Podcasts about lesson plans

Spoiler alert: Some of the best lessons don't come from a textbook. In this episode, we're talking about the learning that happens off the page—in the dirt, in the backyard, in the chicken coop, on the trail, at the playground, and in all those beautifully unplanned moments that make homeschool feel alive. From incubating quail eggs to building bike ramps, from visiting small local businesses to crafting DIY Halloween costumes, we discovered that “school” doesn't always come from a workbook. Sometimes the most meaningful lessons happen when life interrupts the plan. If you've ever felt guilty because you couldn't stick to the schedule… or because your kids learn better in the wild than at the table… this episode will breathe fresh grace into your homeschool. This is your permission slip to embrace the rabbit trails, the muddy boots, the spontaneous field trips, and the joyful chaos that actually counts as learning. Grab your coffee (or your cold reheated one

After creating course materials for a forgotten group of educators, this agricultural teacher now earns a significant income from a growing business. Side Hustle School features a new episode EVERY DAY, featuring detailed case studies of people who earn extra money without quitting their job. This year, the show includes free guided lessons and listener Q&A several days each week. Show notes: SideHustleSchool.com Email: team@sidehustleschool.com Be on the show: SideHustleSchool.com/questions Connect on Instagram: @193countries Visit Chris's main site: ChrisGuillebeau.com Read A Year of Mental Health: yearofmentalhealth.com If you're enjoying the show, please pass it along! It's free and has been published every single day since January 1, 2017. We're also very grateful for your five-star ratings—it shows that people are listening and looking forward to new episodes.

This task is designed to help ESL students improve their listening, writing, and comprehension skills through dictation practice. Students listen to sentences that include phone numbers, dates, and times, and then write the correct information on the worksheet.Lesson Plan link.Website link.

In this episode we dive into one of the biggest challenges teachers face—getting students to actually care about what they're learning. Great lesson planning isn't just about standards and objectives—it's about connection, relevance, and engagement. Join us as we explore how intentional planning can transform your lessons from “just another class” into experiences that matter to your students. Quotables “Personal growth over grades. ”"That classroom environment has to be a place where they want to take risks.""When students feel known, they feel respected, and their more likely to find meaning in what their working on. " Resources from this Episode: Always a Lesson: Teacher Essentials for Classroom and Career Success:  https://amzn.to/409AUCt Join the Always A Lesson Newsletter Join here and grab a freebie! Connect with Gretchen Email: gretchen@alwaysalesson.comBlog: Always A LessonFacebook: Always A LessonTwitter: @gschultekInstagram: Always.A.LessonLinkedin: Gretchen Schultek BridgersBook: Elementary EDUC 101: What They Didn't Teach You in College Gretchen's latest book, Always a Lesson: Teacher Essentials for Classroom and Career Success, is now available on Amazon. Leave a Rating and Review: This helps my show remain active in order to continue to help other educators remain empowered in a career that has a long-lasting effect on our future. https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/always-lessons-empowering/id1006433135?mt=2 Search for my show on iTunes or Stitcher.Click on ‘Ratings and Reviews.'Under ‘Customer Reviews,' click on “Write a Review.”Sign in with your iTunes or Stitcher log-in infoLeave a Rating: Tap the greyed out stars (5 being the best)Leave a Review: Type in a Title and Description of your thoughts on my podcastClick ‘Send' Music from #Uppbeat:

Are constant disruptions messing up your perfectly planned weeks? You're not alone! When I taught at small schools in particular, it often felt like every week held a new disruption. Between spirit weeks, fire drills, and field trips, I sometimes wondered if I'd ever get a “normal” week with my students! In this episode, I'm sharing five practical tips for lesson planning that will keep learning moving even when weeks don't go as planned.➡️ Show Notes: https://itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com/episode208Resources Mentioned:Desktop Paper CalendarDownload your FREE Classroom Reset Challenge.Take the Free Labs When Limited virtual PD courseSend me a DM on Instagram: @its.not.rocket.scienceSend me an email: rebecca@itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com  Follow, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts.Follow, rate, and comment on Spotify.Related Episodes and Blog Posts:Episode 51, 5 Alternatives to Traditional Midterm ExamsEpisode 116, Behind Schedule? What to Do and How to Prevent It in the FutureEpisode 149 Teaching on a Block Schedule - Why It's Not as Bad as You ThinkEpisode 152, Absences - How to Deal With ThemEpisode 185, When Is Preparation Worth It, and When Is It a Pipe Dream?

Sometimes we worry so much about finishing the curriculum, covering every subject, or making sure we don't ‘fall behind.' But at the end of the day, our kids won't carry with them the perfectly crafted lesson plans—we hope they carry the love, patience, and faith we've poured into them.” Join Coach Nove and her co-host Coach Heidi Dy as they talk about the heart lessons, sharing their own real stories about lesson plans and love. Heidi Tenefrancia Dy is the beloved wife of Marvin Dy a businessman. A mother of three wonderful kids, Mackenzie,Mackayla and MacKonner. She has been homeschooling for more than a decade and still counting. If you like this podcast, do subscribe, rate us and tag on our Spotify and stay tuned to the I Homeschool Ph podcast every Saturday at 10 am for fresh new topics about homeschooling life. Good News! When you buy The I Homeschool Life Planner you can get the I Homeschool Book W/o Losing Your Mind for FREE!!! Rediscover for Christmas is also buy one take one. Just click this link . chinkshop.com/products/ihomeschool-life-planner-promo-buy-1-take-1-ihomeschool-book?_pos=2&_sid=45045d272&_ss=r Check out our beacons account for more resources https://beacons.ai/ihomeschoolph Follow I Homeschool Ph on You Tube, Tiktok, Instagram, Facebook Page and Facebook Community Page accounts. #homeschooling #homeschoolgoals #ihomeschoolph #familyrhythms #ihomeschoolphpodcast #parenting #relationship #homeschool #pinoyhomeschooling #episode246 #love #lessonplan

Feeling stretched by the little years, wondering how to support a gifted child, or trying to homeschool while solo and on a budget? This conversation is for you. In this episode, Coach Meg shares a gentle, doable roadmap for three big topics moms are asking about—under-7 homeschooling, "gifted" learners, and single-mom strategies—so you can lead your home with calm, clarity, and confidence.

