Teacher Created Materials

I often joke that one of the ways I realize I am getting older is that when I hear younger people use slang, I cringe. There is probably no greater separator of generational differences than the use of slang. Being able to validate and affirm the current generation's use of slang is a great way to relate and connect with them.

Society has come a long way in terms of becoming socially aware and accepting of all people, however we still have a ways to go. Educating ourselves and others on different backgrounds and cultures is key to accelerating awareness, understanding, and acceptance in and outside of the classroom.

November is Native American Heritage Month! In addition to teaching students about American Indian history and culture, it is important to make students aware of the reality of American Indians as contemporary people. Here are some excellent suggestions from Cherokee historian Karen Coody Cooper.

Educators have to be responsive to gender culture, national culture, socioeconomic culture, and youth culture. They must not mistake one of these cultures for another, and certainly not confuse any with race. The “rings of culture” in Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Teaching are a potential source of responsiveness.

Why does storytelling matter? How does it benefit students? Here are some insights to how storytelling can help improve struggling readers and writers, and help create a positive classroom community.

March is Women’s History Month, and it’s a great time to celebrate women through time who have made a big difference in our world. However, every student is surrounded by women who make a difference in the world today. Here’s how you can encourage students to consider the importance of women’s contributions in their own world!