The Optimal Learning Model

I Do. We Do. You Do.
These diagrams expand upon building independent students.

All lessons should be aligned--what you talk about and what graphic organizers you use in the beginning should be exactly what the scholars work on in small groups, what they practice independently, and what they are assessed on at the end.

What should your goal ultimately look like?

Diagram Source: Yasmin, TFA, literacy specialist

Comments

"Find Something Good"

Camika Royal speaks on the challenges and role of teachers in today's education system. This is a powerful, uplifting and, above all, REAL assessment of the current situation. It is also a call to arms, a call for action, that gives me tingles every time I watch it. Her rhythmic syntax and precise diction makes for a wild ride. Her raw observation is a must-see not only for all educators, but all adults who care about the future of America. Watch it. Watch it again. And then watch it a week later when your students frustrate you. Camika Royal: Reflection Click to open in a new tab. To find out more, visit her website here: http://camikaroyal.com

Dig into the School System

This website has test scores, rankings, school and district boundaries, student/teacher ratios, demographics and other useful information for schools in the United States. When drafting your vision for your class this school year, it is important to factor in the external factors of the school's environment. Things like Free and Reduced Lunch rates can help you to determine what's at stake for your students. These factors are not limitations, but they do provide crucial background context so we can better understand our students. SchoolDigger.com Click to open in a new window.

Great Article: How Compassion and Support Will Lower Suspension Rates

The full article: New Approach to Discipline that Really Works This article is about so much more than discipline. It is about a revolution from punishment to compassion. We need to be aware of t the trauma that exists in the majority of our students' lives. From the article--these things made me nod vigorously: -" Their future is more important than their past." -" Many education experts say that kids wouldn’t have problems if their parents would just get involved. But the parents of most of the students at Lincoln HIgh are themselves are struggling with the effects of their own childhood trauma, and many are passing the trauma on to their children." -" One of the keys has been a staff that embraces two basic concepts: toxic stress prevents kids from learning, and moving from a punitive approach to a supportive, educational approach changes behavior." This chunk of the article may be one of the most important. But, as an educator, espec...

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