Leave us a review and share this episode with someone youthink might enjoy it! It really helps us out.Join our free WhatsApp community for Q&A submissions,polls on future episodes & links to the podcast first: https://chat.whatsapp.com/HB7n1PNGdGL5STACssEH1sFollow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/teachsleeprepeatpodcastFollow us on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/teachsleeprepeatpodcast

 Want to bring more relevance into your math class without reinventing the wheel? This episode breaks down project-based learning lesson plan ideas you can use right now—aligned to standards and built for real-world engagement.You'll learn: ✅ What PBL really looks like in a math class ✅ Examples of PBL lessons for linear, quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic functions ✅ How to scaffold projects for student success ✅ Easy strategies for grading and reflection

Welcome to your one minute masterclass! To get the latest episodes first, subscribe to the DiscoverDance mailing list: https://discoverdance.us18.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=9d0eb3d3536d1544ab2f7979c&id=221ecffc19&fbclid=IwAR3nrjIxWTLLEb65jNpntPxm6EMlNqhuZNanQgSK51ZfXjsiFY2z4BAEGMo   Enjoy~ Andrea  

Emily Kircher-Morris sits down with Tom Rademacher, an award-winning educator and author, to explore the nuances of creating affirming educational environments. They discuss the importance of vulnerability in teaching, the impact of neurodivergence on learning, and how personal experiences shape educational philosophies. Tom shares thoughts about his book series "Bucket and Friends," which teaches the power of embracing one's uniqueness and the role of agency and optimism in education. TAKEAWAYS There are always opportunities to improve a supportive learning environment. Expressing vulnerability as a teacher can vastly improve relationships with students. Personal experiences can and will influence teaching philosophies. "Bucket & Friends" emphasizes the importance of embracing uniqueness. Agency and optimism have high value in an education context. We only open the registration window for our Educator Hub a few times a year, and right now the window is open! Become part of this amazing community of teachers, administrators, parents of students, and people interested in making classrooms a better place for everyone. Tom Rademacher is an award-winning educator and author with over 20 years of experience in education. He currently serves as a professor in the teacher licensure program at Reach University's Oxford Teachers College and is the author of 50 Strategies for Learning without Screens, It Won't Be Easy, Raising Ollie, and the upcoming chapter book series Bucket and Friends. Named Minnesota Teacher of the Year in 2014, Tom brings humor, heart, and honesty to his work in preparing future educators and advocating for students. He lives in Minnesota with his family and their very large dog—just a little too close to the Mall of America. BACKGROUND READING Tom's website, Instagram, LinkedIn The Neurodiversity Podcast is on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, and you're invited to join our Facebook Group.

Do homeschool lessons in your house ever drag on…and on…and on? You're not alone! In this episode, we dive into one of Charlotte Mason's most practical principles: keeping lessons short and focused.You'll learn:Why short lessons train a child's full attentionHow brevity prevents burnout and keeps learning freshThe surprising way short lessons create variety, confidence, and peace at homePractical tips for setting lesson times by ageEncouragement for when it feels like “we're not doing enough”Whether you're new to Charlotte Mason or looking to bring more joy into your homeschool, this episode will help you simplify lessons, protect relationships, and spark a love of learning in your children.

Some of you have jumped into homeschool this fall all excited—with new markers, new books, and new lesson plans. But! One month in and the lesson plans you poured over in the summer aren't working! You're frustrated and they're declaring anarchy! Fear not! There is hope for salvaging lesson plans and making them work for you instead of against you. Please join Linda Lacour Hobar, author of The Mystery of History and veteran homeschool mom, for tips on schedules, grades, and lesson plans with “The Date-free Lesson Planner.” (This podcast is derived from a live workshop, so please excuse the ambient noise!)   If you'd like Lesson Plan template pages, they are available as a free download in the details section where this workshop is sold. 

Text Sue what you think!Say goodbye to “Am I doing enough?” panic and hello to everyday learning that feels light, doable, and fun!https://www.unschoolingmom2mom.com/strewing-calendars___________________________________This time of year, many parents feel the pressure to come up with a “plan” that keeps kids engaged without burning anyone out. If rigid schedules or expensive curriculum sets don't fit your family, there's another way: strewing.In this episode, I'll introduce you to the Strewing Calendar—a simple, flexible tool designed for unschoolers and homeschoolers who want a little structure without the stress. You'll get answers to common questions: ✨ What is strewing? How can I make it work?✨ Could a light framework support learning without becoming rigid? (yes!)✨ How do families inspire connection, creativity, & learning?✨ I need help logging learning for progress reports - without turning unschooling into school-at-home!Whether your kids chase endless interests or you just need quick, low-prep ideas, strewing helps you turn ordinary days into meaningful learning—without lesson plans.

Part 2: Beyond Lesson Plans: Balancing Delays & Highlighting Progress Teaching today means far more than covering math problems and reading lists. It's managing the ripple effects of the pandemic, lingering academic delays, and the daily pressures kids bring with them. Alongside the frustrations are signs of progress, as schools adapt with new resources and evolving approaches. In part two of this story, we cover how teachers are finding the silver lining in these challenges and what are some key focuses heading into this school year. The Hidden Housing Crisis For America's Seniors For millions of older Americans, the dream of aging in place is colliding with the reality of inaccessible and unaffordable housing. Retrofitting homes is often out of reach financially, downsizing isn't the easy fix it appears to be, and without these changes, independence and safety become harder to hold onto in later life. We cover this quiet crisis and what resources are available to take proactive steps early on. Viewpoints Explained: Why Are So Few Women In This Industry? Just 12 percent of police officers are women and only 3 percent are in leadership positions in America. We cover one initiative that's focused on driving more women into this public-facing sector. Culture Crash: The Magic Of Film: Why 70mm Screenings Outshine Digital While digital dominates the box office and on streaming platforms, the texture and scale of 70mm film screenings continue to drive movie lovers to the theater. We cover this art form and why we're a fan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Teaching today means far more than covering math problems and reading lists. It's managing the ripple effects of the pandemic, lingering academic delays, and the daily pressures kids bring with them. Alongside the frustrations are signs of progress, as schools adapt with new resources and evolving approaches. In part two of this story, we cover how teachers are finding the silver lining in these challenges and what are some key focuses heading into this school year. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/part-2-beyond-lesson-plans-balancing-delays-highlighting-progress Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When it comes to teaching grammar, the research is clear. Drill and kill is not what we're looking for. You don't want to march through a series of grammar lessons unrelated to your students' writing and reading. Here's what NCTE's "Resolution on Grammar Exercises to Teach Speaking and Writing" has to say about it: "This resolution was prompted by the continuing use of repetitive grammar drills and exercises in the teaching of English in many schools. Proposers pointed out that ample evidence from 50 years of research has shown that the teaching of grammar in isolation does not lead to improvement in students' speaking and writing, and that, in fact, it hinders the development of students' oral and written language. Be it therefore resolved, that the National Council of Teachers of English affirm the position that the use of isolated grammar and usage exercises not supported by theory and research is a deterrent to the improvement of students' speaking and writing and that, in order to improve both of these, class time at all levels must be devoted to opportunities for meaningful listening, speaking, reading, and writing; and that NCTE urge the discontinuance of testing practices that encourage the teaching of grammar rather than English language arts instruction." So how can we teach students about writer's craft moves, and the rich palette of options that grammar provides them in making meaning? Well, that's our subject for today's "Plan My Lesson" episode. I received several requests for lessons to make grammar more fun, so today we're talking about ideas for making grammar moments more effective AND more interesting when it comes to lesson planning. You won't find any multiple-choice here, but you will find ideas you could try weaving into your lessons, regardless of where your students are in their writing journey. Sources Mentioned: Deborah Dean's "Grammar for Writing" Post at NCTE NCTE's Resolution on Grammar Exercises to teach Speaking and Writing Go Further:  Explore alllll the Episodes of The Spark Creativity Teacher Podcast. Snag three free weeks of community-building attendance question slides Join our community, Creative High School English, on Facebook. Come hang out on Instagram. Enjoying the podcast? Please consider sharing it with a friend, snagging a screenshot to share on the ‘gram, or tapping those ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ to help others discover the show. Thank you! 

