieve this goal. The framework is called the SMART goal model, and it is designed to help you create objectives, strategies, and tactics that will help your students achieve their goals.

The SMART goal model is simple to use and can help you create objectives that are:

Specific

What are the specific objectives that your students are trying to achieve?

Measurable

How will you know if your students have achieved their objectives?

Achievable

How easy will it be for your students to achieve their objectives?

Relevant

What are the objectives related to the topic being taught?

Time-bound

What are the deadlines for achieving the objectives?

Resource-bound

What resources will your students need to achieve the objectives?

The SMART goal model can also help you create strategies that are:

Correct

What action should your students take to achieve their objectives?

Efficient

How can your students achieve their objectives in the least amount of time possible?

Realistic

What can your students realistically expect to achieve in terms of time and resources?

The SMART goal model can also help you create tactics that are:

Specific

What will your students do when they encounter a brick wall while trying to achieve their objectives?

Multi-dimensional

What other strategies can your students use to help them achieve their objectives?

Adaptive

What will happen if the objectives or the strategies that your students use don’t work?

Through using the SMART goal model, you can create a framework that leads to a productive struggle for your students. By understanding what the objectives are, how they will be measured, and what resources will be needed, you can create a plan that is tailored to your student’s needs.  

An Interview with the Father of Multiple Intelligences

An Interview with the Father of Multiple Intelligences

by Maggie Rugg

In 1990, Dr. Howard Gardner, a prominent Harvard psychologist and educator, published his book, “Multiple Intelligences: The Theory of Human Differentiation.” Gardner’s theory posits that humans have multiple intelligences, or “intelligences,” which he defines as “the capacity to think flexibly and efficiently in several different ways.”

Gardner’s book and theory have had a profound impact on education and human development and have been widely embraced by educators and parents alike. Recently, however, some have questioned Gardner’s theory arguing that there is not enough evidence to support it. In this interview, John White, the father of three daughters who all display signs of being highly intelligent in multiple ways, discusses his experiences with his daughters, his belief in the theory of multiple intelligences, and the evidence he believes supports it.

John White

John White is the father of three daughters – Allyson, Allison, and Alexandra – all of whom display signs of being highly intelligent in multiple ways. Allison, for example, is known for her keen mathematical skills, while Alexandra is known for her creativity and ability to think outside the box.

John has openly discussed his experiences with his daughters and the theory of multiple intelligences, and has even written a book about it. In this interview, he discusses his experiences with his daughters, his belief in the theory, and the evidence he believes supports it.

What is your experience with your daughters and their intelligence?

Allyson is the eldest, and she is known for her mathematical skills. Allison is also very creative and she has a lot of ideas. Alexandra is also very creative but in a slightly different way. She is more creative in terms of her imagination.

How do you think their intelligence is related to their individual strengths?

I think their individual strengths are related to their intelligence in multiple ways. For example, Allison is very good at math, but she also likes to write. Alexandra is also very good at math, but she also likes to paint. And, finally, Allyson is good at math, but she also likes to play soccer.

Do you think their intelligence is unique to them or is it a common trait among highly intelligent people?

I think their intelligence is unique to them. I don’t think there are a lot of people who are as talented as they are. I think their intelligence is a unique talent.

Do you think their intelligence is something that can be nurtured and developed?

I do. I think it can be nurtured and developed if the right environment is provided.

How do you think their intelligence is related to their creativity?

Allison and Alexandra are both very creative, but their creativity is different. Allison is more creative in terms of her ideas, and Alexandra is more creative in terms of her imagination.

Do you think their intelligence is something that can be inherited?

I think intelligence is something that can be inherited, but it is not something that is automatically passed on. It needs to be nurtured and developed.

How do you think their intelligence is related to their ability to think outside the box?

Allison and Alexandra are both very good at thinking outside the box. Allison is especially good at it. Alexandra is also very good at it but in a different way.

Do you think their intelligence is something that can be improved?

Yes, I do think their intelligence can be improved.

Do you think their intelligence is something that can be developed through education?

Yes, I do. I think their intelligence can be developed through education. I think that education is very important, especially for people who are highly intelligent like Allison, Alexandra, and Allyson.

