Adviceand Tipsfor a New School Year
RSSStaff-Curriculum Connections -- School Library Journal, 09/01/2009
The start of each new school year presents its own distinct rhythms—and challenges. We've selected a few books that we think will come in handy as you and your students settle into the classroom, establish new relationships, develop routines, and get to work.
Davis, Barbara Peterson. 404 Deskside Activities for Energetic Kids. 145p. (SmartFun Activity Bks.). bibliog. CIP. Hunter House. 2008. pap. $14.95. ISBN 978-0-89793-467-1; spiral $19.95. ISBN 978-0-89793-468-8 LC 2006021294.
Early childhood educators and physical education teachers will find these short exercises helpful when working with restless students, or those coming off the playground. Many of the activities will enhance motor skill development as they integrate movement with learning. For example, under the category "Shapes and Statues," the game "Symmetry/Asymmetry," offers a natural connection to math concepts.
Gootman, Marilyn E. The Caring Teacher’s Guide to Discipline: Helping Students Learn Self-Control, Responsibility, and Respect, K-6. 3rd ed. 240p. appendix. bibliog. index. CIP. Corwin. 2008. Tr $72.95. ISBN 978-1-4129-6283-4; pap. $33.95. ISBN 978-1-4129-6284-1. LC 2008011870.
In an era when teachers feel pressure to focus exclusively on academics, research supports the idea that “positive, caring interpersonal classroom relationships can actually increase motivation and academic achievement.” By establishing a respectful environment and enacting the principles explored in this book, educators can create a community where students are partners in learning—a win/win situation for teachers and students—and ultimately, society at large.
Haldeman, Matthew. The New Teacher’s Guide to Success: A Personalized Planning Guide for Beginning Teachers. 104p. bibliog. Shell Education. 2008. pap. $29.99. ISBN 978-1-4258-0319-3. LC number unavailable.
Based on the premise that every teacher has to make his or her own decisions about classroom practices, Haldeman outlines questions for reflection and response around 10 critical topics including: teaching style, room environment, routines, time management, parent communication, homework, assessment, organization, and first days. Each topic addresses the “how” (versus the “what”) of teaching—the crux of success.
Reich, Justin & Thomas Daccord. Best Ideas for Teaching with Technology: A Practical Guide for Teachers, by Teachers. 293p. bibliog. further reading. index. CIP. M.E. Sharpe. 2008. Tr $86.95. ISBN 978-0-7656-2131-3; pap. $34.95. ISBN 978-0-7656-2132-0. LC 2007052922.
This guide will assist teachers as they incorporate various aspects of technology into lectures, presentations, assessments, and classroom management tools, as well as research, homework, and writing assignments and activities. Instructions for integrating images, blogging, chatting, designing student portfolios, creating Web sites, and searching online databases are just a sampling of the tools and ideas covered.
