The Classroom Commute

ALL GOOD THINGS MUST COME TO AN… END?I began this podcast in January of 2020 - ya know - before the world as we knew it changed.  When I began the podcast almost 3 years ago - I could not have predicted all the changes that have occurred between then and now.There were the obvious changes like the changes brought on by the pandemic.  There were so many changes in the way your classrooms were run, and the changes in the way you had to teach your students.  But - teachers pivoted.Then, there were the changes that needed to be put in place as you welcomed students back into the classroom in person.  And, like always, teachers planned and prepared to help with the transition. The students that returned to the classrooms post-pandemic were different from those that left your classroom in March of 2020.And - my role, at least I hope, was to help provide you with resources, ideas, and tips for navigating all the changes in the last 3 years.After a lot of thinking and taking all things into consideration, I have decided to take a pause on this podcast and shift my focus to LINKtivities and the LINKtivity Learning Membership.FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/147Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeEPISODE 138: The Story of the LINKtivity (Celebrating 1 Year With LINKtivity Learning)Resources for the Upper Elementary Classroom - The Classroom Nook Teacher ShopLINKtivity Learning MembershipFollow us on Instagram

YOU HAVEN'T EXPERIENCED BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT LIKE THIS BEFORE…But you're about to.Teachers know that success in the classroom begins with classroom management.And classroom management starts with relationships.Without building positive relationships with students, you'll be swimming upstream all year long.Shawn Young, CEO of Classcraft (a behavior management tool), knows this all too well.  As a student himself, he often felt bored with school and didn't feel a sense of belonging.  When he became a teacher himself, he wanted to create a different experience for his students - one that was built on the foundation on positive relationships.Out of his own need in the classroom, Shawn began building an online platform that focused on positive behavior interventions. And Classcraft was born.Classcraft is an innovative platform that helps educators make learning meaningful and motivates students through gamification. Not only did he see the impact it had on his own students, but others began to notice as well.  And now - Shawn is on a mission to replicate this same positive experience in classrooms around the world.  Since launching Classcraft into the world of education, it has been a force to be reckoned with in transforming behavior and classroom cultures.And - I had the privilege to have Shawn on the podcast to talk all about positive behavior intervention & supports, also known as PBIS - and how Classcraft supports PBIS programs.FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/146

FEELING LIKE YOUR CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT STRATEGY COULD USE A LITTLE FINE-TUNING?Well - you're in luck!  Today I've brought on Dr. Lori Friesen to share her most effective classroom management hacks that any teacher can implement immediately to start seeing results.And Dr. Lori knows what she's talking about.  She's been around the (classroom) block a time or two!Dr. Lori Friesen taught for 10 years in Canada and overseas in Hong Kong and Japan before completing her PhD in Elementary Education with a specialization in Language and Literacy. She taught pre-service teachers at the University of Lethbridge and published The Beginning Teacher's Handbook for Elementary School as the culminating project for her M.Ed. Dr. Lori completed her PhD at the University of Alberta and has been inducted into the Golden Key International Honor Society in recognition of her outstanding academic achievement and excellence. Dr. Lori recently met Oprah Winfrey on Oprah's The Life You Want series' show on service where she had an opportunity to share her vision for how to support new teachers. Dr. Lori's work has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals, including The International Journal of Learning and Childhood Educational International as well as the popular online Edutopia. Host of the popular Beginning Teacher Talk podcast with more than 250,000 downloads and creator of the R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy with 1,600+ students, Dr. Lori is dedicated to supporting and inspiring educators around the world.And I had the honor of picking her brain with some of the most simple ways that teachers can fine tune their classroom management plan.Dr. Lori not only shares some amazing classroom management tips - but she also shares how teachers can use these tips to build a strong classroom community that promotes positive interactions with everyone.FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/145Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeGrab Lori's FREE Ultimate Classroom Management Checklist HERE. Keep in Touch with Lori: WebsitePodcast: Beginning Teacher TalkInstagramTikTok

CALLING ALL CHROMEBOOK CLASSROOMS!Using classroom technology can be an amazing way to enhance your students' learning experience — but that doesn't mean it comes without its challenges.When it comes to using technology with elementary students, teachers often find themselves frustrated and overwhelmed when students lack basic technology skills (20 minutes to login, anyone?), or don't know where to find important websites needed at a small-group center.That's why I brought on John Sowash - Chromebook expert and enthusiast!  John Sowash is an experienced classroom teacher, former school administrator, author of The Chromebook Classroom, and founder of the Google Certification Academy. John inspires educators to use technology to connect with and challenge students.And today, he's inspiring US to get comfortable with using Chromebooks in the classroom.  And even if your students a different device, John's tips will certainly help you as well.FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/144Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeJohn's Resources for Teachers: Class Login Challenge Turn on Domain Autocomplete DirectionsEnable PIN Login Directions Blog Post: Teach “Chromecabulary” Student Technology Skills ChecklistCreate a Class Start Page: ExamplesTeach Students to Use the Camera AppCreate QR Code Cards: TemplateEPISODE 38: Tips & Best Practices for Technology in the ClassroomEPISODE 141: 3 Myths of a 21st Century Classroom

BRAND NEW TO STEM INSTRUCTION?Or - have your tried implementing STEM projects in your classroom but find it results in chaos? (you're not alone!)Then, allow me to introduce you to Naomi Meredith - former classroom teacher turned K-5 STEM coach.Naomi knows the feeling of overwhelm all to well when it comes to STEM instruction.  After accepting a position as a STEM coach, she was thrusted into a new building, a new STEM classroom — and given NO curriculum.But along the way, Naomi has learned a thing or two (or ten!) about what makes STEM instruction successful in the elementary classroom, and she's here to share her expertise with us.  Her role not only includes teaching over 500 students in her school, but also leading professional development and co-teaching with teachers to help them integrate STEM & Technology.With over a decade of experience along with a M.Ed. in STEM Leadership and STEM Certificate, she helps teachers world-wide navigate the best practices, strategies and tools out there. She truly believes that any teacher out there can learn how to use STEM & Technology in their classrooms effectively. And, I had the honor of picking her brain about all things STEM - and you get to eavesdrop in on our conversation.FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/143Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeGrab Naomi's FREE K-5 STEM Year Long plan HERE!The Elementary STEM Coach Podcast:Episode 4: Welcome to STEM Survival CampEpisode 6: Managing Your Makerspace in the ClassroomAfter the Fall by Dan SantatNaomi's Favorite Timer for Classroom ManagementConnect with Naomi Meredith: WebsiteInstagram, TikTok, Twitter & YouTubePodcast: The Elementary STEM Coach CLICK HERE to grab our LIMITED TIME FREE LINKtivity on Space - perfect to use as fast-finishers, at-home learning exploration, school breaks, and MORE!