Part 1: Beyond Lesson Plans: How Teachers Navigate Tech, Bullying & A Lack Of Connection In The Classroom A new school year is underway, and teachers aren't just juggling lesson plans, but are navigating a maze of social media drama, tech distractions, and the emotional needs of their many students. This week, in part one of this two-part story, two educators join us to share how they're navigating the often-invisible challenges that follow kids into the classroom. Pop's Power Shift: From Madonna To Taylor Swift, Chappell Roan And Olivia Rodrigo Earlier this month, the online announcement of Taylor Swift's twelfth studio album, “The Life of a Showgirl” almost crashed YouTube because millions of Swifties flooded the platform. This week – We cover how female pop stardom has reached record new heights and how early female pop stars like Madonna paved the way for future musicians in this genre. Viewpoints Explained: The Race To Improve Cancer Screening And Detection Researchers are utilizing the latest in artificial intelligence to see if it could be a key partner in helping to improve the speed, accuracy, and reliability of catching cancer early. Culture Crash: “Barbarian” Film Director Zach Cregger Does It Again With "Weapons" Synopsis: We review the new horror film, “Weapons” directed by Zach Cregger and starring Ozark alum Julia Garner, Oppenheimer standout Aldren Ehrenreich and Academy Award nominee Josh Brolin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A new school year is underway, and teachers aren't just juggling lesson plans, but are navigating a maze of social media drama, tech distractions, and the emotional needs of their many students. This week, in part one of this two-part story, two educators join us to share how they're navigating the often-invisible challenges that follow kids into the classroom. Learn More: https://viewpointsradio.org/part-1-beyond-lesson-plans-how-teachers-navigate-tech-bullying-a-lack-of-connection-in-the-classroom Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how to effectively plan and coach single-modality days like heavy lifts, long endurance workouts, and gymnastics skill sessions. Todd and Kristin will walk you through their live lesson planning process to maximize athlete engagement and results.--

Curious what our homeschool is going to look like this year?In this week's podcast episode, I'm sharing our plans for the 2025–2026 homeschool year—what we're focusing on, what we're simplifying, and how I'm building our rhythm around connection, not just checklists.

I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text!Here's the truth: your lesson plans don't need to be perfect to be effective—and chasing “perfect” is one of the quickest ways to burn out as a teacher.In this episode, I am talking directly to all the teachers who spend hours tweaking slides, rewriting already-great handouts, and second-guessing every plan. You'll learn why perfectionism doesn't actually make you a better teacher, how it can work against you (yep, research backs this up), and practical strategies to plan smarter, not harder.From setting time limits for planning to reusing templates without guilt, I will help you create engaging, student-centered lessons without draining your energy—or your evenings.

What an incredible journey we've been on together! In this episode, we reflect on the powerful foundation of belonging we've built and, most importantly, look ahead at how to sustain this vibrant culture throughout the entire school year.Key Takeaways from this Episode:For Reflecting on the Journey:Understand the importance of individual reflection on the "First 10 Days" experience, using prompts to articulate feelings of belonging, pride, and hopes for the future.Learn how to create a final "Growth Chain" link to visibly represent personal growth in belonging.For Inclusive Celebration:Discover the critical need to understand what "celebration" means to all students, recognizing that not everyone views it as loud or noisy.Explore diverse celebration options, including "Shout-Outs" or Appreciation Circles, and flexible "Celebration Centers" that cater to varied preferences (e.g., quiet reflection, music, games).Learn how to incorporate student-chosen music via anonymous Padlets or shared playlists for truly inclusive celebrations.For Sustaining Belonging All Year (Connection to Hill Model & SEL):See how Day 10 activities culminate in profound Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) development, enhancing self-awareness, social awareness, relationship skills (through appreciation), and responsible decision-making.Understand how these practices align with the Hill Model's framework for Identity, Criticality, Skills, Joy, and Intellect, ensuring holistic student development beyond the initial days.For Impacting Learning (Connection to John Hattie):Learn how reflection supports Metacognitive Strategies and how "Shout-Outs" provide impactful Feedback.Discover how celebrating collective efforts boosts Collective Teacher Efficacy and strengthens Teacher-Student Relationships.Understand how articulating belonging contributes to higher Self-Efficacy and positive Self-Reported Grades/Student Expectations.Reflect on quotes from Maya Angelou and Stephen Covey about the lasting impact of feelings and prioritizing what truly matters.In this episode, I mention:The "First 10 Days: Building a Welcoming and Respectful Classroom of Belonging" Resource BundleFREE Day 1 Lesson Plan & MaterialsIndividual Reflection Prompts (for journal/video)Growth ChainShout-Outs / Appreciation CircleCelebration CentersReady to take action?Download your FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsfreeExplore the full "First 10 Days" Resource Bundle here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsbundleReflection Questions for Educators:How will I gather student input on what "celebration" means to them to ensure an inclusive Day 10?What specific strategies will I commit to implementing consistently throughout the year to sustain belonging?How can I continue to encourage student reflection on their growth and sense of belonging beyond the first 10 days?What is one thing I will celebrate about my classroom community's journey this year?Stay connected:I would absolutely love to know how you are using these ideas in your classroom! What inspiration did you gain from this series? What activities resonated most with your students? Please don't hesitate to reach out and share your experiences.DM me on Instagram: @iteachcustomConnect with me on LinkedIn: Search for Custom Teaching SolutionsEmail: Jocelynn@customteachingsolutions.comWebsite: https://customteachingsolutions.comDon't miss out on making this school year your most belonging-centered one yet!

