Vicki A. Davis's Blog, page 19
September 19, 2023
Research Quest: Free Middle School Science Project-Based Learning
From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis
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Are you a middle school science teacher looking to ignite your students' curiosity? Look no further than ResearchQuest, a treasure trove of free investigations that immerse students in the steps of the scientific method. From analyzing real-world artifacts to drawing their own conclusions, your students will become budding scientists. And the best part? All these res...
September 18, 2023
Encouragement in Education: Why It’s More Crucial Now Than Ever
From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis
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In this uplifting episode, we're joined by Todd Nesloney, a seasoned educator and advocate for authentic leadership in schools. This conversation is a must-listen if you've ever questioned your worth or impact as an educator. Todd delves into the transformative power of vulnerability, the importance of emotional intelligence, and why every single person in a school s...
September 13, 2023
Unboxing the Lenovo Flex 5i: The Best Chromebook for Teachers
From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis
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I’ve used many Chromebooks and purchased quite a few. I’ve always purchased Lenovo for one reason — they last. Now, I have a new, even more, durable Chromebook with a touch screen, which has become my go-to for Chromebook excellence: The Lenovo Flex 5i Chromebook. I recommend this Chromebook as the best Chromebook for teachers. Here's why.
...September 11, 2023
Teach Reading with WORD Force: Fun Games Kids Love
From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis
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WORD Force: A Literacy Adventure is an excellent tool to help improve reading. These fun, free reading games give students the foundational reading skills they need in a fun, engaging practice that you can use as an enrichment or alongside your current reading program. If you’re in elementary school, this tool is a win for you; the kids will love it. Parents will to...
The Future is Now: Preparing Our Youngest Scholars for a Digital World
From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis
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Early exposure to technology can help children develop digital literacy skills. Around 70% of kindergartners can use educational apps on tablets or smartphones. But it stands to reason that we must help students know how to effectively use these tools so they do not hinder and that they help But do they know how to use technology effectively? And how much is too muc...
September 3, 2023
New Podcast: Project-based Learning with A.I. and Improving Friendships
From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis
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In this episode, we dive deep into the transformative world of project-based learning! Our special guest, Or-Tal Kiriati from Tel Aviv, Israel, shares her innovative approach to integrating artificial intelligence and human experiences into multidisciplinary projects. From exploring the duality of human nature through literature (and a super amazing way to teach Dr. ...
August 31, 2023
Act Now to Tackle Chronic Absenteeism: Classroom Resources
From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis
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Chronic absenteeism from school is a staggering problem. We can't teach students who aren't there. This week on the newsletter, I shared resources about tackling chronic absenteeism and thought I'd put some out there for you since this is such a pervasive problem. Also, it seems that September is a key month. Let's talk about why now is the time to pay special attention to the students who are to missing school and ...
Seats of the Soul: Why Empty Chairs Matter
From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis
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Every day, I go around the classroom and greet every child by name, and I inquire about the empty chairs. If a child is out, I want the other kids to know that child is important to me. Sometimes, I'll send an email, or I might need to ask the front office where they are. But I always notice the student, and I always inquire.
Because how I treat the empty chairs is how the rest of these kids know I feel about the...
August 30, 2023
Free OECD Webinar: Back to School Issues Around the World
From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis
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I'm excited about participating as a panelist in this OECD webinar next Thursday at 14:00 Paris time / 8 a.m. Eastern and look forward to participating and joining in the conversation. The OECD Education and Skills Today webinars share global perspectives on education and skills. If you register and join in, they will have time for audience questions, so you can prepare to participate as well with an international a...
Focus On Your Noble Calling, Teacher. You Matter!
From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis
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In an old book from England entitled The Wonderful Window, we see an incredible principle:
A London clerk worked in a drab office in the rundown part of the city in an office overlooking the slums. As he observed the surroundings, he determined he would not let his outlook on life be dictated by the dreariness and hopelessness that surrounded him.
This clerk bought a beautiful, colorful Oriental window that ...
