Blogger Spotlight: Improving Student Performance in Class

Each Friday we compile a list of our favorite education posts from the week.

The 50/50 Rule: Read Ted Caron’s post about balancing literary with informational texts in the classroom.

Staying warm during “cold” reads: Timothy Shanahan explains the benefits of cold reading.

The burden of boredom: Mark Bauerlein discusses the importance of students coping with boredom in class.

Legacy of the civil rights movement: The NEH has announced their “Read more »

Today in History: The First Battle of Saratoga, featuring Benedict Arnold and Horatio Gates begins in 1777

On September 19, 1777, the Continental Army led by General Horatio Gates and his second in command, General Benedict Arnold, fought General John Burgoyne’s British Army in the First Battle of Saratoga. The battle, also known as the Battle of Freeman’s Farm, is notable for Benedict Arnold and Gates’ heated arguments over the merits of approaching the British position. Benedict Arnold was relieved of his command after the battle, and … Read more »

Today in History: George Washington lays the cornerstone to the US Capitol in 1793

On September 18, 1793, George Washington laid down the cornerstone at the US Capitol building, beginning a century-long construction project for the iconic landmark. The building’s history includes modifications to its design by several architects, a fire at the hands of the British Army, and use as both a hospital and barracks during the Civil War. 

During the early years of the nation, there was no permanent capital city. … Read more »

Today in History: US Constitution signed by 38 of 41 delegates in 1787

On September 17, 1787, 38 of the 41 present delegates at the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia signed the United States Constitution, paving the way for its adoption when nine of the 13 states ratified it. Debate over how to replace the Articles of Confederation was fierce, with sharp disagreement over the issue of state representation in Congress.

While all of the delegates at the Constitutional Convention agreed that the … Read more »

Aligning to the Common Core with our Meaning of America series

As the school year begins, educators are seeking ways to align their curriculum to the Common Core State Standards. Kathleen Porter-Magee of the Fordham Institute and the College Board outlines three elements of a curriculum properly aligned to the CC.  Read about these recommendations, and learn how our Meaning of America series accomplishes all three.

Stressing that the Common Core calls for a reevaluation of old teaching habits, … Read more »

Blogger Spotlight: Classic literature and social studies lessons

Every Friday we compile our favorite education blog posts from the week.

Can middle school students handle classic literature? David O’Shell says yes, and argues that introducing young students into the study of literature pays dividends. Plus, on his blog The Living Teacher, O’Shell explains the role of classic literature in education.

“The secret anniversaries of the heart”: Lee Ann Potter writes about the catharsis of reading and writing poetry.

Best practices in social … Read more »

September Newsletter: Celebrate Civic Awareness Month with Stories!

Our September newsletter is out. Learn about our new partnership with the free lesson-sharing site Gooru, September milestones, and our latest free lesson plans. Don’t miss another update. Sign up for our newsletter and get a free ebook!