In this episode, we explore how to visually demonstrate that every individual strength and unique identity fits together to form a complete, interconnected, and thriving classroom community. It's about showing that every single student is an essential piece of our collective whole.Key Takeaways from this Episode:For Visualizing Interconnectedness:Understand the "Puzzle Piece Identity Display" as a powerful metaphor for classroom community, where each unique piece is vital for the whole picture.Learn how to guide students in decorating their puzzle pieces to reflect their identity (interests, strengths, culture, dreams).Discover the impact of collaboratively assembling the puzzle, reinforcing that "No matter how small you are, you can make a difference."For Fostering Empathy & Support:Explore how reflection discussions around the assembled puzzle encourage empathy and proactive support within the community (e.g., "How do we support each other's pieces?").Understand that "Individually, we are one drop. Together, we are an ocean," highlighting the strength in collective unity.For Holistic Development (Connection to Hill Model & SEL):See how this activity impacts the Hill Model's areas of student development: Identity, Criticality, Skills, Joy, and Intellect, through self-affirmation, analyzing interdependence, practicing teamwork, and experiencing collective accomplishment.Learn how it's a powerhouse for Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), enhancing self-awareness, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.For Impacting Learning (Connection to John Hattie):Discover how this collaborative task boosts Collective Teacher Efficacy and positively impacts the Classroom Climate.Understand how it strengthens Teacher-Student Relationships through shared purpose and visible interconnectedness.Reflect on Henry Ford's quote: "Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success."In this episode, I mention:The "First 10 Days: Building a Welcoming and Respectful Classroom of Belonging" Resource BundleFREE Day 1 Lesson Plan & Materials"Puzzle Piece Identity Display" ActivityJohn Hattie's Visible Learning research (Collective Teacher Efficacy, Classroom Climate, Teacher-Student Relationships)The Hill Model (Identity, Criticality, Skills, Joy, Intellect)Ready to take action?

Today's request for "Plan My Lesson" is from a teacher searching for a first week project that helps students get to know each other AND introduces a few key skills along the way. Perhaps you can relate? Here's what she writes: "It's time to switch up the first project I do in English 10… For the last few years I've had the kiddos research their first name, practicing basic research skills, as well as us getting to know them and them doing some self exploration. I want a similar caliber project, but on a different topic." So our goal for the lesson is to introduce key elements for a project that will give students a chance to share something important to them as you build community, learn and practice basic research skills, and get them adjusted to a key platform (in my opinion) for the school year, Canva. As usual, it's a struggle for me to pack it all into one lesson, so feel free to spread this over several depending on how much time you have in your period! Take the Free Canva Confidence Mini-Course: https://sparkcreativity.kartra.com/page/getCanvaconfidence  Go Further:  Explore alllll the Episodes of The Spark Creativity Teacher Podcast. Launch your choice reading program with all my favorite tools and recs, and grab the free toolkit. Join our community, Creative High School English, on Facebook. Come hang out on Instagram.  Enjoying the podcast? Please consider sharing it with a friend, snagging a screenshot to share on the ‘gram, or tapping those ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ to help others discover the show. Thank you!   

In this episode, we bring it all back to the individual with a creative twist. We dive into Day 8: Uniquely You Creative Snapshot, exploring how to celebrate the incredible individuality of each student through imaginative prompts and a special visual display that will grow with them throughout the year.Key Takeaways:For Expressing Unique Identity:Understand the "Uniquely You" tree worksheet as a living, evolving self-portrait for students.Learn how to use imaginative prompts (e.g., "If you were a sound, what would you be and why?") to encourage deep self-reflection and creative expression.Discover how this activity, like the "Culture Hand," can be modified to be subject-specific (e.g., "My Scientist Tree," "My Mathematician Tree") and used throughout the year to track growth.For Celebrating Creativity & Authenticity:Explore how this activity allows students' "intelligence to have fun," echoing Albert Einstein's quote on creativity.Understand the power of publicly displaying these "Uniquely You" trees in the hallway or on the door to celebrate individuality and reinforce that "To be yourself... is the greatest accomplishment" (Ralph Waldo Emerson).For Holistic Development (Connection to Hill Model & John Hattie):See how this activity impacts the Hill Model's five areas of student development: Identity, Criticality, Skills, Joy, and Intellect.Learn how it aligns with John Hattie's Visible Learning research by boosting Self-Efficacy and Student Voice through public affirmation and diverse expression.In this episode I mention:The "First 10 Days: Building a Welcoming and Respectful Classroom of Belonging" Resource BundleFREE Day 1 Lesson Plan & Materials"Uniquely You" Tree Worksheet"Uniquely You Creative Snapshot" Prompt CardsQuotes from Albert Einstein and Ralph Waldo EmersonThe Hill Model (Identity, Criticality, Skills, Joy, Intellect)John Hattie's Visible Learning research (Self-Efficacy, Student Voice)Ready to take action?Download your FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsfreeExplore the full "First 10 Days" Resource Bundle here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsbundleHow can I introduce the "Uniquely You" tree to truly spark my students' imaginations and encourage authentic self-expression?Which of the creative prompts might resonate most with my students, and how can I support diverse responses?How will I use the "Uniquely You" tree as an ongoing tool for reflection and celebration throughout the year, perhaps connecting it to subject-specific growth?What steps can I take to ensure all students feel comfortable and celebrated when their unique work is displayed publicly?Stay connected:Email: Jocelynn@customteachingsolutions.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cts-custom-teaching-solutions/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iteachcustom/Website: https://customteachingsolutions.comDon't miss out on making this school year your most belonging-centered one yet!

In this episode, we move beyond superficial "get to know you" activities to genuinely deepen connection and shared understanding among your students. We dive into Day 7: Building Classroom Community, exploring how to create a classroom where students don't just sit next to each other, but truly know and support each other. As Helen Keller famously said, "Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much."Key Takeaways:For Deeper Connections & Psychological Safety:Understand why true community building requires sustained, intentional opportunities for sharing, listening, and connecting.Learn how to facilitate impactful Community Circles or Pair-Shares using structured prompts and a "talking object" to ensure every voice is heard.Discover questions that invite vulnerability and foster genuine relationships (e.g., "What's something others might not know about you?").For Impacting Learning (Connection to John Hattie):Explore how strong Teacher-Student Relationships and rich Classroom Discussion are directly strengthened by these activities.Understand how a cohesive community contributes to high Collective Teacher Efficacy.Learn how co-creating a "Classroom Constitution" or "We Belong Here" poster aligns with Student Voice and Teacher Clarity.For Holistic Development (Connection to Gholdy Muhammad's Hill Model):See how intentional community building profoundly impacts the Hill Model's five areas of student development:Identity: Affirming individual place within the collective.Criticality: Analyzing and upholding collective well-being.Skills: Practicing active listening, empathy, and collaboration.Joy: Experiencing positive connection and shared purpose.Intellect: Engaging abstractly with social constructs.In this episode I mention:The "First 10 Days: Building a Welcoming and Respectful Classroom of Belonging" Resource BundleFREE Day 1 Lesson Plan & MaterialsCommunity Circles or Pair-Shares"Classroom Constitution" or "We Belong Here" posterJohn Hattie's Visible Learning research (Teacher-Student Relationships, Classroom Discussion, Collective Teacher Efficacy, Student Voice, Teacher Clarity)The Hill Model (Identity, Criticality, Skills, Joy, Intellect)Quotes from Helen Keller and Phil JacksonReady to take action?Download your FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsfreeExplore the full "First 10 Days" Resource Bundle here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsbundleReflection Questions:How can I consistently create opportunities for students to share and listen deeply in my classroom?What specific questions will I use to spark genuine connection during community circles or pair-shares?How will I involve my students in co-creating a "Classroom Constitution" that truly reflects their shared commitment to belonging?In what ways can I continue to nurture classroom community beyond Day 7 to support all five areas of the Hill Model?Stay Connected:Email: Jocelynn@customteachingsolutions.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cts-custom-teaching-solutions/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iteachcustom/Website: https://customteachingsolutions.comKey Takeaways from this Episode:In this episode, I mention:Ready to take action?Reflection Questions for Educators:Stay connected:

We've reached the halfway point of our "First 10 Days" journey! In this episode, we explore how to make the invisible process of learning beautifully visible by launching your classroom's Growth Chain—a powerful tool for metacognition and shared growth.Key Takeaways:For Making Learning Visible:Understand the "Growth Chain" as a tangible, visual representation of individual and collective learning journeys.Learn why giving students a visible way to track their growth boosts engagement and self-awareness.Discover how to explain and model the creation of a concise, personal reflection link for the chain.For Fostering a Growth Mindset (Connection to John Hattie):Explore how the Growth Chain directly taps into John Hattie's Visible Learning research, specifically:Metacognitive Strategies: Students actively think about their own thinking and learning.Formative Evaluation/Assessment: Each link serves as an ongoing self-assessment of progress.Self-Reported Grades / Student Expectations: Seeing tangible growth significantly boosts self-efficacy.Feedback: The chain provides continuous self-feedback and collective feedback.Understand how this activity reinforces that "Growth is not an automatic process. It's a choice." (John C. Maxwell).For Building Community & Affirmation:Learn tips for flexible expression (writing, drawing, symbols) to accommodate diverse learners.Discover how adding links to the growing chain creates a powerful, visible symbol of shared progress and collective development.In this episode, I mention:The "First 10 Days: Building a Welcoming and Respectful Classroom of Belonging" Resource Bundle: Your comprehensive guide with 10 days of intentional lesson plans and activities.FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan & Materials: Get a taste of the full bundle! Includes the "I Am..." template, "Norms of Engagement" chart, and the "Self, Peers, World" exit ticket.Growth Chain Paper Strips: Pre-cut strips for student reflections.Growth Chain Prompt Cards: 12 different ideas to inspire student reflections.John C. Maxwell and John Hattie's Visible Learning research.Download your FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsfreeExplore the full "First 10 Days" Resource Bundle here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsbundleTeacher Reflection Questions:How can I consistently integrate opportunities for students to reflect on their own growth?What specific prompts will best encourage metacognition in my students?How can I use the visible Growth Chain to celebrate individual and collective progress in my classroom?How might seeing their own growth impact my students' self-efficacy and motivation throughout the year?STAY CONNECTED:Email: Jocelynn@customteachingsolutions.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cts-custom-teaching-solutions/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iteachcustom/Website: https://customteachingsolutions.comDon't miss out on making this school year your most belonging-centered one yet!

In this episode, we explore the profound impact of words on identity and connection. We dive into Day 5: Belonging Through Words, discovering how choosing a personal "power word" and creating a collaborative "Belonging Wall" can beautifully personalize your classroom space and reinforce a collective sense of belonging.For Understanding the Power of Words:Reflect on quotes that highlight the lasting impact of words, both positive and negative.Understand how a single word can evoke feelings, represent beliefs, or describe aspirations.Learn why choosing a personal "power word" is an act of self-reflection and empowerment.For Creative Self-Expression:Discover various ways students can express the meaning of their chosen word: through art, poetry, journal entries, music, song, or dance.Explore how these diverse modes of expression tap into different intelligences and ensure all students can participate authentically.For Building a Living Classroom Display:Learn how to create a "Belonging Wall" – a dynamic, visual representation of your classroom's collective values and identities.Understand the importance of revisiting this wall at least once a quarter (or as needed) to reflect the evolving sense of belonging throughout the school year.See how each unique word contributes to the richness and strength of your classroom community.The "First 10 Days: Building a Welcoming and Respectful Classroom of Belonging" Resource Bundle: Your comprehensive guide with 10 days of intentional lesson plans and activities.FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan & Materials: Get a taste of the full bundle! Includes the "I Am..." template, "Norms of Engagement" chart, and the "Self, Peers, World" exit ticket."My Word" Brainstorming Sheet: A printable sheet to help students select their power word."Belonging Wall" Guidance: Tips and ideas for creating and maintaining this impactful display.Quotes on the Power of Words from Rachel Wolchin and KushandWizdom.

In this episode, we move from individual sparks to a collective flame. We dive into Day 4: Creating Norms Together, exploring how to transform initial brainstorms about respect, community, safety, and belonging into shared, actionable agreements that will guide your classroom throughout the year – a true collective promise.For Understanding Rules vs. Norms:Learn the crucial distinction: rules are often imposed, while norms are shared agreements collectively decided by the group.Understand why co-creating norms fosters greater student ownership, accountability, and a truly equitable community.Discover how norms are about the how – how we want to interact, learn, and feel together.For Co-Creating & Finalizing Norms:Explore strategies for reviewing and revising brainstormed norms, guiding students to create clear, positive, and actionable statements.Learn how to create a prominent "Class Norms Poster" and involve students in its design and "signing" to foster deep ownership.For Practicing Accountability & Revisitng Norms:Understand how to facilitate discussions about what it looks like to live by the norms and how to gently remind each other when a norm is forgotten.Discover the power of using sample role-play scenarios (e.g., talking over others, not sharing materials, disagreeing respectfully, off-task distractions, group exclusion, uneven workload) to practice navigating common classroom challenges.Learn why norms are "living documents" that should be revisited periodically to reflect the community's growth.The "First 10 Days: Building a Welcoming and Respectful Classroom of Belonging" Resource Bundle: Your comprehensive guide with 10 days of intentional lesson plans and activities.FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan & Materials: Get a taste of the full bundle! Includes the "I Am..." template, "Norms of Engagement" chart, and the "Self, Peers, World" exit ticket."Class Norms Poster" Template: A large printable template for your collaborative classroom agreements.Role-Play Scenario Cards: Printable cards with various situations for students to practice applying norms.

If there's one thing I want for your first day of school, it's for the pressure to be off you. You've got enough to worry about without needing to pull off a 45 minute lecture that magically holds students' attention before they even know you five times in a row. That's why for this lesson, requested for our summer "Plan my Lesson" series, our goal will be to hit all the day-one must-dos while also building community and keeping things engaging and low-stress. This is your chance to start connecting with your students and helping them feel comfortable in your classroom, while at the same time showing them what your class is going to be like. Grab the Syllabus Templates: https://nowsparkcreativity.com/free-syllabus-templates  Go Further:  Explore alllll the Episodes of The Spark Creativity Teacher Podcast. Snag three free weeks of community-building attendance question slides Join our community, Creative High School English, on Facebook. Come hang out on Instagram.  Enjoying the podcast? Please consider sharing it with a friend, snagging a screenshot to share on the ‘gram, or tapping those ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ to help others discover the show. Thank you! 

