Using technology will not replace the kind of interaction required of a truly communicative classroom that is guided by teacher enthusiasm and competence, the standards, and active student participation. This best practice offers ways to utilize technology to access information and enrich the classroom experience for both students and teacher.  [Lesson]
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The five strategies that are recommended by the Institute of Education Sciences: National Center for Education Evaluation and Regional Assistance to improve adolescent literacy are: Provide explicit vocabulary instruction, Provide direct and explicit comprehension strategy instruction, Provide opportunities for extended discussion of text meaning and interpretation, Increase student motivation and engagement in literacy learning, Make available intensive individualized interventions for struggli  [Lesson]
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The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) has developed a series of training modules to assist educators as they transition their English Language Arts curriculum to PA Core Standards. Each module includes a PowerPoint presentation, an accompanying script, and all handouts/graphic organizers necessary to deliver the presentation.  [Other]
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Guiding questions and possible responses to facilitate further discussions in cohort groups.  [CFG]
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Getting Students Interested presents a simplified version of Dr. John Keller’s ARCS Model of motivation. This document contains tips and tricks, study aids, and a new perspective on how to incorporate and expand the ARCS model.  [Article]
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This article defines student engagement, provides engagement strategies and structures, and incorporates constructive family and school environment essentials that are necessary to enhance student learning.  [Article]
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This white paper details the research behind the rigor and relevance framework and provides tips for using rigor and relevance in the classroom.  [Article]
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Students must be motivated to engage with literacy tasks and to improve their proficiency as readers and writers. Instruction and practice then provide the coaching and feedback necessary to gain competence. Increased competence inspires continued motivation to engage. This cycle supports improved student achievement.  [Article]
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The 21st Century Skills Framework outlines the necessary components for developing a workforce and future leaders that is grounded in core academic content and learning skills. These include (and are not limited to) creative problem-solving, communication, information literacy skills, and life and career skills.  [Article]
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Easy to read blog article defining authentic learning. The article includes real world substantive collaboration amongst eductors.  [Other]
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