Do you think that the theory of multiple intelligences can help people understand and embrace their own unique strengths?

I do. I think that the theory of multiple intelligences can help people understand and embrace their own unique strengths. I think it can also help people understand and embrace the strengths of others.

Do you think that the theory of multiple intelligences can help people develop a better understanding of themselves?

Yes, I do think that the theory of multiple intelligences can help people develop a better understanding of themselves. I think it can also help people develop a better understanding of others.

Do you think that the theory of multiple intelligences can help people better understand and appreciate their environment?

I do think that the theory of multiple intelligences can help people better understand and appreciate their environment. I think it can also help people better understand and appreciate the strengths and abilities of others.

The Future of Teacher Preparation: Two Experts Share Their Thoughts

The future of teacher preparation is in flux. There is no one answer to the question of what will make future teachers successful, but two experts share their thoughts on the matter.

Lynn Ziegler, author and president of Teach for America, believes that new methods of teacher preparation are necessary in order to equip educators with the skills they need to meet the challenges of the 21st century. Ziegler is a proponent of alternative teacher preparation models, such as the Teach for America Corps, which pairs recent college graduates with low-income schools to provide them with the training they need to become teachers.

“We want people who come out of Teach for America not to be just teachers but really change the trajectory of students’ lives,” says Ziegler.

On the other hand, Deborah Meier, president of the National Council for Teacher Quality, believes that traditional teacher preparation programs are adequate for the current needs of educators. Meier argues that there is no need for new methods of teacher preparation since the current model is working well.

“We see no need to completely overhaul the system,” says Meier. “There is no evidence that alternative models do a better job than traditional teacher preparation programs.”

The future of teacher preparation is still in flux, but both experts agree that traditional teacher preparation programs are adequate for the current needs of educators.

Veteran’s Day Crafts and Activities

Veteran’s Day is a day to honor all veterans, including members of the armed forces, people who have served in the merchant marine, and members of the coast guard. In honor of Veteran’s Day, many schools and families hold special events such as crafts and activities. Here are some ideas for Veteran’s Day crafts and activities in school:

1. Make a veteran’s memorial flag. This is a great activity for a class or group project. You will need some materials such as cotton fabric, a dowel rod, flag pins, and a hot glue gun. First, cut a piece of fabric big enough to cover the dowel rod. Then, hot glue the flag on top of the fabric. Make sure to pin it in place so it doesn’t move. Finally, make sure the flag is tall enough to display proudly.

2. Make a veteran’s pinwheel. This is a fun and easy project that can be done by a group. All you need is a pinwheel, some ribbon, and a drill. First, cut the ribbon into short lengths. Then, tie one end of the ribbon around the pinwheel’s axle. Next, tie the other end of the ribbon around the pinwheel’s hub. Finally, drill a hole in the center of the pinwheel. Now you can display your veteran’s pinwheel proudly!

3. Make a veteran’s wreath. This is a classic Veteran’s Day craft. All you need is a wreath form, some wire, and a drill. First, cut the wire to the desired length. Then, thread the wire through the wreath form’s hole. Finally, twist the wire around the wreath form’s stem. Now you can display your Veteran’s wreath proudly!4. Make a veteran’s key chain. This is a fun and easy project that can be done by a group. All you need is a key chain form, some paper clips, and a drill. First, cut the paper clips into the desired length. Then, fold the paper clips in half. Then, insert one paperclip into the key chain form’s hole. Finally, insert the remaining paper clips into the form. Now you can display your veteran’s key chain proudly! 

Studies in Success: A Survey of Assessment Research

Success is not just an objective fact but rather a process that can be learned and improved. It is a journey, not a destination, and the journey is a never-ending process. Success is relative, and therefore, it is a moving target that can change with the passage of time.

One of the most important aspects of success is assessing it. Although there is no one right way to assess success, there is a growing body of research that demonstrates the benefits of using various assessment methods. This article provides a survey of assessment research, including a review of the benefits of using different assessment methods, and a list of the most commonly used assessment methods.

Assessment Methods

There are a variety of assessment methods that can be used to measure success. These methods include objective measures such as academic achievement, job performance, and income; subjective measures such as satisfaction with life; and mixed methods which combine both objective and subjective measures.