THERE'S AN APP FOR THAT!But you might not have thought to use THIS particular app in the classroom.What is it?  Google Keep!If you haven't thought about using the Google Keep app for your productivity and organizational needs in the classroom - then buckle up - all that is about to change!Today's guest is none other than the amazing Michelle Emerson from Pocketful of Primary.Michelle Emerson has taught 2nd grade and 4th grade for seven years and now supports teachers around the world by creating digital teacher resources, producing educational videos for teachers on her YouTube channel, Pocketful of Primary, and sharing productivity tips on her podcast, Teaching to the TOP. She believes all teachers should feel empowered by their profession instead of overwhelmed and seeks to help educators master technology and create a work-life balance through her tips and strategies.In our conversation, Michelle is going to blow your mind with new ways that you can use Google Keep to get (and keep) all your ducks in a row!  From checklists to collaboration, and so much more - Google Keep is about to become your new virtual teacher bestie.FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/142LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODEGrab Michelle's FREE Google Keep Headers HERE!Follow Michelle on Social Media:YouTubeInstagramPodcast: Teaching to the TOPWebsiteCLICK HERE to grab our LIMITED TIME FREE LINKtivity on Space - perfect to use as fast-finishers, at-home learning exploration, school breaks, and MORE!

DO YOU EVER HEAR EDUCATIONAL BUZZ WORDS AND THINK “WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?”Am I doing that? Or even… do I HAVE to do that? Am I doing it right? Often times we hear buzz words and teachers groan because they're afraid that that “buzz word” is likely going to bring about change in their classroom.  And change can be scary.Maybe that's how you feel when you hear the phrase 21st century classroom.I say it all the time here on the podcast and YOU might hear it and think… What does that even mean?  Do I have a 21st century classroom?  Am I doing it right?Today I want to squash some myths that might be floating around about a 21st century classroom.So, let's dive right in.FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/141Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeEPISODE 95: What is a 21st Century Classroom??Follow The Classroom Nook on Instagram Learn more about the LINKtivity® Learning membership.

We've heard it said:  Relationships are everything.It's a bold statement, but - man, is it ever true…ESPECIALLY when it comes to teaching!If the pandemic and the past two years have taught us anything, it's that teaching and the success of students is more than just the academics that are taught.  At least - academics are only a piece of the puzzle.And if academics are like a puzzle... then the teacher-student relationship is the table that you build the puzzle on.And, the conversation that I had on this week's podcast is simply amazing.Johnny Tiersma, 6th grade teacher and children's book author, knows a thing or two about building relationships with students.  His 16+ years in education has taught him that teaching the curriculum starts with building a positive classroom community.  And he doesn't only KNOW this - he's passionate about it.So, when he reached out to me to share his 10 truths about building a classroom community - it was a no brainer.This isn't your average conversation about building a classroom community.  Johnny uses not only his teaching experience, but his humor and his heart, along with a few stories to help us all learn how to build a classroom community that feels like family.FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/140Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeBook on Amazon: If I Were the TeacherBook website: www.ifiweretheteacher.comConnect with Johnny on Social Media:www.twitter.com/johnnytiersmawww.instagram.com/mrjohnnyteachwww.instagram.com/ifiweretheteacher

WE ARE ALL GUILTY OF BEING THE LAST CAR IN THE SCHOOL PARKING LOT FROM TIME TO TIME.There's always one more thing to do.  One more set of copies to make. One more…one more.And then it becomes a pattern.  Staying late at school night after night…  Bringing home work to complete on the weekends becomes the norm.Before you know it - you're THAT teacher who has no boundaries and feels like their work day as no end and no beginning.Today on the podcast, we're going to talk about something that I was NOT the best at when I was in the classroom. When I first started teaching I didn't have any kids yet, I wasn't married, and I didn't have a lot at home that I had to devote my time to. So - I poured all of my time and energy into teaching and being in the classroom.  And, quite honestly, I could do that because of my circumstances, but that didn't really set me up for success later when I did have a family and I did need to prioritize a work/home balance.  When we don't develop a healthy balance, we start to establish some bad habits.This week, I'm interviewing Kristen Donegan of Easy Teaching Tools.  Kristen Donegan has been an elementary school teacher and Reading Specialist since 2005 in both California and O'ahu, Hawaii. She has enjoyed teaching kindergarten, first grade, a 1/2 combo, and second grade before resigning to continue Easy Teaching Tools Inc. and raise her daughter & son. Kristen has also presented at professional development conferences such as SDE Nationals and Teach Your Heart Out. Founded in 2010, Easy Teaching Tools has helped over a thousand busy teachers implement classroom hacks to save time, implement research-based practices to meet the needs of their students, and focus on work-life balance.Kristen is sharing how teachers can take their time back and be that teacher that leaves at their contracted time, AND doesn't have to feel bad or guilty for doing so!FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/139LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODEConnect with Kristen at Easy Teaching Tools: InstagramFacebookBlogPodcastGrab Kristen's FREE Sub Plans Template HERE!

AS TEACHERS, WE ALL HAVE STORIES TO TELL.  When you start out as a first year teacher, you're just beginning a the first chapter.  And boy, oh boy the story of teaching sure has its turns, its ups and downs, and its surprising events! Sometimes our stories feel like that dark and stormy night ... (2020 anyone?)While other times you get to play the hero and win the battle! My story as a teacher sure has been all that and more.  When I first began teaching 2006, I had NO IDEA where my story would lead me (none of us do!).And while I'm still in the middle of my teaching story, we've come to an exciting chapter!It's the "LINKtivity Learning Turn 1 Year Old" chapter!And we're celebrating! FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/138Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeLearn more about the LINKtivity® Learning membership.

NOT SO “NEWS FLASH”: TEACHERS DO MORE THAN JUST TEACH ACADEMICS…Teachers wear a lot of hats, and if we're being truly honest, our jobs come with so many more responsibilities than just teaching reading, writing, math, science, and so on.We're often asked to play many other roles like counselor, parent, comforter, and friend.  Our students come to us with not just academic needs, but also emotional and social needs, too.  And to ignore these needs would be a disservice to everyone!Whether it is in our job description or not, supporting the whole child - academically, socially, and emotionally just comes with the territory.That's why, today I wanted to revisit an interview I did about a year ago with Victoria from The Mindful Apple.  Victoria is a social worker at an elementary school and she's been on the podcast several times as our resident expert for all things social emotional learning.In our conversation, Victoria is going to talk to us, specifically, about growth mindset and the importance for classroom teachers to embrace social emotional learning instruction in their everyday teaching.Because, as you already know - whether or not you are trained as a social worker or not (and likely, you are not) teachers are still being called on now more than ever to help students with their social emotional needs.  Specifically in this interview, Victoria gives us a great foundation for helping our students develop a growth mindset over a fixed mindset.In this conversation she'll share practical ways for teachers to help their students in their classroom.  FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/137Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeEPISODE 60: Easy Calming Strategies for Elementary StudentsEPISODE 86: Making Social Emotional Learning MORE Than a BuzzwordRESOURCE: FREE Growth Mindset Sort Victoria's Social Emotional Learning Curriculum Connect with Victoria:Join The Mindful Apple community for your weekly brain food : tips, strategies, and resources for your social emotional tool kit! Shop social emotional resources for the elementary classroomLearn with Victoria at TheMindfulApple.comLearn more about the LINKtivity® Learning membership.