In this episode, we explore the profound impact of student voice and storytelling. We dive into Day 3: Student Voice & Storytelling, discovering why inviting students to share their personal narratives is a powerful act of validation that strengthens empathy, fosters self-awareness, and builds deep community bonds.For Understanding the Power of Storytelling:Recognize why stories are fundamental to how we make meaning, connect, and build community in the classroom.Understand that inviting a student's story is an act of profound validation, telling them their experiences matter.Learn how sharing stories builds empathy, fosters self-awareness, and strengthens community bonds.For Implementing "My [Subject] Story":Discover how to use the "My [Subject] Story" mini-lesson to connect students' personal learning journeys to academic subjects.Learn the importance of modeling vulnerability by sharing your own "My [Subject] Story" (including challenges and triumphs).Explore scaffolding tools like sentence starters, mind maps, and graphic organizers to support all learners in drafting their stories.For Fostering Peer Connection & Feedback:Understand the value of pair-sharing as a low-stakes way for students to practice sharing and active listening.Learn how to encourage partners to ask clarifying questions to deepen understanding.Discover how a "Partner Feedback Form" can ensure positive, constructive feedback that highlights joy and connection.The "First 10 Days: Building a Welcoming and Respectful Classroom of Belonging" Resource Bundle: Your comprehensive guide with 10 days of intentional lesson plans and activities.FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan & Materials: Get a taste of the full bundle! Includes the "I Am..." template, "Norms of Engagement" chart, and the "Self, Peers, World" exit ticket."Sharing Your Story" Mini-Lesson: Guidance and examples for teaching this activity.Story Scaffolding Handout: Printable tools like sentence starters and graphic organizers.Partner Feedback Form: A template for structured, positive peer feedback.

In this episode, we move beyond first impressions to truly celebrate the unique identities each student brings to your classroom. We dive into Day 2: Identity & Belonging, exploring the "Culture Hand Activity" as a powerful visual handshake that helps every student feel seen, valued, and essential to the richness of your classroom community.For Unpacking Student Identity:Understand the "Culture Hand Activity" as a unique "visual handshake" to introduce student uniqueness.Learn how to guide students to represent five aspects of their identity (heritage, hobbies, talents, values, etc.) through drawing or writing on their hand outline.Discover how this activity moves beyond surface-level introductions to invite deeper self-reflection.For Fostering Connection & Growth:Recognize why seeing and sharing uniqueness reveals individual strengths and areas for growth.Explore strategies for facilitating small group sharing and whole-class reflection on the "Culture Hands."Learn how to guide discussions that highlight the "richness of identities and experiences" in your classroom, emphasizing the value each unique background brings.For Extending the Impact:Gain insight into several additional ways to use the "Culture Hand Activity" throughout the year (e.g., "My Learning Hand," "Our Class Hand," "Future Self Hand") to continue building community and exploring identity.The "First 10 Days: Building a Welcoming and Respectful Classroom of Belonging" Resource Bundle: Your comprehensive guide with 10 days of intentional lesson plans and activities.FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan & Materials: Get a taste of the full bundle! Includes the "I Am..." template, "Norms of Engagement" chart, and the "Self, Peers, World" exit ticket.The "Culture Hand Activity" Worksheet: A printable outline of a hand for students to use.

Welcome to the very first episode of "First 10 Days: Building a Classroom of Belonging" from The Culture-Centered Classroom Podcast! Join your host, Jocelynn Hubbard, as she kicks off a special Back to School series dedicated to creating a truly safe, affirming, and inclusive classroom environment from day one.In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, we explore the foundational steps to cultivating a classroom where every student feels seen, heard, and valued from the moment they walk through your door. Discover how intentional greetings, modeling vulnerability, and co-creating classroom norms can transform your learning space and set a powerful tone for the entire school year.For Crafting a Welcoming Atmosphere: Learn the profound impact of personalized greetings at the door and how your open posture signals an inviting space.For Building Trust & Connection: Explore how sharing your own identity through an "I Am..." statement models vulnerability and humanizes you to your students, building immediate rapport.For Empowering Student Voice: Understand the crucial difference between imposed rules and co-created norms, and how involving students in defining respect, community, safety, and belonging fosters deep ownership and accountability.The "First 10 Days: Building a Welcoming and Respectful Classroom of Belonging" Resource Bundle: Your comprehensive guide with 10 days of intentional lesson plans and activities.FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan & Materials: Get a taste of the full bundle! Includes the "I Am..." template, "Norms of Engagement" chart, and the "Self, Peers, World" exit ticket.

Send us a textThis encore episode takes you inside the everyday world of homeschooling and parenting. From navigating sibling tension and academic pressures to embracing individuality and battling comparison, we explore what it means to raise kids while doing school under your roof—and why it matters for all parents, no matter your educational path.

There's a lot of conversation happening lately around student reading stamina. Rose Horowitch's Atlantic article, "The Elite College Students who Can't Read Books," helped stir the pot. I'm sure you've seen evidence of the same issues she brings up - that students are struggling to stay focused through books, and often come to you having read a lot of excerpts and short pieces rather than full novels. Test-prep, phone culture, COVID - there are all kinds of reasons, but the bottom line for you as a teacher is, what can you do about it? Today's request for our new "Plan My Lesson" series comes from a teacher looking for ways to help her students build their reading stamina. She's wondering how she can help her students work toward longer reads and more of 'em. Perhaps you're wondering the same? This is a big question, and we're just planning one lesson. But let's zoom in on a snapshot of a class that could help students move toward longer, more-engaged reading sessions. We'll start, like The Odyssey, in medias res. Related Links: Episode 196: How Caitlin's Verse Novel Book Clubs Engaged Seniors 'Til the End: https://nowsparkcreativity.com/2023/06/how-caitlins-verse-novel-book-clubs-engaged-seniors-til-the-end.html How to Host a Book Tasting: https://nowsparkcreativity.com/2019/03/how-to-host-book-tasting-free-resource.html  Episode 204: Students Need Diverse Texts and Choice, with Dr. Claudia Rodriguez-Mojica and Dr. Allison Briceño: https://nowsparkcreativity.com/2023/07/students-need-diverse-texts-and-choice-heres-help.html  The Dos and Don'ts of Donors Choose: https://nowsparkcreativity.com/2019/01/the-dos-and-donts-of-donors-choose-for.html  Go Further:  Explore alllll the Episodes of The Spark Creativity Teacher Podcast. Launch your choice reading program with all my favorite tools and recs, and grab the free toolkit. Join our community, Creative High School English, on Facebook. Come hang out on Instagram.  Enjoying the podcast? Please consider sharing it with a friend, snagging a screenshot to share on the ‘gram, or tapping those ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ to help others discover the show. Thank you! 

