Greetings!
I hope you are having both a restful and productive summer. If this is your first newsletter, it is designed to be a quick, practical read; strategies you can use tomorrow. In addition to the classroom strategies, there is a Principal's Perspective for School Leaders and Resourceful Recommendations, where you'll find my favorite resources. I hope you enjoy this issue, forward it to friends and colleagues, and contact me with any feedback or questions. The next issue will be released in mid-August.
Barbara
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Prioritizing VocabularyOne of the issues students struggle with is new vocabulary. One effective strategy recommended by Robert Marzano is to prioritize the vocabulary taught. I know it's difficult to choose which vocabulary is most important, but that's exactly what we need to do. What are the most essential words or concepts, the ones students must absolutely know to progress to the next level and to life after schooling? Before the new year starts, take a look at all the vocabulary required by the standards and the textbook. It's a bit overwhelming, isn't it? So, try to star the ones that are most valuable, and focus your time and attention on those. I'm not saying don't teach the others; I'm saying spend more time on the ones you prioritize. 
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Planning for time for teachers to meet in grade level groups, subject area departments, and across grade levels is critical as they try to prioritize vocabulary. As you work on your schedules for the upcoming year, consider how you can allow for time for teachers to work together.
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I hope you are having a restful and productive summer. Remember, you'll find activity templates, articles, podcasts, and more information about my presentations and books on my blog or on my website. No registration required, and they are all free! Finally, who do you know who might benefit from this newsletter? Please forward it to them and remind them they make a difference, just like you do!
Sincerely,
Barbara Blackburn
Blackburn Consulting Group |