GOOGLE SLIDES: TECH TIPToday's tip isf for all my Google Slide users out there!  You know how sometimes you have a large, lengthy Google Slides presentation, but you only need a few of the slides at a time?If you've ever used one of my units before, whether it's a science unit or a social studies unit, or even one of my reading units, then you know that my units come with a Google Slides presentation for the digital version of the student activities.  I always have printable and digital versions for students, and the digital version is provided in Google Slides.For easy of navigating the unit for the teacher, I provide all the student resources that are used for the daily lessons in one large Google Slides presentation.  This makes it easy for teachers to review all the resources that they will need for their unit.  FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/136LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODEWatch the Video Tutorial HERE. Unit Studies:Science Social StudiesReadingOther “Tech Tip” Episodes: EPISODE 104: Classroom Technology Tip: YouTube Hack for Teachers!EPISODE 110: Google Slides Teacher Hack: How to Make an Infinite Cloner on an Image or ObjectEPISODE 116: Google Slides Tip: How to View Students Working on THEIR Digital Device from YOUR Digital DeviceFollow The Classroom Nook on Instagram

What if teaching writing didn't have to be such a struggle?When it comes to writing, teachers and students face many challenges.  Not enough time, not enough motivation, not enough resources.But Megan Polk, from The Literacy Dive is about to change the game when it comes to teaching writing in the elementary classroom.Megan knows what it's like to work with students who lack basic writing skills.  She understands the busy everyday schedule that teachers are working with to try to squeeze in writing.  She gets the demands of a 21st century classroom and the struggle to make writing a priority. BUT, Megan knows how to make it work!In our conversation, Megan brings all her experience and knowledge and shares with us how to get your students writing…AND have fun doing it!FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/135Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodePOST: Giving Students More Choice in the ClassroomGrab Megan's FREE Writing Prompts HERE.Keep in Touch with Megan:InstagramPodcastWebsite

INTERVIEW WITH:  SARA MARYEHave you heard the phrase “science of reading” and been afraid to ask EXACTLY what it means? (ignorance is bliss, right?)Are your worried that it's just one more NEW thing to add to your teacher plate? (Not ANOTHER reading program!)Good News!  I've brought on special guest, Sara Marye from The Stellar Teacher to break it all down for us (and spoiler alert - it's NOT another new curriculum that you have to learn)In fact, the science of reading is NOTHING new, at all - it's been around for decades.  In our conversation, Sara walks us through what exactly the science of reading is and the important implications for the classroom.FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/134LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODEGrab Sara's Cheat Sheet HERE.Podcast Series on Science Of Reading:Episode #85: What is the Science of Reading and Why is It Important?Episode #86: Understanding Phonological and Phonemic Awareness with Michelle from the Colorful ClassroomEpisode #87: Breaking Down the Elements of Language ComprehensionEpisode #88: Science of Reading Q&ARecommended Reading:Teaching Phonics & Word Study by Wiley BlevinsSpeech to Print by Louisa Cook MoatsThe Reading Comprehension Blueprint by Nancy HennessyWhere to find Sara Marye:The Stellar TeacherMembershipInstagram

WHAT DO KLEENEX AND LINKTIVITIES HAVE IN COMMON?Kleenex and LINKtivities don't have an obvious connection, so let me explain.You see - when you have a runny nose or need to sneeze you have no doubt what you need, right?You need a Kleenex.When you need to wipe away a few tears…You grab a Kleenex.Kleenex has become so synonymous with the word “tissue” that no one looks at you funny when you ask for a Kleenex (a totally made up word) - they know exactly what you mean.Kleenex is a household name and boxes of Kleenex can be found in homes all over the world.You know what else is a made up word?  LINKtivity.You know what else can be found in classrooms all over the world?  LINKtivities.And we are on a mission to make LINKtivity a classroom name.  A name that is synonymous with engaging and interactive 21st century instruction.That might feel like a bold statement, but that's how passionate and motivated we are to make an impact with LINKtivities in classrooms all over the world.We believe in them.  Teachers believe in them.  And students are impacted by them.FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/133LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODESign up HERE for details about the Back to School with LINKtivity® Event.Follow LINKtivity® Learning on Instagram Join our email family to be sure not to miss out on how to make an impact with LINKtivities this school year.

Interview with:  Jerry KolberToday I have an amazing guest!  His name is Jerry Kolber, and Jerry is the co-founder and CEO of edutainment company Atomic Entertainment Group. He is also an Emmy-nominated co-creator and showrunner of Nat Geo's biggest hit series Brain Games and Netflix's Brainchild with Pharrell Williams. He began his career within the production auditing department of New York Undercover has worked in the entertainment field with networks like Disney, Bravo, HBO, National Geographic, Animal Planet and MTV. Overall, Jerry has written, produced, supervised, and run over 400 episodes of various premium television and streaming content pieces.Today, Jerry is focused on education - specifically changing the game to create a system that helps children learn without stamping them all out of the same mold along the way. He is now the voice behind Who Smarted?, a podcast that's aimed at children ages 6 to 10. Each episode teaches kids something new through humor, stories, and even interactive games. Within just one year, they've hit 3 million downloads for the show.FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/132Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeListen to the “Who Smarted?” Podcast HERE.Receive ALL 52 Brainchild Lesson Plans and Activity Handouts FREE! SIGN UP NOW!Sign up HERE to join Space Camp. Join LINKtivity Learning

SO SUMMER IS REALLY ENDING, EH?Well - we are moving on from summer (ready or not) as we head into a new school.August is a weird time for teachers because some of you are already back at school, and some of you have a couple weeks left of summer (but, let's be honest, are likely already thinking about school)Teachers are all over the map right now, depending on where you are in the country (or even the world).  However - I think today's topic will really help ground us all as we start a new school year.One of the ways that I want to help you kick off a new school year is by sharing 3 questions that every teacher should ask themselves before they start a new year.  And if you've already started, ask yourself these now- it's not too late.FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/131Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeDownload the August calendar of events HERE.EPISODE 34: Routines and Procedures Every TEACHER NeedsEPISODE 97: Creating a Multimedia Classroom Part 1EPISODE 98: Creating a Multimedia Classroom Part 2POST: Back to School Series: Setting Up Classroom Routines and Procedures

August is a crazy busy time as teachers are preparing for Back to School!In this episode, learn some amazing ways that you can save both time and money as you prepare for a new school year!From site-wide sales, to flash sales, to giveaways and other fun events...don't miss all that we've got going on in August!Be sure to download our "August Calendar of Savings" to get all the details and links!CLICK HERE for complete show notes----------------------LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE:Summer Teacher Road TripTeachers Pay TeachersThe Classroom Nook Teacher ShopAugust Calendar of SavingsThe Classroom Nook on InstagramLINKtivity Learning Membership

Teacher Summer Road Trip 2022:  Week 8This summer we are revisiting some of the most popular tourist destinations (aka popular podcast episodes) of the 2021-2022 school year.Each week join us here on the podcast as we revisit these action-packed, and idea-inspiring episodes as your rest, and refuel for the upcoming school year.This week's stop:  Gamification in the Upper Elementary ClassroomDestination Highlights:What is gamification and how does it work in the classroom?Easy ways you can make learning feel more like playingHow to gamify every day learning...without a lot of workFOR COMPLETE SHOWNOTES FROM THE ORIGINAL EPISODE: CLICK HERE------------------------LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE:Click HERE to listen to the TED talk with Paul AndersonLearning Game Apps:KahootQuizletJoin the LINKtivity Learning Membership and get access to my entire vault of LINKtivity Interactive Learning Guides - Click HERE to join.

