If you’ve ever ventured to visit the Google Arts & Culture website, you’ve probably noticed that the site has an incredible collection of interesting information, photographs, and artwork from around the world. You’ve also probably thought about how you might use this website with students. Below, I’ve generated a list of 15 lesson ideas for […]
Designing a Full Unit for Your Social Studies Class
I love designing units, however, it can be a bit daunting those new to the profession. Which standards should you cover? Which standards are okay to skip? How will you make this unit fun, creative, make sure your students learn, and think, and cover the content? It’s a lot to consider. Therefore, when I create […]
10 Ways to use Pear Deck in your History Classroom
(NOTE: This is not a paid review, and I haven’t received a premium account for my review. I just really love Pear Deck.) Last year, I discovered Pear Deck, and my direct instruction hasn’t been the same since. I’ve never been a huge fan of direct instruction, and I’ve slowly removed most direct lectures from my […]
Conducting a Silent Conversation with Your History Class
I recently conducted my first “silent conversation” with my AP U.S. History classes. I’d seen the idea in several locations previously, however, I couldn’t yet conceptualize how it would work with my classes. Then, I saw a version posted by Caleb Lagerwey, a fellow APUSH teacher. His version of the silent conversation seemed perfect for […]
My Middle School Students Don’t Take Notes Anymore
Yep, it’s true! My middle school students really don’t take notes anymore. Well, at least not in the traditional sense of “notes.” When I first started teaching, I strictly adhered to the concept of notes, and notetaking, and the understanding that it was a necessary skill for students. I still think that notetaking is important, […]