Communication

As a teacher in a blended classroom, I choose discussion strategies for a high ratio of participation and practice, including

Critical Thinking

Critical thinking skills are required from the moment students walk in the room. Our daily warm-up connects our class content to current events. Questions in the last few weeks have included:
  • Would Thomas Jefferson be critical or supportive of the Japanese Emperor abdicating his throne?
  • Use the definition of government from John Locke and the founding fathers to explain why Omar al-Bashir lost power in Sudan.
  • Compare American foreign policy regarding Russia with American foreign policy in the early 1800s.

Collaboration

Students are seated in tables of 4. They often work with each other in think-pair-shares and informal discussions or writing.  More extensive collaborative assignments have included:
Ancient Civilization "Shark Tank" PBL: Students consider geography, religion, law and justice, forms of government and economics to design a civilization and attempt to convince a guest adult to invest in their efforts. Click here for a sample of a student visual aid and "Shark Tank" Pitch Script.

Creativity

I prioritize student voice and choice in my lessons.
  • American Identity Quilt: Students introduce themselves to the class by making a map with important locations. These maps form a class quilt that is displayed through the semester.
  • QUEST Project: Students choose a topic that matches their interests with American History to practice research and writing skills.