Teacher Summer Road Trip 2022:  Week 7This summer we are revisiting some of the most popular tourist destinations (aka popular podcast episodes) of the 2021-2022 school year.Each week join us here on the podcast as we revisit these action-packed, and idea-inspiring episodes as your rest, and refuel for the upcoming school year.This week's destination: Top Questions to Ask Before Starting Readers and Writers WorkshopHighlights from the episode:How to set yourself (& your students) up for success right from the startWhy your reading and writing environment mattersWhat you should be teaching at the beginning of the year (it might now be what you think)FOR COMPLETE SHOWNOTES FROM THE ORIGINAL EPISODE: CLICK HERE-------------------LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODEEPISODE 29: How to Launch Reader's Workshop in Your ClassroomEPISODE 30:  How to Launch Writer's Workshop in the Upper Elementary ClassroomEPISODE 62: Why You Need a "Share Chair" In Your Reading and Writing WorkshopRESOURCES:IntelliScanner (affiliate link)Online catalog like Book Source Classroom Organizer.  Smart phone apps like iBookshelf, Book Crawler, and Book Buddy  Launching Reader's and Writer's Workshop Bundle Grab these TWO FREEBIES:Teacher's Guide to Reader's Workshop Teacher's Guide to Writer's Workshop 

Teacher Summer Road Trip 2022:  Week 6This summer we are revisiting some of the most popular tourist destinations (aka popular podcast episodes) of the 2021-2022 school year.Each week join us here on the podcast as we revisit these action-packed, and idea-inspiring episodes as your rest, and refuel for the upcoming school year.This week's podcast destination:   Top Classroom Technology Mistakes Teachers Make (and how to fix them) Highlights:Why you shouldn't be using tech for tech sakeThe #1 reason why technology use fails in the classroomHow to simplify technology use in your classroom for better successCLICK HERE for complete show notes----------------------Links & Resources mentioned in this episode:EPISODE 95:  What is a 21st Century Classroom??EPISODE 97: Creating a Multimedia Classroom (Part 1: What the Research Says)EPISODE 98: Creating a Multimedia Classroom (Part 2: Applications for the Classroom)EPISODE 99: Classroom Technology: A Simple Model for Using it EffectivelyFree Classroom Technology Management KitJoin the LINKtivity Learning Membership and get access to my entire vault of LINKtivity Interactive Learning Guides - Click HERE to join.

Teacher Summer Road Trip 2022:  Week 5This summer we are revisiting some of the most popular tourist destinations (aka popular podcast episodes) of the 2021-2022 school year.Each week join us here on the podcast as we revisit these action-packed, and idea-inspiring episodes as your rest, and refuel for the upcoming school year.This week's podcast destination:  Finding Balance with Print and Digital ResourcesHighlights:Balancing technology and offline activities in the classroomHow to evaluate the purpose of technology (is it worth it?)Questions every teacher needs to ask before using technology.CLICK HERE for complete show notesLinks & Resources mentioned in this episode:EPISODE 57: Accountable Talk: A Teacher's Guide to Encouraging Deeper & More Meaningful Talk Among Students EPISODE 99: Classroom Technology: A Simple Model for Using it EffectivelyGrab by FREE Nonfiction Text Features Linktivity HERE.Join the LINKtivity Learning Membership and get access to my entire vault of LINKtivity Interactive Learning Guides - Click HERE to join.

Teacher Summer Road Trip 2022:  Week 4This summer we are revisiting some of the most popular tourist destinations (aka popular podcast episodes) of the 2021-2022 school year.Each week join us here on the podcast as we revisit these action-packed, and idea-inspiring episodes as your rest, and refuel for the upcoming school year.This week's podcast destination:  Creating a Multimedia ClassroomHighlights:What the research says about the effects of multimedia (and why you need to know!)How to support your digital native students in a digital worldHow to create a meaningful media-rich learning environmentCLICK HERE For Complete Show Notes----------------------Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeJoin our email family for exclusive Flash FREEBIES and Hot Summer DealsEPISODE 95: What is a 21st Century Classroom?RESOURCE: Discovery Learning FoldersEPISODE 94: 3 Tips for Increasing Student Success (That You Can Start Using TODAY!)EPISODE 96: How to Make Your Next Lesson Plan Ridiculously Amazing!ARTICLE: Understanding Multimedia LearningJoin the LINKtivity Learning Membership and get access to my entire vault of LINKtivity Interactive Learning Guides - Click HERE to join.

TEACHER SUMMER ROAD TRIP 2022:  WEEK 3This summer we are revisiting some of the most popular tourist destinations (aka popular podcast episodes) of the 2021-2022 school year.Each week join us here on the podcast as we revisit these action-packed, and idea-inspiring episodes as your rest, and refuel for the upcoming school year.This week's podcast destination:  Essential Components of ANY Successful LessonHighlights:How to put students in the driver's seat in your classroomThe importance of variety in your lesson (and how to provide it)Why you lesson needs multimediaCLICK HERE for complete show notes---------------Links & Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Join our email family for exclusive Flash FREEBIES and Hot Summer DealsEPISODE 45: How to Use Rubrics for Assessment AND InstructionEPISODE 55: Easy Tips to Boost Student Participation While Building a Strong Classroom CommunityEPISODE 90: Using Podcasts in the Elementary ClassroomEPISODE 91: The TRUTH About Learning StylesEPISODE 94: 3 Tips for Increasing Student SuccessJoin the LINKtivity Learning Membership and get access to my entire vault of LINKtivity Interactive Learning Guides - Click HERE to join.

