Small Teaching K-8: Igniting the Teaching Spark with the Science of Learning

Description

Cognitive science research-based teaching techniques any educator can implement in their K-8 classroom In Small Teaching K-8, a team of veteran educators bridges the gap between cognitive theory and the K-8 classroom environment, applying the same foundational research found in author James Lang’s bestselling Small Teaching: Everyday Lessons from the Science of Learning to the elementary and middle school setting. Via clear descriptions and step-by-step methods, the book demonstrates how to integrate simple interventions into pre-existing pedagogical techniques to dramatically improve student outcomes. The interventions consist of classroom or online learning activities, one-time additions, or small modifications in course design or communication. Regardless of their form, they all deliver powerful, positive consequences. In this book, readers will also find: Foundational concepts from up-to-date cognitive research that has implications for classroom teaching and the rationales for using them in a K-8 classroomConcrete examples of how interventions have been used by faculty in various disciplinesDirections on the specific timing of each intervention, backed by evidence-based reasons An essential resource for K-8 educators seeking ways to improve their efficacy in the classroom, Small Teaching K-8 offers teachers intuitive and actionable advice on helping students absorb and retain knowledge for the long-term. Cover Title Page Copyright Page Contents About the Authors Foreword Introduction Part I Knowing: The Six-Minute Fix Chapter 1 Retrieving What’s the Theory? In Short Models Three-Two-One Closing Questions Big Basket Quizzes Multi-Part Quizzes Polling Principles Frequency Matters Align Practice and Assessment Require Thinking Small Teaching Quick Tips: Retrieving Conclusion Chapter 2 Self-Explaining What’s the Theory? In Short Models Think Aloud How Does This Connect to Our Goal? Turn-and-Talk Discussion Protocols Principles Scaffold Self-Explanation Point to Principles Utilize Peer Power Small Teaching Quick Tips: Self-Explaining Conclusion Chapter 3 Predicting What’s the Theory? In Short Models Predict during Do Nows Pretesting Anticipation Guides Tea Party Closing Predictions Principles Stay Conceptual Provide Fast Feedback Leave Time for Reflection Small Teaching Quick Tips: Predicting Conclusion Chapter 4 Putting It All Together: Jennifer Hedrington, Grade 7 Teacher Part II Thinking: Strength and Conditioning Chapter 5 Synthesizing What’s the Theory? In Short Models Synthesis Sentence Starters Knowledge Dumps Finding the Main Idea Concept Maps The Minute Thesis Principles Provide the Framework Facilitate Synthesis Leverage Peer Learning Small Teaching Quick Tips: Synthesis Conclusion Chapter 6 Practicing What’s the Theory? In Short Models Unpack Your Assessments Parcel Them Out and Practice Them Provide Feedback Principles Make the Time for In-Class Practice Space It Out Practice Mindfully Small Teaching Quick Tips: Practice Conclusion Chapter 7 Mapping What’s the Theory? In Short Models Year-Long Theme Writing an Objective Post an Agenda Principles Set a Timer Utilize Strong Verbs Don’t Be Afraid to Dipstick Small Teaching Quick Tips: Mapping Conclusion Chapter 8 Putting It All Together: Jennessa Burks, Grade 4 Teacher Part III Transforming: Balance and Agility Chapter 9 Growing What’s the Theory? In Short Models Reward Growth Give Growth-Language Feedback Promote Success Strategies Principles Design for Growth Communicate for Growth Feedback for Growth Small Teaching Quick Tips: Growing Conclusion Chapter 10 Motivating What’s the Theory? In Short Models Positive Recognition Tell Great Stories Invoke Self-Transcendent Purpose Share Your Enthusiasm Show Compassion Principles Acknowledge the Emotions in the Room Make It Social Let Your Enthusiasm Show Small Teaching Quick Tips: Motivating Conclusion Chapter 11 Expanding Models, Principles, and Resources Project-Based Learning Community Service Learning Games and Simulations Resources Small Teaching Quick Tips: Expanding Conclusion Chapter 12 Putting It All Together: Matt Halpern, Kindergarten Teacher and Literacy Consultant Chapter 13 Conclusion References Index EULA