Objective Measures

Objective measures are the most straightforward and objective measurements for success. These measures are based on objective facts such as academic achievement, job performance, and income.

Academic achievement is the most common objective measure of success. This measure is based on a student’s grades and class rank. Job performance is another common objective measure of success. This measure is based on a student’s job titles and salaries. Income is another common objective measure of success. This measure is based on a student’s income and assets.

Subjective Measures

Subjective measures are the most subjective way to measure success. These measures are based on a student’s subjective opinions and feelings.

Satisfaction with life is a subjective measure of success. This measure is based on a student’s satisfaction with his or her life circumstances and goals. Happiness is a subjective measure of success. This measure is based on a student’s happiness levels and life satisfaction. Career satisfaction is a subjective measure of success. This measure is based on a student’s satisfaction with his or her career goals.

Mixed Methods

Mixed methods are a combination of objective and subjective measures. This combination allows for more accurate measurement of success.

For example, academic achievement can be measured using objective measures, such as grades and class rank, but happiness can also be measured objectively such as with surveys. Job performance can be measured using objective measures such as titles and salaries, but career satisfaction can also be measured using surveys.

The Benefits of Assessment

There are many benefits that can be achieved by using various assessment methods. These benefits include:

1. Accuracy. Assessment methods are accurate when they measure success accurately.

2. Reliability. Assessment methods are reliable when they are accurate and reliable.

3. Efficiency. Assessment methods are efficient when they are accurate and reliable.

4. Interoperability. Assessment methods are interoperable when they can be used with other assessment methods.

5. Cost. Assessment methods are cost-effective when they are accurate and reliable.

6. Responsiveness. Assessment methods are responsive when they reflect the student’s true abilities and progress.

7. Replicability. Assessment methods are replicable when they can be used by other educators.

8. Timeliness. Assessment methods are timely when they are accurate and reliable.

9. Sensitivity. Assessment methods are sensitive when they reflect the student’s true needs and interests.

Fun and Educational Black History Activities for Toddlers

There are many fun and educational black history activities for toddlers that can introduce them to some of the important moments and people in black history. Some ideas include:

1. Have your toddler dress up as a favorite black historical figure for a family photo.

2. Have your toddler read aloud some of the most popular black history books.

3. Have your toddler make a black history pie chart and explain why certain events and figures are important to black history.

4. Have your toddler create a colorful mural of black history scenes.

5. Have your toddler create a puppet show about black history.

6. Have your toddler make a clay figure of a famous black historical figure.

7. Have your toddler visit a historical marker or museum dedicated to black history.

8. Have your toddler make a Black history timeline.

9. Have your toddler learn some basic African drumming rhythms.

10. Have your toddler create a black history scavenger hunt.  

There are many more fun and educational black history activities that toddlers can enjoy, so be sure to explore the options available to you. These activities can help to foster a love of history in your toddler and teach them about some of the important figures and events in black history.

How to Tap Into Students’ Interests With a TED Talk Unit

Use a TED Talk as the foundation for an engaging unit on topics that interest your students. In this article, we’ll provide tips on how to create a successful TED Talk unit that will engage and inspire your students.

1. Choose a TED Talk that speaks to your student’s interests.

Select a TED Talk that your students will find interesting and motivating. For example, if your students are interested in science, choose a TED Talk on the science of health. If your students are passionate about environmentalism, choose a TED Talk on the power of storytelling to inspire change.

2. Choose a topic that will resonate with your students.

When choosing a TED Talk topic, be sure to steer clear of topics that are too far outside of your student’s interests. For example, a talk on quantum physics is unlikely to be of much interest to middle schoolers. Instead, focus on topics that are relevant to your students’ lives and interests.

3. Consider using visuals to help illustrate the talk.

Many TED Talks include visual aids, such as graphs or photos, that can help illustrate the speaker’s points. If you plan to use visuals in your class, be sure to gather a copy of the talk before you start class so that you can include them in your learning environment.

4. Incorporate the talk into your curriculum.

TED Talks make great additions to curriculums in a number of subjects. For example, you could use a TED Talk on creativity in the arts or health in the sciences. When incorporating a TED Talk into your curriculum, be sure to provide your students with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and engage in discussion.