Teacher Summer Road Trip 2022:  Week 2This summer we are revisiting some of the most popular tourist destinations (aka popular podcast episodes) of the 2021-2022 school year.Each week join us here on the podcast as we revisit these action-packed, and idea-inspiring episodes as your rest, and refuel for the upcoming school year.This week's podcast destination:  3 Tips to Increase Student SuccessHighlights:How to NOT overwhelm your students with too much informationHow to present new information with familiar tasksEliminating barriers to successCLICK HERE for Complete Show Notes------------------Links & Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Join our email family for exclusive Flash FREEBIES and Hot Summer DealsEPISODE 91: The TRUTH About Learning StylesJoin the LINKtivity Learning Membership and get access to my entire vault of LINKtivity Interactive Learning Guides - Click HERE to join.CLICK HERE to get your first LINKtivity FREE

TEACHER SUMMER ROAD TRIP 2022:  WEEK 1This summer we are revisiting some of the most popular tourist destinations (aka popular podcast episodes) of the 2021-2022 school year.Each week join us here on the podcast as we revisit these action-packed, and idea-inspiring episodes as your rest, and refuel for the upcoming school year.This week's podcast destination: What is a 21st Century Classroom.Highlights Include:The role of technology in the modern classroomEssential components for every 21st century classroomHow to get started in creating  classroom design to support today's studentsCLICK HERE For Complete Show Notes--------------Links & Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Join our email family for exclusive Flash FREEBIES and Hot Summer Deals EPISODE 45: How to Use Rubrics for Assessment AND InstructionEPISODE 55: Easy Tips to Boost Student Participation While Building a Strong Classroom CommunityEPISODE 90: Using Podcasts in the Elementary ClassroomEPISODE 91: The TRUTH About Learning StylesEPISODE 94: 3 Tips for Increasing Student SuccessJoin the LINKtivity Learning Membership and get access to my entire vault of LINKtivity Interactive Learning Guides - Click HERE to join.

TEACHERS:  RAISE YOUR HAND IF YOU'RE READY FOR SUMMER!As we finally are winding down our school year, I know that the routines and everyday activities of a teacher change drastically.  For one - once school is out for summer (woot woot), you likely will NOT be commuting anymore.  Unless you teach summer school, your classroom commute comes to a halt as you can finally enjoy less hectic days, actually drink your coffee hot (amen!), and let's be honest – use the bathroom whenever you want (I mean…)!So, that's why here on the podcast, we are trading in our classroom commute for a Teacher Summer Road Trip (que the car tunes)!The idea for a summer road trip here on the podcast came to me last summer and I thought: Wouldn't it be fun if we traveled together each week this summer, visiting some of the most popular tourist destinations (AKA - most popular podcast episodes) from the last year? Well - it turned out to be a huge hit. So - I'm inviting you to come with me again on the 2022 Teacher Summer Road Trip!FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/121-------------------------LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE:>> CLICK HERE to Join us for the Summer Teacher Road Trip!  You'll be all set to be included in our weekly FLASH FREEBIES and HOT SUMMER DEALS!

ANYONE CAN CREATE A VIDEO.Anyone.ESPECIALLY teachers and students!We're back with another installment of H(APPY)-Hour (That's happy, with an emphasis on App). In these H(APP)Y Hour episodes, I highlight a cool app or educational technology tool for teachers and students to use in the classroom, and today I've got a good one for you.Today's app is a video creation app that's easy enough for young students to use and offers endless options for using videos in the classroom.FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/120Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeClick HERE to sign up for Screencast-O-Matic (it's FREE).Everything you need to know about Screencast-O-Matic. Screencast-O-Matic: Video Tutorials 

THE SUMMER SLIDE IS A REAL THING.Unfortunately.It's that time in the summer where students' brains flip the “off” switch and go into mush-mode. When they emerge in the fall, they've lost some of that academic progress that they made with you during the school year. (womp-womp)It happens.  And it's not your fault.  But - we can put into place a few preventative measures to help keep the summer slide less dramatic.The thing is - I DO think students need a break.  They do need to just relax and chill - just like their tired teachers do (pssst:  that's your reminder to take a break, too!).BUT - we also can give students some fun opportunities for learning at home.  However, it's learning that looks more like playing and exploring.I want to share 8 things that student can do — that they will WANT to do — over the summer to keep their brains fine-tuned.FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/119Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeClick HERE for Take-Home Summer Activities (Includes Map Skills, Spin a Story, Library Scavenger Hunt, Reading, Science, 16 Activity Cards, and more. Summer Take-Home Kits:MathScienceJoin the LINKtivity® Learning Membership and get access to my entire vault of LINKtivity Interactive Learning Guides including LINKtivity Learning Summer Camp - CLICK HERE to join.

THERE'S ALWAYS SO MUCH TO DO BEFORE SUMMER VACATION.Before you can turn in your classroom keys for the summer you likely have paperwork to complete, reorganizing your classroom cabinets, closets, and drawers —all those things that got in disarray in the thick of the school year.And if you've ever been that last teacher out the door sailing off into summer vacay mode - then you know how painful it can be!  (Trust me - I've been there more times than I care to count!)So, let's not let it happen again, mmmk?What if you could be the FIRST teacher checkin' out for the summer?  What if you had your classroom, cleaned, prepped, organized, and ready for custodial approval ….EARLY?Sounds lovely.The secret to making it all happen?  Don't do it all yourself!  Instead of waiting till your students leave on that last day of school to get your classroom in order, enlist the help of your students to get it done FASTER!  And you know what - students actually LOVE to help you clean and organize your classroom.  It's a win-win.Now, before you start passing out garbage bags, sponges, and cleaning sprays - you need to have a METHOD to the madness.  And that's what this episode is all about.  I'll show you exactly how I successfully and methodically had my students help me prepare my classroom for the summer.For complete show notes visit:  classroomnook.com/podcast/118Links & Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Grab my FREE Classroom Clean-Up Tasks

LET'S TALK ABOUT CYBERBULLYINGOver the past couple of months I've been peppering in conversations about digital citizenship.  Every few weeks or so, I've focused on different aspects of digital citizenship.  We've discussed helping our students understand the concept of media balance, how to teach them about privacy and security online, and how to be mindful of the digital footprint that they are leave behind.These are all great topics of digital citizenship to weave into our every day conversations as students are interactive online and on digital devices.But today, I'm going to talk about the one element of digital citizenship that keeps me up at night:  cyberbullying.I have two young kids myself, and I worry about what online life is going to be like when they reach the age of being on social media and interacting online.  It's already a scary place out there online, especially for young, vulnerable kids.So, that's why we can't leave the conversation of “cyberbullying” up to anyone else.  This topic might be one of the most important digital citizenship concepts that we teach students.  And in this podcast episode, I want to explore how teachers can help be part of conversation.FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/117Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeEPISODE 102: Digital Citizenship: Making Healthy Media Choices and Finding BalanceEPISODE 106: Digital Citizenship (Helping Elementary Students Understand Privacy & Security Online)EPISODE 112: Digital Citizenship: Teaching Students About the Digital Footprint They Leave Behind

MONITORING STUDENTS WORKING JUST GOT EASIER!I've got a super cool Google Slides tip to share with your today. I want to share how you can easily get a quick view of your students all working on THEIR own digital device from YOUR device.  Whether you're an avid user of Google Slides or just use it here and there - you're going to LOVE this tip.  And, here's the cool thing - your students don't even need to have a Google account.  You don't even need to be using Google Classroom in your classroom.  The teacher only will simply need a Google account his/herself, and the ability to share a link with students.FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/116Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeClick HERE to watch the Video TutorialQR Code Generator 

