Must Reads for Instructional Leaders

Scientific American

Some study techniques accelerate learning, whereas others are just a waste of time—but which ones are which? An unprecedented review maps out the best pathways to knowledge

By John Dunlosky , Katherine A. Rawson , Elizabeth J. Marsh , Mitchell J. Nathan and Daniel T. Willingham  

Sunday, August 18, 2013

Some study techniques accelerate learning, whereas others are just a waste of time—but which ones are which? An unprecedented review maps out the best pathways to knowledge

via Teaching Channel

Video: Math teacher, Leah Alcala, engages students by using a warm-up problem at the beginning of every class.

Materials and Resources: Index Cards, Document Camera, LCD Projector

This is a great "bell ringer," or "do now" activity.

This 5:00 minute video also demonstrates the following:

1. Creating a low-threat classroom environment
2. Low-cost strategies
3. Formative Assessment
4. Check for Understanding
5. Whole-Class Instruction
6. Questionning Strategies
7. Guided Practice
8. Differentiation
9. Teach and Re-teach
10. Higher-Order Thinking (Analyze, Evaluate)

Via Mel Riddile

The results of this year's PDK/Gallup Poll of the Public's Attitudes Towards the Public Schools offers some heartening news for public education advocates.

Before taking the poll, only 38 percent of respondents had heard of the Common Core State Standards -- and just 45 percent of public school parentshad heard of them.