In this conversation, Marc and Nick discuss the intricacies of lesson planning, emphasizing the importance of structured questioning and engagement techniques. They explore how to effectively plan lessons that foster student participation and understanding, while also considering the role of AI in education and the balance between creativity and structure in teaching. Follow Marc on X, online, TikTok, or YouTube Check out Marc's new book, CAPTIVATE

Ken Liu's short story, "The Paper Menagerie," is an easy and powerful add to your curriculum. Not only does it explore family relationships, The American Dream, and identity (themes you can easily connect to other texts as you build units), it introduces - briefly, painfully, powerfully - China's Cultural Revolution. I'll admit I've never studied the history of communism in China with much depth until recently. In college, I took a Socialist-Realist literature course that kicked off a life-long interest in how people are influenced by propaganda for me. Later, I lived in Bulgaria after the fall of communism there and my interest only increased as I taught 1984 to students whose families had lived through Communism. I visited Memento Park in Budapest, home to dozens of Communist sculptures and a terrifying video exhibit about the way the government watched its citizens. I visited the Museum of Communism in Prague, which walks visitors through daily life under communism as well as showing its frightening extremes. I moved to Slovakia, where I listened to my son's best friend's father tell me how wonderful aspects of life under Communism had been years before in the very neighborhood where our family was living. Yet despite my interest in learning about Communism and propaganda, it was Ken Liu who first made me pay attention to The Cultural Revolution. When his main character reads a letter from his mother about her life in China before she escaped to The United States as a bride in a catalogue, it woke me up dramatically. None of the other books I'd ever read throughout so many years of studying and then teaching English had ever really explored this huge event in world history. I thought of the story immediately when a teacher wrote in with her request for our new "Plan My Lesson" series, asking for a bridge to help her students prepare to read Red Scarf Girl, A Memoir of the Cultural Revolution. Since then I've dipped into Red Scarf Girl (until I got so sad I had to take a break) and done a deep dive into The New York Times' exploration of The Cultural Revolution, including three particularly striking stories: one in which a small local museum remembering victims of the Cultural Revolution was wrapped in propaganda posters, one featuring memories of folks who were students in China during the Cultural Revolution (like the narrator of Red Scarf Girl), and one about current president of China's Xi Jinping's experience as a middle schooler during the Cultural Revolution. But knowing many classrooms wouldn't have access to The New York Times, I continued into resources on the BBC and Crash Course, the Asian Society and Getty Images, which I eventually built into today's curriculum. Today, I'm going to walk you through a lesson on "The Paper Menagerie" that you can use on its own, or as a transition toward Red Scarf Girl. Our goal is to help students build some understanding of The Cultural Revolution at the same time that they explore related literature. To be honest, I really fell down the rabbit hole on this one, and could easily now spend a month building curriculum around how we know what is true, how propaganda wields influence, the cultural revolution, Ken Liu's short story, and Red Scarf Girl. And because the history surrounding these stories is so painful, and the repercussions so very real in our world, it's hard not to feel a tremendous responsibility for students to explore these questions and texts. But at the moment, we're talking about one short lesson period - probably about 38 minutes of available time. So let's focus on that, starting now. Grab your copy of the agenda and webquest curriculum: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1HSG6g7-a1U_j5y1ceh7jMGA_Q3pJFn-hatKW2aRYolY/copy  Go Further:  Explore alllll the Episodes of The Spark Creativity Teacher Podcast. Grab the free Better Discussions toolkit Join our community, Creative High School English, on Facebook. Come hang out on Instagram. Enjoying the podcast? Please consider sharing it with a friend, snagging a screenshot to share on the ‘gram, or tapping those ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ to help others discover the show. Thank you! 

Trevor Noah's Born a Crime is trending, and for good reason. I'm seeing the evidence everywhere. This spring, as I ran our curriculum book choice tournament across the high school levels and hundreds of teachers weighed in, I watched it soar to the finals in BOTH the 9th/10th category and the 11th/12th category. Then, as summer began and I opened up this new podcast series, "Plan My Lesson" (which starts today, right now), I immediately received three separate requests for Born a Crime lessons. Naturally, with this book soaring in popularity but new to the scene, there isn't that much out there being shared yet. One teacher was searching for ways to get students connecting the text to the 5 key themes of the I.B. curriculum (identities, experiences, human ingenuity, social organization, and sharing the planet). Another teacher was planning to use it as an anchor for a memoir class, and still another wanted to help students identity rhetorical devices inside while also developing their question-asking skills and connecting key moments in the text with argument claims. Is it possible to fulfill all these needs with one lesson? I think so. What we want is an in-depth lesson on a section of Trevor Noah's Born a Crime, with a focus on connecting its big ideas to big ideas in our world today and in students' own lives, exploring text passages carefully along the way for writer's craft moves and theme development. And of course, we want it to be engaging. And fit neatly in one class period. So today, in the first of our summer "Plan My Lesson" series of podcasts, let's dive into planning an engaging, goal-fulfilling lesson for Trevor Noah's Born a Crime. Whether or not you're teaching this book, you'll find lots of ideas for lesson planning here. After we walk through the lesson itself, we'll be talking about helpful takeaways from designing THIS lesson that you can apply to designing ANY lesson, so be sure to stay tuned to the end. I'll also be telling you how to grab all the curriculum for this lesson totally free. So let's dive in! Grab all the materials for today's lesson free here: https://sparkcreativity.kartra.com/page/bornacrimelesson  Go Further:  Explore alllll the Episodes of The Spark Creativity Teacher Podcast. Launch your choice reading program with all my favorite tools and recs, and grab the free toolkit. Join our community, Creative High School English, on Facebook. Come hang out on Instagram.  Enjoying the podcast? Please consider sharing it with a friend, snagging a screenshot to share on the ‘gram, or tapping those ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ to help others discover the show. Thank you!  Camp Creative : Your Shiny New Short Story Toolbox is coming June 23-27. In this fun and free 5 day summer workshop, you'll… ⭐ Learn about 5 fabulous short story options from me (plus SO MANY others from the thousands of other teachers at camp!) ⭐ Walk through 5 creative out-of-their-seats and/or outside-the-box short story lessons (bye bye, comprehension questions) ⭐ Take away 5 classroom-ready curriculum kits for next year (hello, major time-savers!) Each day's materials are designed to take just 10 minutes to peruse, and they come straight to your email so you can join us day by day or, if you're busy (or still teaching), catch up later. Sign up here: https://sparkcreativity.kartra.com/page/CC2025  

Tennessee Farm Bureau is dedicated to connecting people with the story of agriculture, not just on the farm, but in the classroom too. Through its Ag in the Classroom program, the organization equips educators with tools to help students understand where their food, fiber, and fuel come from. 