PLAYING IS LEARNINGOver 10 years ago I started a blog called The Classroom Game Nook blog.  I started it because I am a big fan of finding ways to make learning more fun for students.  When learning is fun, motivation, engagement, and student success often follow.On my blog the Classroom GAME Nook, I shared all the ways that I used fun and games in the classroom.  And, although over the years I dropped the word “game” from my title, and am now just The Classroom Nook, I certainly did not stop striving to find ways to make learning fun through games.I want to explore gamification in the classroom.  Gamification is a term that we've heard pop up in the education world lately.  Kids love games.  When they play games, they have fun, and when they have fun: they learn.  So, what is it about games that are so attractive?  And how can we capture those elements and apply it to other areas in the classroom?  Well - that's exactly what we're about to explore.FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/115Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeClick HERE to listen to the TED talk with Paul AndersonLearning Game Apps:KahootQuizlet

NO ONE LIKES CHANGEIt's no secret that I am a big fan of shaking things up in the classroom and swapping out old, stale ways of teaching and replacing them with modern 21st century teaching practices.Now, you would think that I welcome change with open arms because of how often I talk about applying and trying out new teaching methods, or a new cool classroom technology tool.And of course, you might think that I'm quick to abandon traditional teaching methods by how often I talk about LINKtivites - my solution to making learning fun and engaging by providing students with a multimedia learning experience.Well, guess what.  No - I don't like change.  I'm not always the first one to adopt something new.  I'm often tardy to the party when it comes to trends.But - what I do have going for me that often helps me go outside my comfort zone is my desire to provide the best possible learning experience for students.  In today's episode I'm sharing with you a replay of an episode I did in early 2021 about 4 alternatives to teaching from a textbook. Textbooks seem to be that tried and true tool that teachers have had forever.  But - if I'm being honest - I've never seen a student get excited about reading from a textbook.  And likewise - I've never seen a teacher get excited either.In this episode, learn about four 21st century teaching methods that you can apply to your classroom today to replace teaching from a boring, or outdated textbook.For complete show notes visit:  classroomnook.com/podcast/114---------------LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE:POST: Five Reasons Why You Should Use Reader's Theater in the Upper Elementary ClassroomRESOURCES:  Discovery Learning FoldersNative American Regions in North America Political Decisions Made During the Civil WarBiomes Early European ExplorersMajor Battles of the American RevolutionPOST: Engaging Your Students With LINKtivity Interactive Learning Guides (Plus grab a FREE LINKtivity!)LINKtivity® Learning Membership  (Get a FREE 7-Day Trial!)

CHOICE IS A POWERFUL MOTIVATOR.Studies have show the benefit of giving students choice in their learning.  One of the ways teachers do this is by implementing the use of choice boards in the classroom.A choice board is simply a collection of activities (they can be digital, nondigital, or a combination), usually formatted visually on a grid.  Students are then invited to choose one or more of those activities to complete.  They are the ones choosing which activity interests them.  So - right away, they are taking ownership of their learning.FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/113LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODEEPISODE 91: The TRUTH About Learning StylesJoin the LINKtivity® Learning Membership and get access to my entire vault of LINKtivity Interactive Learning Guides - CLICK HERE to join.

DIGITAL FOOTPRINTS LAST FOREVER.And that's not an exaggeration.I'm sure I don't have to tell you that one action online can impact you for a long time.  One comment on social media (good or bad) can go viral and become impossible to stop.Once the internet gets a hold of something, we can quickly lose control.  We've seen this in both positive and negative situations.  We've seen the hilarious cat videos go viral or a feel-good story spread from coast to coast.But - we've also seen situations where something gets out of hand, or something is taken out of context and then spreads far and wide online.  Maybe you've experienced this first-hand. It can be heartbreaking and devastating to the people involved.What we say and do online can have a lasting impact.  Once it's out there in the world, it essentially lasts forever.However, our students don't always think beyond the moment (Heck - many adults don't think beyond the moment).  They don't always consider that what they say and do online can leave behind a digital footprint.   And - this digital footprint can shape their identity and impact their online AND offline reputation.That's why it's so important to start young, teaching students the responsibilities they have as digital citizens.  The sooner we start to train kids to think about their actions online and the digital footprints that they leave behind, the better.FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/112LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODEEPISODE 102: Digital Citizenship: Making Healthy Media Choices and Finding BalanceEPISODE 106: Digital Citizenship (Helping Elementary Students Understand Privacy & Security Online)Join the LINKtivity® Learning Membership and get access to my entire vault of LINKtivity Interactive Learning Guides - CLICK HERE to join.

Are you committing one of these technology mistakes in your classroom?I know I sure have from time to time.As our classrooms become more and more digital-friendly and as we integrate more and more technology instruction, we're bound to run into a few snags along the way. We try sooo hard to provide students with 21st century learning experiences;  experiences that often include technology and multimedia with all the other bells and whistles.The intention is good, but the execution sometimes hits a snag.  I wanted to share my own experiences of the challenges I have had with classroom technology, the mistakes I've made, and the ways that I've tried to avoid making these same mistakes over and over.FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/111Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeEPISODE 95:  What is a 21st Century Classroom??EPISODE 97: Creating a Multimedia Classroom (Part 1: What the Research Says)EPISODE 98: Creating a Multimedia Classroom (Part 2: Applications for the Classroom)EPISODE 99: Classroom Technology: A Simple Model for Using it Effectively

DON'T YOU JUST LOVE A GOOD TEACHER HACK?I sure do, and in this episode of The Classroom Commute podcast - I've got a good one!  If you have ever used a Smartboard before, the you're likely familiar with the concept of an infinite cloner.  This feature allows you to have an object or image on the screen that students can reproduce, or clone, over and over and over - as many times as they'd like.  This feature comes in handy in a lot of scenarios.  However - this feature is NOT available inside of Google Slides - or is it?While the infinite cloner may not be a feature in Google Slides, I know of a little hack that will get the job done and work just as good!FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/110------------------------------------Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeEPISODE 53: Using a Reading Genre Wheel to Encourage Reading VarietyEPISODE 31: How to Use a Reader's and Writer's Notebook in the Upper Elementary ClassroomGrab the Done-for-You Reader's Notebook HEREGrab the Done-for-You Writer's Notebook HEREVIDEO TUTORIAL: How To Create an Infinite Clone in Google Slides

EFFORTLESSLY DESIGN CLASSROOM RESOURCES!We're back with another installment of a fun new series that I've started here in 2022 called “H(APPY)” Hour.  That's happy with an emphasis on APP.  In this series I'm sharing a must-try app that teachers can use for themselves or with their students.  And in today's APPY Hour, I'm going to share about an app is use absolutely every single day without fail!It's called Canva and it's one of the best apps out there for creating amazing resources for students, eye catching images, and even videos!  Seriously - if you have not heard of this app, you're in for a treat.If you a DIYer like I was in the classroom and love creating fun resources for your students - Canva is a must-have.  If you have a teacher Instagram or even a classroom Facebook group - Canva is a must-have. If you love creating digital anchor slides for your morning work, or for really, anything in your classroom —then stick around because I'm going to share with you the power that is Canva!FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/109-------------------------------------------Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeCheck out Canva HERE.Join the LINKtivity Learning Membership and get access to my entire vault of LINKtivity Interactive Learning Guides - CLICK HERE to join.

