Essential Teaching and Learning

                                                                                                             Copyright (C) 2022 Scott B. Freiberger By Scott B. Freiberger It’s not difficult to fathom why facts and figures may not be the triggers for light-hearted classroom banter.  Many students remain uneasy uncovering utterly abstract facts and seemingly inconsequential suppositions.  How can we make math more relevant?  Perhaps more importantly, what steps can we take to create more inclusive mathematics classrooms, especially as it pertains to gender equality?  In addition, what supports can we offer struggling students?  Here are five ways to make math more meaningful. 1.  Imagination Station  Learning stations work wonderfully well in English Language Arts (ELA), language learning, and literacy lessons.  Why not consider the same convivial concepts for math classes? For example, try establishing three separate learning stations to enhance numeracy skills, and rotate groups

                                                                                                       (c) 2022 Scott B. Freiberger By Scott B. Freiberger With cerulean, carmine, and chalky holiday lights sparking sensations of splendor rife with family life and frolicking friends, November is a terrific time to reflect and rejoice.   With resolve and ingenuity flowing freely from fresh autumn air, now would be a propitious time to provide students with a voice to articulate appreciation for the scholarship, seasonal sentiments, and magic-like merriment that they experience.   Advancing an attitude of gratitude is also particularly poignant to model for young minds.   Here are eight ideas to kindle kindness and a culture of caring in the school community. 1. Give the Gift of Gratitude Consider comme il faut behavior by having students pen a pertinent letter to remember. Discuss crucial caregivers and pertinent professionals, from grandparents, aunts and uncles, to parents and f

                                                                                                                                               (C) 2022 Scott Freiberger  By Scott B. Freiberger As a literacy coach, I often encountered students who struggled with phonics, phonemic awareness, and reading comprehension skills.   The pandemic has exacerbated pre-existing achievement gaps for students with special needs, and as a consequence, learning loss has been particularly significant for students with disabilities.   What are some sensible ways to support struggling readers?   What technology could be infused across classrooms?   Here are five suggested scaffolds for students with reading disabilities. 1. Organize and Prioritize First, organize relevant information, prioritize key concepts, and frontload vital vocabulary.   Keep it simple.   The objective is not to overwhelm, but to make learning manageable.   Be sure to suggest simple, step-by-step directions and refer to