Essential Teaching and Learning

 Abstract This au courant, research-based article offers specific program ideas for teachers during this unprecedented time when supporting our ELLs is especially needed. Recommended Citation Freiberger, S. B. (2020). Embracing the New Normal: Infusing Academic Language and Technology to Empower ELLs. Journal of English Learner Education. (11) 1. 1-10 Here is the article link: https://stars.library.ucf.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1021&context=jele Thank you for supporting some of our most vulnerable students.

    (C) 2020 Scott Freiberger Albert Einstein had wittily posited, “Creativity is intelligence having fun.”  With the pernicious pandemic still ongoing the world over, what are some unique ways to engage students and spark creativity?  In addition, how can educators continue to focus students on studies and motivate them to strive?  Here are five keys to unlock creativity in new normal classrooms.  1. First Chapter Fridays First, consider First Chapter Fridays , a novel notion to titillate tots and teens alike with terrific tales.   Introduce students to new genres and stories by reading the first chapter of a book.   Then, if the information piques interest, provide opportunities for students to peruse these tales on their own time.   There are also abundant online options available, such as Storyline Online , Epic Reads , and Stories for Kids . 2. Calm Down Corner Next, supporting students as they introduce ideas, reflect on feeling...

By Scott B. Freiberger  Rachel’s Roses is a surprising, timeless gem of a chapter book, in which versatile author Ferida Wolff provides readers an honest glimpse into first and second-generation immigrant life in New York City during the turn of the 20th century through the eyes of a primary schoolgirl.  Endlessly frustrated and seemingly forever frazzled by a tag-along younger sibling, Rachel becomes determined to purchase a trio of ethereal-like, rose-imbued buttons for a revamped edition of a non-singular skirt to distinguish herself from her bothersome sister.  How will Rachel purchase the delicate, deluxe decorations, especially now that her mother no longer has steady employment?   Transcending religious and cultural boundaries, this terrific holiday tale aimed at younger readers, but perfect for all ages, tugs at heartstrings and brings both humility and humanity to the life of ordinary American citizens.  At its core, Rachel’s Roses taps into the qu...

                              Photo credit: (c) 2009 Scott Freiberger . JiuFen, Taiwan . By Scott B. Freiberger   When offered a position as an adjunct professor at a respected New York City college, I immediately requested to infuse service-learning into the curriculum.  When the department chair responded that she was pleased by my request, I began to ponder: Why are we not doing more in the U.S. to infuse service-learning into curricula across schools?   According to the Center for Teaching and Learning at the University ofWashington , “ Service - learning  refers to  learning that... often benefit[s] others and the community, while also advancing the goals of a given curriculum.”   Projects that are carefully-planned may include student choice and collective voice regarding provident action plans and pru...