HAVE YOU BEEN WONDERING IF LINKTIVITIES ARE RIGHT FOR YOU & YOUR STUDENTS?Back in September of 2021, I embarked on a new journey and for the first time I opened the doors to LINKtivity® Learning.  It's a membership designed to give teachers an unlimited all-access pass to my entire library of LINKtivity® interactive learning guides.LINKtivities support teachers who want to give their students a multimedia learning experience that not only helps them develop 21st century skills, but also effortlessly engages and motivates students to learn.I've been getting a lot of questions lately about the LINKtivity® Learning membership - which is my #1 way that I support teachers these days.  And - I've been getting a lot of the same questions - so in this episode, I'm gonna get into the nitty gritty.  I'll help you decide if LINKtivity® Learning is right for you. I'm answering all your questions and everything you could possibly want to know about LINKtivities, including some very exciting new things we are working on behind the scenes.FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES VISIT:  classroomnook.com/podcast/108---------------------------Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeEPISODE 100: 10 Ways to Use LINKtivity® Interactive Learning Guides in the ClassroomContact me HERE to stay “in the know” on when my LINKtivity Membership will be available outside the USA or if you have any further questions.  Preview entire LINKtivity® Library Join the LINKtivity® Learning Membership and get access to my entire vault of LINKtivity Interactive Learning Guides - CLICK HERE to join.CLICK HERE to grab a FREE LINKtivity® on Nonfiction Text Features

How much digital learning is too much?Does using pen and paper still have a place for the classroom? The truth is - digital and printable, more traditional instruction can live harmoniously…together in the same classroom, even!It's all about striking a healthy balance between the two!If you've been around for a while, you've likely picked up on my love for integrating technology into your daily instruction and I do think that using multimedia activities is essential for a 21st century classroom.  However, I also think that balancing multimedia activities with tried-and-true teaching practices is powerful as well.I want to share what I think a good technology balance looks like in the elementary classroom.  I want you to walk away from this episode feeling empowered to continue using those best practices that do NOT involve technology right alongside 21st century activities that will expose students to new technology.  It doesn't need to be an either/or situation.  Technology and non-digital resources can coexist - and they should.  We can use technology to complement other meaningful teaching practices. Providing this balance in your classroom will help students to see the importance of balancing technology use with offline interactions in their daily lives as well.LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODEEPISODE 57: Accountable Talk: A Teacher's Guide to Encouraging Deeper & More Meaningful Talk Among Students EPISODE 99: Classroom Technology: A Simple Model for Using it EffectivelyGrab by FREE Nonfiction Text Features Linktivity here.Join the LINKtivity Learning Membership and get access to my entire vault of LINKtivity Interactive Learning Guides - CLICK HERE to join.

PRIVACY AND SECURITY ARE TWO WORDS THAT CAN HAVE A MASSIVE IMPACT ON STUDENTS' ONLINE INTERACTIONS.Digital citizenship has a lot of moving parts.  Teaching our students to be responsible digital citizens is the job of all the important adults in their lives, including their classroom teachers.Here on the podcast we've been breaking down this larger idea of being a good digital citizen into small, more manageable chunks and in this episode we're talking about a super important aspect of digital citizenship and that is - security and privacy.  Oooof - that's a biggie and one that may not always seem like something young students need to worry about, but they do.  In fact, we can start at a very young age helping kids to see how to protect and respect others online, including themselves.As a 21st century classroom, security and privacy can play a huge role as students are learning to become more independent online and begin exploring online.  We want that to be a good thing — we want them to be able to use the amazing digital tools that are available to them, but above all, we want them to be safe about it and know how to protect themselves.LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODEEPISODE 102: Digital Citizenship: Making Healthy Media Choices and Finding BalanceFor complete show notes visit:  classroomnook.com/podcast/106

WHAT MAKES SOMEONE A GREAT READER? Ask any elementary student and you'd likely hear responses like:“Great readers can read fast.”“Great readers use expression.”“Great readers can read all the words correctly.”These answers are all correct, however, we want students to understand that reading is more than just being able to read the words on the page.  What we really want students to be doing while they read is thinking!That's where reading comprehension strategies come in.  Reading strategy instruction gives students a guideline for how to think about what they are reading.  Educational experts call this “metacognition,” which can be defined as “thinking about thinking.”  This concept is at the heart of why we teach and encourage students to use reading strategies.  Students need to understand that thinking is essential to reading. Today is the first of 8 episodes on the topic of reading comprehension instruction. We will go over a new strategy each month starting next week and ending in May. I can't wait to share with you some tools and some strategies that you can pass on to your students to help improve their reading comprehension.Buckle up as I share with you some helpful tips, strategies, and resources for teaching your students reading comprehension. For complete snow notes visit:  classroomnook.com/podcast/105------------------LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODEReading Comprehension Strategies Podcast Episodes: EPISODE 41: Teaching Reading Comprehension StrategiesEPISODE 42: Reading Comprehension Instruction: How to Teach Making ConnectionsEPISODE 47: Reading Comprehension Strategies: How to Teach VisualizingEPISODE 51: Reading Comprehension Strategies: How to Teach Making PredictionsEPISODE 56: Boost Reading Comprehension: A Simple Approach to Teaching Students to Ask Questions While ReadingEPISODE 59: A Step-By-Step Guide to Teaching Determining Importance in the Upper Elementary ClassroomEPISODE 64: Helping Your Students Make Inferences When They Read Constructing Meaning Through Kid-Friendly Comprehension Strategy Instruction by Nancy Boyles (affiliate link)Grab my FREE Reading Comprehension Strategy cards

This is the YouTube Hack You've been Needing!YouTube can be an amazing learning tool for students.  Need a video on teaching nonfiction text features?  There's a video for that.How about a fun science video on phases of the moon?  Yep - there's one (or a hundred!) of those, too!With all the free content that is available on YouTube, there is NO shortage of topics to find.However, with a free platform like YouTube comes annoying ads that show up before your video, distracting sidebars with video suggestions that can easily derail your students' attention, and a comment section that sometimes can get hostile or inappropriate.  Well - there is a way to bypass ALL of that and get straight to the video, in full-screen mode!In this episode I'll show you a simple YouTube Hack that every teacher needs for sharing YouTube videos with their students.For Complete Show Notes:  classroomnook.com/podcast/104Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeVIDEO TUTORIAL: How to Share a YouTube Video WITHOUT the Suggested Videos BarVideo Tutorial Library Join the LINKtivity® Learning Membership and get access to my entire vault of LINKtivity Interactive Learning Guides - CLICK HERE to join.

