Thursday, October 13, 2011

Force Field in the Classroom

I recently had the privilege to observe Alex Jarrell teach at KIPP Central City Middle School. It was immediately clear that his Kids are engaged in taking responsibility for their learning, work independently, are infused with a love of learning and a desire to think critically, and have respect for community. When I pressed him to think about how he creates this environment, one he refers to as a Force Field, here's how he describes it. (Posted with his permission):




  • Treat kids with respect

  • Select rigorous exciting text to read: They feel successful reading

  • Scaffold praise
     First, I praise them when they have gone above expectations
     Then I only praise when kids show critical thinking

  • Model enthusiasm and zest

  • I know every kid can learn

Please post specific things you do, and the way you approach teaching and learning, so our other amazing teachers can build their repertoire too.

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