A Teacher Appreciation Week for the Ages

No one knows what it’s like to be a teacher. It is a demanding and often thankless job. But, that doesn’t mean teachers don’t deserve our appreciation.

Teachers make a huge impact on the lives of their students. They are responsible for shaping the future of our country and the world.

On Teacher Appreciation Week, let’s take a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication of our teachers. Let’s show them how much we appreciate them by doing something special for them.

Here are a few ideas for how to show your appreciation for teachers:

1. Send them a handwritten note expressing your gratitude.

2. Give them a gift certificate for a special restaurant or store.

3. Make them a special dinner at home.

4. Give them a monetary donation to their favorite charity.

5. Plan a special outing for the two of you such as going to a museum or going for a walk in the park.

6. Write or compose a poem or song about how grateful you are for the education your teacher has given you.

7. Make a cake or cookies in the shape of a teacher and give them to the teacher as a token of your appreciation.

8. Plant a tree in the teacher’s name in your backyard or garden.

Teachers are the unsung heroes of our society. They deserve our appreciation and our utmost respect. Let’s show them how much we appreciate them on Teacher Appreciation Week.

Personalized Professional Development at Home

There is no doubt that professional development can be highly beneficial for employees. However, many people may not have the time or opportunity to attend traditional classes or seminars. Fortunately, personalized professional development can be conducted at home.

One of the biggest benefits of personalized professional development is that it can be tailored to the individual. This means that the content is tailored to the individual’s needs and goals rather than the general requirements of the class or seminar. Additionally, personalized professional development can be more affordable than traditional professional development.

One of the biggest challenges with personalized professional development is that it can be difficult to maintain a consistent learning schedule. It can be difficult to stay on top of all the new information and apply it to your work. However, with the help of a learning management system (LMS), it is possible to track progress.

Overall, personalized professional development is great for staying on top of your career and improving your skills. It is important to take the time to find the right program and to ensure that the program is tailored to your needs. With the help of an LMS, it is easy to track your progress and stay motivated.  

Give Your Space the Right Design

Giving your space the right design can make a difference in your mood and how you feel. Martha Stewart has said that “a well-designed space is one where you feel comfortable and in control.” To make sure your space is well-designed, consider the following tips.

1. Choose a Theme

Think about what you want your space to feel like. Are you looking for a relaxing environment? A bright and cheerful one? Or something in between? Choose a theme and stick to it. This will help you create a cohesive look and feel for your space.

2. Use Colors

Colors can have a huge impact on your mood and how you feel. Choose colors that make you feel good. For example, if you’re feeling down, go for colors that are dark and depressing. If you’re feeling energetic, go for colors that are lively and upbeat.

3. Use Furniture

Choose furniture that’s in line with your theme and colors. For example, if you’re using a dark color scheme, don’t put bright furniture in your space. Likewise, if you’re using a light color scheme, don’t put dark furniture in your space.

4. Use Lighting

Lighting can also have a big impact on your mood and how you feel. Choose lighting that’s in line with your theme and colors. For example, if you’re using a dark color scheme, choose light fixtures and light bulbs.

5. Use Mirrors

Mirrors can help to create a spacious and airy feeling in your space. Place them strategically to create an illusion of size and depth.

6. Use Throw Pillows

Throw pillows are great for adding personality and comfort to your space. Choose pillows that complement your theme and colors. For example, if you’re using a dark color scheme, choose pillows in dark colors.

7. Use plants

Plants can add personality and life to your space. Choose plants that are in line with your theme and colors. For example, if you’re using a light color scheme, choose plants that are in light colors.

8. Use Art

Art can add personality and life to your space. Choose art that’s in line with your theme and colors. For example, if you’re using a dark color scheme, choose light art.

9. Use Storage

Storage can help to organize your space and make it feel more spacious. Choose storage that’s in line with your theme and colors. For example, if you’re using a light color scheme, choose storage that’s in light colors.

10. Use Accessories

Accessories can help to add personality and life to your space. Choose accessories that are in line with your theme and colors. For example, if you’re using a dark color scheme, choose accessories that are in dark colors.