READY TO GET YOUR TEACHER LIFE IN CHECK?We all have our favorite apps and digital tools that we can't live without.  Tools to keep us organized.  Tools to remind us of tasks.  The list goes one.  I love sharing my favorite digital tools and apps for teachers AND students, so I'm starting a new series on the podcast called H(APPY) Hour!And since it's January and we often focus on organization and productivity this time of year, I thought a great place to start this new series would be with my favorite app that helps me stay organized, and that app is:  Trello!In this week's episode, I'm going to share with you what Trello is and how it has helped me stay organized in the projects that I work on and in the resources that I create.  I'm also going to share how it can be a powerful organizational and productivity tool for classroom teachers, as well!  So, if you're feeling like you're all over the place when it comes to organizing your teacher brain, then this episode is perfect for youYou're gonna walk away with lots of ideas of how you can put Trello to work for you in your classroom including how you can use it in planning your curriculum and even in collaborating with other teachers!LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODEClick here to sign up for Trello. Join the LINKtivity® Learning Membership and get access to my entire vault of LINKtivity Interactive Learning Guides - CLICK HERE to join.For complete show notes visit:  classroomnook.com/podcast/103

HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH (OF A GOOD THING)?We've talked so much lately about cultivating a 21st century classroom and the components that make up a modern classroom.  And although it's fun to talk about all the bells and whistles and shiny objects that can come with a 21st century classroom - powerful and engaging components like technology and multimedia -  it's also important that we explore the other side of what it means to use technology and raise students in our digital world - and that is digital citizenship.With all the amazing things that come with implementing classroom technology, also comes responsibility.  Just as we want to prepare our students to navigate new technology, we also want to teach them the responsibility that comes with it.There's a lot to unpack when it comes to digital citizenship, and if we're going to truly teach our students what it means to be a positive digital citizen and take ownership of their digital lives, we need to approach it from a variety of angles.  In today's episode we're going to start at the foundation, which is helping our students make healthy media choices and finding balance.  Just as we want students to make healthy choices when it comes to food and moving our bodies, we want students to learn how to make healthy choices in their digital lives.  Teachers can be a part of this by modeling a healthy balance in how digital resources are used in the classroom and through the conversations we have with students as it relates to media.For complete show notes: classroomnook.com/podcast/102LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODEJoin the LINKtivity® Learning Membership and get access to my entire vault of LINKtivity Interactive Learning Guides - CLICK HERE to join.

The time for positivity is Now.It only takes turning on the news for a few minutes to have a negative outlook on life.Young students don't always know how to process negative situations and experiences.  Just like students need to be taught math skills, science concepts, or reading strategies, they need to also be taught the skill of positive thinking.The ability to think positively allows students to feel more in control of their own mindset, even when the situations around them feel out of their control.  Students hold the power to positivity, and in this episode, Victoria from The Mindful Apple joins us to share how teachers can help students develop the skill of positive thinking.Victoria brings with her years of experience in working with students to help develop social emotional learning skills, like positive thinking, and gives students these life skills to build stronger mental health.Links & Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeEPISODE 86: Making Social Emotional Learning MORE Than a BuzzwordEPISODE 93: Exploring Growth Mindset with Victoria from The Mindful AppleFREE RESOURCE: FREE Positivity Classroom Posters (And when you grab the free posters, you'll be entered in to win the ENTIRE Positivity Social Emotional Learning Unit)Victoria's Social Emotional Learning CurriculumConnect with Victoria:Join The Mindful Apple community for your weekly brain food : tips, strategies, and resources for your social emotional tool kit! Shop social emotional resources for the elementary classroomLearn with Victoria at TheMindfulApple.com

MAKE THE MOST OF LINKTIVITIES IN YOUR CLASSROOMIt's no secret that both teachers and students LOVE using LINKtivity® Interactive Learning Guides with their students.I hear from upper elementary classroom teachers daily just how engaged and motivated students are when they use a LINKtivity® to learn a new skill or strategy.And, when you start using LINKtivities with your students, it's kinda like a train you can't stop coming (nor do you want to!).  So- when you start using them on the regular in your classroom, it's fun to switch it up.With LINKtivities available in every content area (even seasons and holidays!) - and growing every month - changing up the ways you use LINKtivities with your students keeps it fresh and exciting!In this episode, I'm sharing 10 different ways that teachers are using LINKtivities with their students.LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODEEnter here to win a FREE YEAR of the LINKtivity® Learning Membership. VIDEO: 10 Ways to Use LINKtivities in Your Classroom Join the LINKtivity® Learning Membership and get access to my entire vault of LINKtivity Interactive Learning Guides - CLICK HERE to join.

WE OFTEN THINK THAT ALL TECH IS CREATED EQUAL…It's not.   I love using tech in the classroom as a way to engage and motivate student learning.  Tech provides opportunities to support our students in ways that other learning methods can not.  These opportunities include things like adding audio support to read text to our students, or allowing students to record their responses rather than writing something.  Technology often helps us to eliminate barriers to learning success.But - just using classroom technology for the sake of using classroom technology is not an effective model for making decisions around technology with your students.I think learning with multimedia and technology is an essential component of a 21st century classroom, but technology comes in all shapes and sizes, and in this episode, I want to introduce a simple model that we can follow when making decisions about technology in our classroom so that we can use it in the most effective way!LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODEEPISODE 95: What is a 21st Century Classroom??EPISODE 97: Creating a Multimedia Classroom (Part 1: What the Research Says)EPISODE 98: Creating a Multimedia Classroom (Part 2: Applications for the Classroom)SAMR ModelJoin the LINKtivity Learning Membership and get access to my entire vault of LINKtivity Interactive Learning Guides - CLICK HERE to join.

WANT TO CREATE A MULTIMEDIA CLASSROOM?A better questions to ask would be:  HOW do we create a multimedia classroom?Over the past couple of weeks we have been exploring what it means to be a 21st century classroom. We talked about how a 21 century classroom… includes creating a collaborative and creative environment and encourages students to reflect on their learningtakes the focus away from a teacher-directed learning approach, and puts students in the center of discovering and exploring their own knowledge.puts technology and multimedia in a larger role to create a bigger impactWe've also  unpacked what the research says about multimedia instruction and laid the groundwork for what effective multimedia instruction looks like, as well as how the brain processes multimedia and the positive impact it has on long-term learning.But - not all multimedia is created equal and if done incorrectly - it could lead to brain processing overload. It's that whole - too much of a good thing...is no longer good idea.So, let's explore how we can implement effective multimedia into daily classroom instruction.LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODEEPISODE 95: What is a 21st Century Classroom??EPISODE 97: Creating a Multimedia Classroom (Part 1: What the Research Says)RESOURCE: Discovery Learning FoldersJoin the LINKtivity Learning Membership and get access to my entire vault of LINKtivity Interactive Learning Guides - CLICK HERE to join.