Blog

The Difference Between Testing and Teaching

As a profession, we are confusing reading and writing instruction with assessment of that instruction. Many teachers strive, as I did, to insert “test-like” experiences within the context of their units to decrease…

Aesthetics: Taking Time to Notice

Recently I visited the Denver Art Museum and had an experience that has stayed with me. It was the Red, White and Bold: Masterworks of Navajo Design, 1840-1870 exhibition of Navajo chief blankets. An arresting…

Hangout with CTL: panel discussion on Next Generation Science Standards Dec 3rd, 3P EST

Please make plans to join us for a Google Hangout discussion via our YouTube channel as we bring together four experts to discuss the what, why and how of…

Outlines of Writing Success

Outlines of Writing Success

I love to write and always have. I’m not sure why, although I’m certain being an avid reader who grew up in a household of avid readers who constantly encouraged me to write down my ideas, thoughts and feelings contributed to that. I’ve also spent much of my career writing in, on and about education, […]

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Getting “Real” about the Common Core and High Expectations

Getting “Real” about the Common Core and High Expectations

The term “high expectations” has become so common in school dialogue that I sometimes wonder if we shouldn’t pause and take time to deepen our common understanding of what it truly looks like when teachers have high expectations for students. An overview of online literature about the topic can produce an array of ways to […]

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Three Focus Areas for School Leaders

Three Focus Areas for School Leaders

With endless responsibilities on their list, principals need to be very clear with teachers and other stakeholders about priorities for instruction, with attention to their cultural implications. While the task of college readiness…

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Good Sports

Good Sports

School sports, especially football, are an American high school tradition. But should they be? A recent piece in The Atlantic raises some important questions. Is there a way to balance the positives of school athletics with the…

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What is digital literacy?

What is digital literacy?

Digital literacy is the skills, knowledge, creativity and attitudes that are necessary to be able to use digital media for learning and mastering in the Knowledge Society. It is this literacy that builds a bridge between skills…

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