Teaching new sounds using science of reading based approaches doesn’t have to be complicated. In my first grade classroom, after we review letter sounds quickly, we begin to introduce a new sound each week based on the sound progression from our phonics program. Here are the simple and effective ways we learn a new sound in first grade. Day 1-…
The IB learner profile is an important and central part of the inquiry based learning approach. Each unit of inquiry should help nurture and grow these skills in your students. Here is how and why I organized my classroom library by IB learner profile skills. Why Organized Your IB PYP Classroom Library by Learner Profile Skill? In the past, before…
Teaching open syllables to your students can help them decode and write a large number of words. Single syllable open syllable words are some of the most common words used in the English language which means they are very important to teach young students. Here is how you can teach open syllables to your first grade, second grade, or kindergarten…
Understanding syllable types makes reading and writing so much easier. Closed syllables are typically the first type of syllables children learn because it is the most common type of syllable. Here is how I introduce closed syllables in my first grade classroom. What Do Students Need to Know Before You Introduce Closed Syllables? If you’d like a complete breakdown of…
Teaching is not a career for the faint of heart. This has become abundantly clear in the last 3 years of teaching with Covid, lots of terrible educational policies in the US, and increased pressure and scrutiny. Here are 5 things that every teacher needs to hear right now. Your job matters Sometimes, with all of the ridiculous expectations, it…