Last year, at this time, I was preparing to move from Bratislava to California when I released the episode we're revisiting today, all about the easiest way to approach the last day in ELA. And it turned out to be the most popular episode I've ever released, with more than 25,000 teachers tuning in. So it seems only fitting that as the end of the year approaches once again, and my life is ONCE AGAIN in boxes, preparing for our move on Thursday for a very new and exciting job for my husband in the Midwest, I would share this episode one more time. I hope it will make your last day of school a fun, creative, LOW-STRESS day that gives you a chance to say goodbye to your kiddos in a way that feels meaningful and relaxed.  Lighthouse members, you'll find the last day stations in your seasonal section under "Spring."  For folks in search of my version of these stations on TPT, here they are: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Last-Day-of-School-Stations-for-ELA-13423108 Go Further:  Explore alllll the Episodes of The Spark Creativity Teacher Podcast. Snag three free weeks of community-building attendance question slides Join our community, Creative High School English, on Facebook. Come hang out on Instagram.  Enjoying the podcast? Please consider sharing it with a friend, snagging a screenshot to share on the ‘gram, or tapping those ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ to help others discover the show. Thank you!    Camp Creative: Your Shiny New Short Story Toolbox is coming June 23-27. In this fun and free 5 day summer workshop, you'll… ⭐ Learn about 5 fabulous short story options from me (plus SO MANY others from the thousands of other teachers at camp!) ⭐ Walk through 5 creative out-of-their-seats and/or outside-the-box short story lessons (bye bye, comprehension questions) ⭐ Take away 5 classroom-ready curriculum kits for next year (hello, major time-savers!) Each day's materials are designed to take just 10 minutes to peruse, and they come straight to your email so you can join us day by day or, if you're busy (or still teaching), catch up later. Sign up here: https://sparkcreativity.kartra.com/page/CC2025  

Drex and Alisa sit down, with Catherine Smith and Javier Garcia, to chat about their lives and what its like teaching in rural Texas. Bygone Brown new locally produced podcast (Relive those thrilling days of yesteryear with this extensively researched and entertainingly told - using the voices of Lyric Players - this series brings to life American and Texas history in the 19th century from the perspective of Brown County, Texas) Legally Blonde (the bubbly, pink musical based on the beloved movie is performing on the Lyric stage June 27-July 13) https://lyricperformingartscompany.thundertix.com/events/238176 Our Presenting Sponsor for this episode is E3 Studios of Brownwood, from 3d prints to commercial paper products, shirts, hats and more! Visit them on Facebook at E3 Studios!

Did you try something last year in your homeschool and it worked really well, but now it's not serving you?Do you hold onto it because it used to work?In today's podcast, I am talking about being willing to change and adapt and I am also going over the lesson plans for May.

Dr. Marc Isseks, author of Captivate: Engaging and Empowering Students in a World of Digital Distractions, talks bluntly about cell phone policies and his opinion that attempting to ban cell phones is pointless. He also discusses the ways that you can engage students who have a short attention span (sometimes it feels like zero, but there are a few seconds -- 3 seconds. Some would say that is zero!) His thoughts on starting class are important ones to discuss. Whether it is pop culture, or other tips he offers, we can engage students in learning from the moment they walk in the door. Show notes: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/e877  

If you're teaching Long Way Down (and ready for some Long Way Down lesson plan ideas!), let me just start by saying “YAY!” It's a reader-maker, an incredible book you can teach in a short time with a high impact. Today, I'm going to be sharing some of my favorite ideas and resources for you to pair with this book. We'll talk about discussion formats, project ideas, Jason Reynolds-themed multimedia waiting around the web, and a creative writing pairing that I think you're going to love too. Heads up, as I'm sure you're aware, this book does have some language. You may need to give a heads up to parents, depending on your school community. But you can, at the same time, mention the Walter Award, Coretta Scott King Award, Printz Award, Newberry Honor Book Award, etc. Maybe throw in the fact that the Library of Congress named him the national ambassador for Young People's Literature.  Here's a quick peek at the visuals available in the FULL BLOG POST: https://nowsparkcreativity.com/2025/04/long-way-down-lesson-ideas.html.  Discussion Option: Hexagonal Thinking Discussion Option: Silent Discussion on the Walls Activity Option: Flash Verse Creative Writing Activity Option: The Open Mind for Character Analysis Links to Explore: One example of conversations happening in Creative High School English about Long Way Down in our Book Brackets Dear, Dreamer documentary about Jason Reynolds Long Way Down graphic novel opening There was a Party for Langston read aloud Ain't Burned all the Bright trailer Jason Reynolds on working with artist Danica Novgorodoff Long Way Down Curriculum 

History is interesting because it is usually written from the point of view from the victor.Have you ever looked at the other side?It really helps you to see the full story when you can do that. It also teaches your kids critical thinking skills because now they can look at both sides and form their own opinions.In today's podcast episode, I talk about looking at both sides of history and I go over the lesson plans for next month.

President Trump signs an executive order aiming to dismantle the Education Department. Benjamin Netanyahu's foreign policy advisor, Ophir Falk, speaks to “Start Here” about the renewed push into Gaza. And a federal judge expresses concern about the Trump Administration's defense of its deportation flights.  Did you hear? Brad's hosting a new show for the true crime-obsessed called "The Crime Scene Weekly." Each week, "The Crime Scene" focuses on what everybody's talking about in true crime -- from what your favorite podcasts are covering, to what's taking over our TikTok feeds. Follow the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What does it look like to incorporate Transformational Coaching into everyday instructional coaching practices? Get ready to see it in action. In this episode, Elena demonstrates how to transform lesson plan feedback from transactional to transformational. Notable moments:01:27 Role Play Demonstration Setup03:35 Feedback on Lesson Plans07:15 Reflecting on Independent Work10:02 Planning and Tracking Student Progress16:37 Engaging Students in Their Learning20:50 Final Thoughts and Next Steps Keep learning: Join our Learning Library and Transformational Coaching PLC and learn everything you need to know about incorporating Transformational Coaching strategies into common instructional coaching supports like providing feedback on lesson plans or co-planning. You'll also find a video recording of this coaching demonstration and a debrief where Elena shares the thinking behind her coaching moves.  The First 10 Minutes (tool)Read Arise: The Art of Transformational Coaching to build your coaching toolkit Attend The Art of Transformational Coaching Workshop to grow your coaching skills Receive weekly wisdom and tools from Elena delivered to your inboxBecome a Bright Morning Member Follow Elena on Instagram and LinkedInFollow Bright Morning on LinkedIn and InstagramSupport the show:Become a Friend of the Podcast  Rate and review usReflection questions: How was this conversation similar to or different from how you approach providing lesson plan feedback?What coaching moves did you hear Elena make that would build trust and agency with her coaching client?What is one thing you want to take from this conversation and try on in your coaching practice? Podcast Transcript and Use:Bright Morning Consulting owns the copyright to all content and transcripts of The Bright Morning Podcast, with all rights reserved. You may not distribute or commercially exploit the content without our express written permission.We welcome you to download and share the podcast with others for personal use; please acknowledge The Bright Morning Podcast as the source of the material.Episode Transcript